CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)Applications and SoftwareEasy
A user needs to share a large video file (5 GB) with a colleague who is located in a different city. The user also wants to ensure the file is encrypted during transit and at rest. Which of the following methods is MOST appropriate for meeting these requirements?
- AUploading the file to a secure cloud storage service.
- BAttaching the file to an email.
- CTransferring the file via a standard FTP server.
- DCopying the file to a USB drive and mailing it.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Uploading the file to a secure cloud storage service.
Secure cloud storage services are designed to handle large file transfers, often include encryption in transit (TLS) and at rest (AES), and provide easy sharing capabilities for remote collaborators.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Email systems typically have strict attachment size limits (e.g., 25 MB) and do not guarantee encryption at rest or in transit by default.
- C. Standard FTP does not offer encryption, making it insecure for sensitive data. SFTP or FTPS would be better but still might require more setup than cloud storage for a single file.
- D. Mailing a USB drive is slow, incurs physical security risks, and doesn't inherently encrypt the data unless manually done before copying, failing the 'during transit' encryption requirement.
Secure Cloud Storage
Online storage services that provide robust security features, including data encryption in transit and at rest, access controls, and often compliance certifications, suitable for sharing sensitive or large files.
- Encrypts data during upload/download (in transit) and while stored (at rest).
- Allows controlled sharing with specific users or groups.
- Scalable for large files and long-term retention.
Memory trick: Sending big, secret files needs a strong, digital vault.