encryption software

[Prasanth B]

Hi

I have to send some text files over the net to one of our clients on regular basis. Considering the fact that this data is confidential, what would be the best way to transfer file across? Looks like normal ftp sends the data as clear text. Does any one heard of PGP? Or is there any better ways of doing this?

Your suggestions will be valuable.

ta
PB

[Kofi ARTHIABAH]

Prasanth:

You did not indicate what your client has by way of hardware, and whether you want the encryption on the wire or in a store and forward-type scenario... however, here are some options:

1. use ssh and sftp ( these encrypt the traffic on the wire) http://www.datafellows.com
this can also be used to create a vpn between you and your client.

2. use PGP, like you mentioned, (useful for store and forward type transfers)
http://www.pgpI.org/doc/pgpintro/

3. Depending on your budget, you could always use crypt to encrypt your files and get them to unencrypt it when they receive it - of course you must have provided them with the password (man crypt)

4. Visit security focus http://www.securityfocus.com/
Tools -> cryptography -> data encryption for a list of tools.

[Donald Fisher]

If all you want is simple encryption use the HP-UX command crypt. There is a manual page "man crypt".

[Rick Garland]

PGP is a good piece of encryption SW. However, there is some configuration involved on your end and the recipents end.

If the message you are sending really needs to be secure, you could setup private keys within the PGP SW.