How to Transfer Files Faster

There are many options for transferring files but not all of them can complete file transfers quickly. When considering transfer distance length and bandwidth predicaments, the speed of file transfers can be called into question even more easily. So, what tools can organizations use to achieve file transfers at high speeds to save time and money without sacrificing core security functionality? If you want to know how to transfer large files between computers fast, you’re in the right place. 

Common Ways to Transfer Files Faster 

There are some common ways to speed up file transfer that organizations can employ. Here are a few examples: 

1. Ensure your hardware and software is up to date 
2. Use file compression 
3. Utilize file sharing solutions like Dropbox and Google Drive 
4. Use Email for file exchange 

Each of these methods will help organizations get closer to where they want to be. However, organizations can save time and avoid the hassle by using FileCatalyst to move files of any size at unprecedented speeds from anywhere in the world. 

What is FileCatalyst and How Does it Transfer Files Faster? 

The goal of FileCatalyst is to make file transfer as reliable, fast, and secure as possible for the enterprise. Keep reading to learn how to transfer files faster using FileCatalyst.  

FileCatalyst employs patented accelerated file transfer technology that uses a unique UDP based approach. This simplifies complicated large file transfers for users and provides tools for integration with existing organizational infrastructure. 

With that in mind, how do these tools work and how do you set them up for use? 

Here, we’ll break down how to set up a FileCatalyst Server and how to use FileCatalyst HotFolder, the most used FileCatalyst Client. Read on to discover how these FileCatalyst tools help you transfer files faster. 

Note: In order to set up a FileCatalyst Server or use FileCalalyst HotFolder, users will need to be given access to the setup files. 

1. How to Transfer Files Faster with FileCatalyst Server  

As you dive into how to transfer large files between computers quickly with FileCatalyst, the first step is setting up FileCatalyst Server by installing the correct files. However, there are a few things you’ll need to take care of before you do so. Users will need to verify that they are running the FileCatalyst application on a 64-bit system. Then, users will need to configure their system firewall (those unfamiliar with how should consult their IT Department), making the following ports available and open: 

• TCP on ports 21 (control connection) and 12400 (remote admin port) 
• TCP and UDP on ports 8000-8999 (data port range) 
• TCP on port 12480 when the Web admin or HTTP Servlet is being used. 

After these steps are taken, users will be prepared to install the FileCatalyst Direct Server for Windows or Linux. 

2. Running and Licensing the Application

Once you’ve installed the appropriate file and gotten things running, you’ll see a dialog box that will prompt you to enter a new license key. All that is needed for this step is to follow these instructions in the dialog box: 

1. Copy the string you received in the dialog box into an email to your account representative or to [email protected]. 
2. The account representative will reply with a license key which is entered in the field below where users acquire the original string. 
3. After the information has been entered, users can press “Activate” to commit the license key to the server 

Note: The license key can be updated if users intend to apply for a full license or to upgrade. Users can select the “Advanced” tab within the user interface, then select the “Server License” tab. After you’ve navigated to this menu, users can send the “Request String” to their FileCatalyst representative to obtain a key, then copy the key into the “License Key” field. Select “Apply” and the task is complete. 

Related Reading: Master Fast File Transfer Applications 

3. Connecting with Remote Administration Client 

In order to remotely administer FileCatalyst Server, the option must first be enabled, and the server must be licensed for the remote connection to take place. If the license is not in place only local administration will be possible. The Remote Server Administration tool is then installed on another computer (e.g., your own workstation). 

In order to allow remote administration, users should select the “Administration” tab, then select a connection port (12400 is default) and supply a username and password. Ensure that the “Enable Remote Connections” is checked and select “Apply” within the user interface. 

Users will need to configure HTTP access to allow a web browser session to administer the FileCatalyst Server. Enable “HTTP Remote Administration” to allow computers other than “localhost” to connect to the FileCatalyst Server. 

Note: It is recommended that users install an instance of the remote administration client on a separate computer (Windows or Linux) to replicate a real-world scenario. 

4. Creating and Editing Users

Administrators will want to create and edit users in order to make full use of FileCatalyst. Navigating to the “Users” menu, selecting the “User List” tab, and then selecting “Add New User” will launch a wizard menu where user information such as name, email address, password, home directory settings, and permissions can be chosen. 

