Macintosh Client and a Windows Server
Transfer Files Between a Macintosh Client and a Windows Server.
This article applies to: Managed Servers
Note: This page outlines secure methods for transferring files between a Macintosh client and a Windows server. If you are transferring files between other systems, please see the Choose a File Transfer Protocol page to find the secure method that's right for your needs.
| Recommended File Transfer Options | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SFTP/SCP (Always encrypted) | FTP over SSL (FTPS) (Always encrypted) | Microsoft File Sharing (SMB/CIFS) | ||
| Mac Client & Windows Server | X | |||
What is Microsoft File Sharing (SMB/CIFS)?
Warning: Do not use this option for confidential data.
Microsoft File Sharing (using the underlying SMB/CIFS protocol) is a software application that allows Windows or Macintosh and Unix computers to interact with each other. It creates a connection from the Win/Mac client to the server, allowing you to see directories on the server as if they were on the client computer.
Microsoft File Sharing (SMB/CIFS) is not encrypted over the network. For the transfer of confidential data, Microsoft File Sharing (SMB/CIFS) is not allowed. Policy 5.10, Information Security, classifies as confidential any of the following data elements when they appear in conjunction with an individual’s name or other identifier:
- Social Security number
- Credit card number
- Driver’s license number
- Bank account number
- Protected health information, as defined by HIPAA
If you are unsure which protocol to use instead, send e-mail to systems-support@cornell.edu. The Systems Support group will work with you to find a secure solution.
Client Setup and File Transfer
For step-by-step instructions for transferring files using Microsoft File Sharing, see File Transfer Using Microsoft File Sharing.
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