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Researchers at Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research (MWLR) are breathing a sigh of relief with the introduction of FileSender, saying it has solved many of the data-sharing challenges that plagued them.
FileSender allows users to share files as large as 5TB in one go, simply and securely. Users simply drag and drop files into their web browser, then send a link to the recipient once they have uploaded the data. Reporting lets the sender know when content has been downloaded and it gets deleted after 15 days.
The product is now freely available to REANNZ members participating in the Tuakiri identity federation.
Manaaki Whenua were the first REANNZ member to pilot its use, trialling it for the transfer of large images, captured by drones and satellites.
Infrastructure Manager Kim Klinkhamer said previous methods of file transfer involved cloud services, public FTP and even the shipping of hard drives.
“Each of these presented their own challenges such as timeliness, access control, file-size limitation, concerns around data security and the required need for technical know-how and IT support.
“The introduction of FileSender has been a game changer. It’s easy to use with no new application to install for either the sender or receiver and its option of encryption is good for security.
“It uses single sign-on, provides reporting and meets our needs around data sovereignty. Plus, it is a practical way of transferring data to and from our clients,” he said.
Researcher Ben Jolly stressed the significance of how using Filesender freed up time.
“In the past, data sharing could take up hours of researcher’s chargeable time and often involved someone in IT helping them to make it work. The problem solving needed between the sender and the receiver was a drain on time and energy,” he said.
“With FileSender, it’s just not something we need to even think about anymore. Instead of worrying about transfer, security and ensuring our clients can access what they have paid for, in a timely manner, this has become a ‘non-task’. It’s very easy.”
While FileSender is a federated service meaning members must have Tuakiri enabled, it does offer a one-time voucher system which allows users to nominate non-Tuakiri members to send files, enabling external partners to send or receive data.
REANNZ has partnered with Catalyst Cloud ensuring data is hosted in New Zealand by a New Zealand owned and operated organization, aligning with Māori data sovereignty and Privacy Act requirements.
Since August 2024, users across the REANNZ membership have uploaded 26,000 files totalling 14.6 TB and downloaded 50,242 files totalling 11.2TB.
More information about FileSender is available on our website here, or please get in touch with the engagement team: engagement@reannz.co.nz
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