Once a user has been provisioned, a number of additional changes can be made to the account, including maximum bandwidth, permissions, and passwords. 

How to Use HotFolder by FileCatalyst 

What is a FileCatalyst HotFolder? 

FileCatalyst HotFolder is the most used FileCatalyst client. Hotfolder are highly configurable directories that and provides automation, monitoring, and bandwidth management. They are also used as sources or destinations for uploads and downloads. Users will need to have one defined before creating tasks.  

Learning how to use a HotFolder can help you learn how to transfer large files fast.

1. Install HotFolder on Any Supported Platform 

As was the case for setting up a FileCatalyst Server, users should verify that they are running on a 64-bit system before running installation on Windows, Mac OSX, or Linux.  

Note: HotFolder is most effective when run as a service  

2. Create a Connection to the FileCatalyst Server 

After installation, you will be presented with the First Run Wizard which will walk you through initial steps to set up your bandwidth connection, add a site (and a HotFolder), and configure a task. Users can select “Next” until they have the option to specify expected speed of data connection for the specified device. Then a site can be added, typically the server to which a user’s FileCatalyst Hotfolder connects.  

Once the site information is confirmed, a directory is created and users can configure the task for upload or download, as well as scheduling and behavior options. Users should be given a summary and, if the settings are satisfactory, the process can be completed. 

3. Define a Directory to be Used as a HotFolder

New Sites can be added by navigating to the “Site Manager” panel followed by selecting the “Add New Site” button. This opens another window that allows users to enter a Site ID, Host IP and Port, as well as username and password. Uncheck the “Anonymous” box to enable authentication. After selecting “Finish”, the process is complete, and the site will appear in the main list. 

Note: If users are connecting to a site with unknown bandwidth characteristics, they can use auto-detect by editing the site they created.  

Related Reading: How the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) Uses HotFolders 

It’s helpful to create a directory to use for testing. Navigating to the “HotFolders” panel and selecting the “New” Button will trigger another window to open where users can enter a HotFolder ID and set a HotFolder as an existing directory. Defined HotFolders will appear in a user’s list and can be edited, deleted, or browsed from the main Control Panel. 

Adding a directory to the Defined HotFolders list does not modify it in any way. Saving or modifying files in the directory continues as usual and any existing workflow does not need to change. By defining a HotFolder, the user is simply showing the application where to find the files for transfer. 

4. Schedule Bandwidth Usage

Although FileCatalyst Server is able to impose its own bandwidth limitations on users, the HotFolder client application should also have its bandwidth usage set. By default, HotFolder uses 1 Gbps (1000000 Kbps). However, it can be edited by navigating to the “Bandwidth” tab and by selecting timeslots followed by selecting a rate for the specified timeslot. 

5. Execute an Upload Task 

From the Scheduler pane, users can add new tasks, edit or delete existing tasks, as well as execute or cancel tasks on-demand (overriding the scheduled intervals). 

Navigating to the “Scheduler” panel and selecting “New” will launch the task wizard. Task name, HotFolder, site name, and schedule settings can be edited. With the settings chosen, the task will attempt to upload files from the HotFolder to the Server during the days you define. 

6. View Transfer Activity

Monitoring activity is an important aspect of the file transfer process. Users can monitor activity by first executing a transfer if one has not already begun running. Once a task is selected, users should select the “Activity” button. Metrics such as transfer rates, time elapsed, time remaining can be viewed as well as a real-time graph showing bandwidth usage over time. Users can also view a text log of activity, including information such as file names and status of file integrity checks. 

7. Remotely Administer HotFolder 

The last step in understanding how to transfer files faster. FileCatalyst HotFolder may be administered remotely, using either a thin client or a web applet. Before you can take advantage of HotFolder Admin tool, your HotFolder must be properly licensed.  

One exception is that you may use HotFolder Admin to connect to HotFolder running as a service on the same machine. Users can enable remote administration options by navigating to the “Administration” tab. 

The Speed Difference: How to Transfer Files Faster with FileCatalyst 

FileCatalyst is all about transferring files at a high speed. Compared to traditional FTP solutions, FileCatalyst can transfer files from anywhere in the world without losing the transfer acceleration the platform is meant to enable. To get a theoretical idea of how fast files of diverse sizes can be exchanged from various locations throughout the world, organizations can experiment with the FileCatalyst Speed Calculator.