Best, easiest, and secure way to set up FTP server

[Blunted One]

How can I allow people outside the company to have access to a folder, but nothing else in our network so they can drop of files they are working on or download new files, etc. Basically a simple FTP setup for people who will be working together on a project.

I would like some security though as I don't want other people from in our company or outside it that don't have permission to manipulate or remove/add files since they are not part of this project. Just a select few would be good...or is it better to use our VPN and set up a limited access for them to a folder(s)?

As always thanks for the help in advance.

[morganlefay]

Microsoft Share Point

http://www.microsoft.com/office/shar...o/default.mspx

Used with SQL...it has versioning.

Great product.....IMHO

MLF

[Blunted One]

Thanks for the good idea.

How about something that is much more simple? Something that requires a log in and allows people to drop off things they are working on or pick up files they want to review. A basic setup with some security and some information, but not quite that much overkill as the Share Point.

Just a basic FTP sharing app/setup.

[nihil]

Have you thought about re-deploying an old server? The reason I suggest that is because I have done it in the defence sector where contractual requirements meant that we had to keep a lot of projects physically separate.

[sec_ware]

Hi

Two ideas here (with regards to security, otherwise just use a free workgroup place service, like a few gmail-accounts I can't remember the names those free services, but once, I remember, there was a "free disk". )

1. Indeed, use VPN: I like OpenVPN[1,2]. It's extremely simple to set up and works like charm. Using a network share people can access, well, a network share within the company from outside

2. Tunnel samba over ssh[3]. Your network share will be accessible through a encrypted tunnel.

Cheers

[1] http://openvpn.net/download.html
[2] http://openvpn.se/
[3] http://antionline.com/showthread.php?t=261812

[morganlefay]

Yeah...the Share Point is deep

It can be that basic though....

and it was free with the server.....

We use it for service warranty tracking, issue tracking and versioning of engineering documents.

I am learning as I go....so I am no expert on it by any means.

Personally I like the Sharepoint.....there is security within itself also. It does not have to be open to the world...and it is web based....and can be customized to make it very user friendly.

We are looking at expanding its use.....for various reporting...dashboard style.

MLF