4shared is an easy online file sharing service with a specific focus on sharing videos, music and photos. These are all file types that can be too large to attach to an email. However, the 2GB maximum file size – the smallest of any file-sharing site we reviewed – certainly doesn’t allow you to share many types of large files. In addition, the maximum bandwidth for sharing large files is only 100GB. This bandwidth can add up quickly. If you share a 2GB file with five people, this will account for 12GB of your monthly bandwidth quota – 2GB for the initial upload and 10GB for each subsequent download.Another flaw with 4shared is the inability to synchronize files with other computers. You can access your uploaded files from any computer but there isn’t an option to create a folder that automatically syncs the files when you save changes. However, you can access and share files via mobile apps, which are available for iOS, Android, Blackberry and Symbian devices. If a client needs a file while you’re at lunch, you can easily access your account and share the file.
The major flaw with 4shared is the lack of file encryption for secure file sharing. Most file sharing websites will encrypt your files using an industry standard 256-bit AES encryption. Without encrypted files, a hacker who gains access to the servers can easily view the content of your files. The only encryption used to protect your account is with usernames and passwords. The only security features protecting your files are firewalls, virus scanners and password protection for share links.
4shared also lacks many file-tracking features. You can track a file’s history and set folder permissions with the share folders, but you can’t customize user bandwidth or require that recipients verify their identities. In addition, you can set share link expirations. Creating a share link will remain active until you delete the file from the server.