FileCloud: a Powerful SharePoint Alternative

Replacing Microsoft SharePoint with FileCloud for secure file sharing can be a strategic decision, especially if your organization values flexibility, data ownership, and a user-friendly interface. FileCloud offers similar functionalities but with unique advantages. FileCloud can replace SharePoint effectively while also making life easier for enterprise end users and IT administrators in multiple ways.

File Sharing and Collaboration

FileCloud enables easy and secure file sharing both internally and externally. It allows users to share files with role-based permissions and expiration controls. Users can create secure, password-protected links for external sharing or share files within teams, very similar to SharePoint’s internal/external sharing.

FileCloud’s integration with Microsoft 365 allows collaborative editing on familiar tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. SharePoint provides extensive integration with Microsoft Office as well, but FileCloud offers the added flexibility of working outside the Microsoft ecosystem with various third-party tools.

Additionally, the accounts of external collaborators can remain fully under the control of the organization that owns the data to ensure governed data access through the entire content lifecycle.

Ease of Use and Deployment

FileCloud offers simpler on-premises and cloud-based (hosted by FileCloud or in your own VPC) deployment options, which gives IT infrastructure and scaling flexibility without the administrative overhead required for more complex solutions.

SharePoint, especially in its on-premises version (SharePoint Server), can be resource-intensive to deploy and manage, requiring specialized SharePoint and database administrators. FileCloud’s interface is designed to be intuitive, often considered more user-friendly for end users and admins compared to SharePoint’s interface, which can have a steep learning curve.

Single & Multi-tenancy

FileCloud Server and Online support deployment as an isolated, single-tenant data layer; with a Microsoft 365 E3 subscription, enterprises must opt for the Multi-Geo add-on at an additional cost or upgrade to the E5 plan.

Similarly, for multi-site architecture, the Multi-Geo add-on is required, and multi-tenancy is not supported at all with SharePoint Server Subscription Edition. FileCloud Server deployments do support multi-tenancy, which is ideal for service providers provisioning FileCloud on behalf of their clients.

Customization & Branding

FileCloud allows for deep customization, including branding (logos, themes, and domain names) for the web, desktop and mobile clients allowing for customers do deliver a consistent and unified experience for their end users.

While SharePoint also allows for customization, more complex development work on the part of the customer is typically required (SharePoint Designer or Power Apps) as compared to the out-of-the-box custom branding that FileCloud offers along with availability of professional services for more in-depth efforts.

Offline Access and Sync

FileCloud has desktop clients for Windows and MacOS that allows for business content to be available to users offline and with the option of access without a VPN. FileCloud also offers native support for rendering and previewing a wide range of file formats including PSD and AutoCAD files, allowing for simplified access to content from anywhere.

SharePoint offers similar features through OneDrive for document syncing, but for web-based access, FileCloud provides more flexibility in terms of supporting multiple platforms and file systems. SharePoint also does not support native network folder or NTFS permissions integration; in comparison, FileCloud can function as a network storage overlay, allowing remote access and collaboration to existing network infrastructure.

Third-Party Integration

FileCloud integrates with third-party systems via REST APIs and pre-built connectors, allowing it to connect with your existing business and security software in your ecosystem. This includes your existing Microsoft productivity suite as well as Google Workspace and ecosystem protection tools such as anti-virus and CDR.

A wide range of authentication and SSO options are also available including policy based decisions on which mechanisms should be enforced on different groups of users. SharePoint requires use of Azure/Entra for user authentication. FileCloud supports Azure/Entra as well; however, through a number of included integrations, FileCloud can support a wider range of Single Sign-On (SSO) and Active Directory options.

While SharePoint also integrates with many tools in the Microsoft ecosystem, integrating with external systems might require more custom development or middleware, adding complexity.

Advanced File Management Features

FileCloud provides advanced features like:

• Smart Classification for automated content classification.
• Retention Policies to ensure documents are retained and deleted according to compliance standards.
• Detailed Activity Logs and Audits, giving administrators full visibility into file access, downloads, and edits.
• validated e-Signature and signature audit logs

SharePoint also provides document management features but may not offer the same level of visibility into file activities without additional configurations. Furthermore, these functionalities are managed through separated applications (many in Microsoft Purview, but others in Microsoft Security Copilot, Azure Rights Management, Microsoft Compliance Center, and SharePoint eSignature.)

Transition Steps from SharePoint to FileCloud:

Professional Services: FileCloud offers a wide range of customization, data migration and deployment assistance services to help customers achieve their optimized operational state as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.

Training: FileCloud’s simpler interface may reduce training needs compared to SharePoint’s complex structure, but ensuring staff are comfortable with the new system is key.

When FileCloud is a Better Fit:

• Organizations prioritizing data ownership, flexibility, and compliance.
• Companies that want more customization options without extensive development.
• Cost-conscious businesses looking for affordable but robust file sharing without the extra overhead of SharePoint Server licenses.
• Organizations that need simpler administration and user-friendly interfaces without sacrificing enterprise-level features like data governance and file versioning.

FileCloud can effectively replace Microsoft SharePoint Server for secure file sharing, particularly for organizations looking for more flexibility, security, and control over their data. It provides comprehensive security, compliance, and collaboration features while being cost-effective and easier to deploy. Organizations can enjoy a seamless user experience, maintain robust data control, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

Want to explore how the features stack up between FileCloud and SharePoint? Check out our competitive matrix!