Overview
When using eXtendFiles with Amazon S3 or Microsoft Azure as your cloud storage, there are several considerations to keep in mind when sharing files using public or private links. This guide will help you understand the key differences and when you may want to choose one option over the other.
Public vs. Private Links
eXtendFiles allows you to share files using either public or private links, depending on your security needs, the duration for which you want the file to be accessible, and your cloud storage provider.
Public Links
- Accessible to anyone with the link
- No expiration date
- Ideal for long-term sharing
- Only available with Amazon S3
Private Links (Signed URLs)
- Require authentication to access
- Have an expiration date
- Available with both Amazon S3 and Microsoft Azure
Considerations for Amazon S3
When using Amazon S3 as your cloud storage, you have the option to use both public and private links.
Public Links in Amazon S3
- Ideal for sharing files that need to be accessible for more than 7 days
- Allow viewing of preview images and thumbnail images within NetSuite without going through a signed link
- Require the S3 bucket to allow public objects
Private Links (Signed URLs) in Amazon S3
- Maximum duration of 7 days
- Provide temporary, secure access to files
- Ideal for sensitive documents or short-term sharing
Considerations for Microsoft Azure
When using Microsoft Azure as your cloud storage, all files are always private, and sharing is done through signed URLs.
Private Links (Signed URLs) in Microsoft Azure
- No maximum duration limit (can be set for 9999+ days)
- Provide secure access to files
- Ideal for both short-term and long-term secure file sharing
Choosing Between Public and Private Links
When deciding between public and private links for sharing files external to NetSuite, consider the following factors:
Security Requirements
If security is a top priority, private links (signed URLs) are the better choice as they provide controlled access and can be set to expire.
Duration of Access
- For sharing less than 7 days: Both Amazon S3 and Microsoft Azure private links are suitable
- For sharing greater than 7 days:
- Amazon S3: Use public links if security allows, or generate new private links periodically. Note that generating a new private link results in a new link as the original link is no longer accessible after expiration
- Microsoft Azure: Use private links with extended expiration dates
- Amazon S3: Use public links if security allows, or generate new private links periodically. Note that generating a new private link results in a new link as the original link is no longer accessible after expiration
Frequency of Access
If the same link needs to be shared multiple times or accessed frequently, consider using:
- Amazon S3: Public links for convenience, if security permits
- Microsoft Azure: Private links with a long expiration date
External Sharing Requirements
For sharing files external to NetSuite:
- Amazon S3: Public links are more convenient for recipients but less secure
- Both Amazon S3 and Microsoft Azure: Private links offer better control and security for external sharing
Questions for Storage Selection
- What types of files do you primarily need to share through eXtendFiles? Are they specific eXtendFiles File Types?
- Are files public for a specific file type, or are they both private and public within a single file type?
- How long do you typically need shared files to be accessible?
- Do you require the ability to share files publicly (without authentication)?
- How often do you share files with users outside of your NetSuite environment?
Conclusion
Choosing between public and private links in eXtendFiles depends on your specific needs, the duration of required access, and the cloud storage provider you're using. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that your files are shared securely and efficiently, whether you're using Amazon S3 or Microsoft Azure as your storage solution.