With the recent passage of the CMMC Final Rule, many defense contractors have been reminded of the requirement to ensure the secure exchange of their files containing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). One popular solution used by the Department of Defense (DoD) is DoD SAFE (Secure Access File Exchange).
Unfortunately, users have reported DoD SAFE downtime and accessibility issues, raising concerns about reliability and leading them to search for alternative solutions. If you rely on DoD SAFE for secure file transfers, find out why it may be down, its disadvantages and what other file sharing solutions are available to maintain data security and compliance.
What is DoD SAFE?
DoD SAFE is a web-based secure file exchange system used by the U.S. Department of Defense and its partners to transmit sensitive but unclassified information such as CUI. It replaced the AMRDEC SAFE system and provides a secure platform for transferring large files up to 8GB in size.
Key features of DoD SAFE include:
- Encrypted file transfers
- Two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Secure access for authorized personnel
- Automatic file expiration after a set period
- A simple, web-based interface requiring no special software installation
DoD SAFE is widely used by military personnel, defense contractors, and government agencies to ensure that sensitive files are transferred securely and remain protected from unauthorized access. However, when the system experiences downtime, users are left searching for secure, compliant, easy-to-use alternatives.
Why is DoD SAFE Down?
There are several reasons why DoD SAFE might be unavailable, including:
1. Scheduled Maintenance
DoD SAFE undergoes routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and security. If you attempt to access the platform during scheduled downtime, you may experience temporary unavailability.
2. High Traffic and Server Overload
DoD SAFE is used by a vast number of government employees and contractors. During peak times, a sudden influx of users can overload the system, leading to slow performance or temporary outages.
3. Cybersecurity Threats and System Patching
As a platform handling sensitive data, DoD SAFE is a prime target for cyber threats. To counter potential attacks, security updates and emergency patches may be deployed, temporarily causing service disruptions.
4. Poor User Experience
DoD SAFE is known for having a clunky interface, and long load times. Because of this poor user experience, it might make it feel like DoD SAFE is down, even if it’s still working
If you’re unable to access DoD SAFE, it’s essential to have alternative file-sharing solutions that meet the strictest security and compliance requirements.
Considerations for Selecting File Sharing Solutions
When selecting an alternative to DoD SAFE, consider the following factors:
- Security: We recommend a Zero-Trust approach that assumes a breach is inevitable. There is a mandate to bring the government on to Zero Trust platforms, but some solutions already incorporate this approach into their technology.
- Compliance: Must meet strict DoD compliance requirements (e.g., if it’s a cloud service provider, it must meet FIPS 140-2, FedRAMP Moderate or Equivalent, and DFARS 7012 paragraphs c-g).
- Ease of Use: A simple and intuitive interface minimizes training time and adoption challenges.
- Integration: The solution should integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure and security tools.
- Support and Reliability: Opt for providers with strong uptime records and responsive customer support.
When DoD SAFE is unavailable, defense contractors need a reliable, encrypted file-sharing solution.
PreVeil for Contractor-to-Contractor CUI Sharing
PreVeil Drive enables encrypted cloud file storage and sharing from any device, while ensuring compliance with the most stringent DoD standards. Here are a few reasons why PreVeil is a great choice for sharing CUI:
- Unmatched Security: Unlike DoD SAFE, which operates as a centralized file transfer system, PreVeil protects your files with end-to-end encryption, ensuring only authorized users can access data—even if servers, passwords, or admins are compromised.
- Simplified Compliance: PreVeil Drive meets CMMC, NIST 800-171, ITAR, DFARS, FERPA, and CJIS requirements. Built-in compliance features streamline adherence, reducing complexity and effort.
- Integrations with Existing Workflows: PreVeil’s encrypted cloud storage and email system seamlessly integrates with the platforms you use today, like Outlook, Gmail, and File Explorer. This reduces the need for complex user training or disruptive changes to operations.
- Consistent Updates and Optimizations: DoD SAFE is a government service that has not had many updates since it was launched in 2020. PreVeil is being consistently updated to provide a more seamless and secure file sharing service for its users. It’s a future-proof solution for aerospace and defense contractors.
- Inclusive of All Users: While DoD SAFE only is available to government employees and prime contractors, PreVeil also allows subcontractors to receive and send secure files.
Conclusion
While DoD SAFE serves a critical role for direct DoD communications, defense contractors need reliable, secure solutions for contractor-to-contractor file sharing. PreVeil meets the highest security and compliance requirements, so you can maintain data protection and operational efficiency, even if DoD SAFE is down. Contact Us to learn how PreVeil can help you share files securely with your supply chain.