Sending a confidential document by email is like sending a postcard: anyone can read it along the way. The file gets copied across multiple servers, stored in the recipient\'s inbox, potentially archived and indexed. kDrive offers a much more secure alternative for sharing professional files.
The Limits of Email File Sharing
Email remains the number one reflex for sending files. Yet this habit presents several issues.
File Size
Most email servers limit attachment sizes to 10-25 MB. Impossible to send an image-heavy presentation, a training video, or large technical drawings.
Some work around this limit by using services like WeTransfer, but these free services have their own drawbacks: data hosted in the United States, temporary retention, ads, download limits.
Multiplication of Copies
When you send a file by email, it gets copied in several places: your "Sent" folder, the recipient\'s inbox, possibly their archives, email server backups. If the file is confidential, that\'s as many exposure points.
And if you need to send an updated version, you create new copies. The recipient ends up with multiple versions without knowing which one is current.
No Control After Sending
Once the email is sent, you lose all control. Impossible to revoke access if circumstances change, impossible to know if the file was opened or forwarded to other people.
kDrive: Smart Sharing
kDrive is Infomaniak\'s cloud storage service. Beyond simple storage, it offers advanced sharing features that address the limitations of email.
Link Sharing
Instead of sending the file itself, you send a link to the file hosted on kDrive. The recipient clicks and accesses the document without it being copied to their mailbox.
Immediate benefits:
- No size limit – Share files of several GB
- Single version – Update the file, the link always points to the latest version
- Maintained control – You can revoke access at any time
Link Security Options
kDrive allows you to finely configure each sharing link:
kDrive Security Options
- Password protection – The link alone isn\'t enough, a password is also required
- Expiration date – The link becomes inactive after the set date
- Download limit – The file can only be downloaded a certain number of times
- Restricted access – Limit access to specific email addresses
- Read-only / Edit – Control whether the recipient can modify the file
Upload Link (Drop Box)
Sometimes you need to receive files. Instead of asking for an email, create a kDrive upload link. Your contacts can upload files without seeing the contents of your folder.
This is ideal for:
- Collecting job applications (CVs, cover letters)
- Receiving client documents (invoices, supporting documents)
- Centralizing contributions to a project
Creating a Secure Share Step by Step
Let\'s see how to share a file securely with kDrive in practice.
Select the file
In the kDrive interface (web or app), right-click the file or folder to share. Select "Share".
Choose the sharing type
Public link (anyone with the link) or restricted access (only specific users). For external sharing, a public link with password is usually the right choice.
Configure security
Enable password protection. Set an appropriate expiration date (7 days for a one-time document, longer for recurring sharing).
Set permissions
View only or allow downloading? Ability to edit the document? Adjust according to your needs.
Share the link and password
Copy the link and send it by email. Send the password through a different channel (SMS, phone) for enhanced security.
Professional Use Cases
Here are some situations where kDrive sharing is particularly relevant.
Sending a Quote or Business Proposal
Instead of sending a PDF attachment, share a password-protected kDrive link. You keep control: if the prospect doesn\'t follow up, disable the link. If you need to update the proposal, modify the file without sending another email.
Delivering Work to a Client
Delivering mockups, reports, source files? Create a shared folder for that client. Add deliverables as you go. The client accesses everything from a single link, with delivery history.
Collecting New Employee Information
A new employee needs to provide bank details, ID, diplomas. Create an upload link and send it to them. They upload their documents directly to your kDrive, bypassing unsecured email.
Collaborating on a Document with an External Contractor
An external contractor needs to contribute to a document? Share it in edit mode. You work on the same version, with modification history. No more version ping-pong by email.
Sharing Best Practices
To maximize the security of your shares, adopt these best practices.
Always Password-Protect Sensitive Files
A link can be forwarded, copied, or found in a browsing history. A password adds an essential layer of protection for confidential documents.
Always Set an Expiration Date
A link without expiration stays active indefinitely. Make it a habit to set a validity period, even a generous one (30 days, 90 days). You can always extend it if needed.
Send the Password Through a Different Channel
If you send the link and password in the same email, an attacker who intercepts the email has everything they need. Send the link by email and the password by SMS or phone.
Regularly Clean Up Active Shares
kDrive displays a list of all your active sharing links. Do regular audits and disable those that are no longer needed.
Use Folders Rather Than Individual Files
Rather than creating a link per file, group files into a folder and share the folder. It\'s easier to manage and you can add files without recreating a link.
kDrive vs Alternatives
How does kDrive compare to other sharing solutions?
| Criteria | kDrive | WeTransfer | Google Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hosting | Switzerland | Netherlands/USA | USA |
| Password | Yes | Pro only | No |
| Expiration | Configurable | 7 days (free) | No |
| Upload limit | Depends on plan | 2 GB (free) | Depends on plan |
| Collaborative editing | Yes | No | Yes |
| Email integration | kSuite | No | Gmail |
kDrive offers the best balance between features and security, with the added advantage of Swiss hosting that guarantees the confidentiality of your files.
Integration with Infomaniak Email
If you use kSuite, kDrive integrates naturally with your email. When composing an email, you can insert a kDrive link instead of a traditional attachment. The recipient clicks and accesses the file without overloading mailboxes.
This integration also lets you configure default behavior: automatically convert large attachments into kDrive links, for example.
Conclusion
File sharing by email is a persistent but outdated habit. Cloud storage solutions like kDrive offer a safer, more flexible, and more professional alternative.
With kDrive, you keep control of your files: who accesses them, for how long, with what permissions. Your confidential documents remain hosted in Switzerland, protected by the strictest privacy laws.
The time spent learning new habits is an investment that quickly pays off in security and efficiency.
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