How to send large data files online
Large data files are often shared between technical teams and require specialized transfer tools.
Who sends large data files
Large data files are often shared between researchers, engineers, and analysts.
Why specialized services are used
Because these data files can be very large, specialized file transfer services are commonly used to deliver them efficiently.
Typical data deliveries
| Field | Typical material | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Research | Measurement series, simulation output | 10 GB to several TB |
| Engineering | CAD, BIM, sensor logs | 5 to 50 GB |
| Analytics | Database dumps, event logs | 1 to 100 GB |
| Media | Image and video corpora | 50 GB and above |
| Life sciences | Sequencing and imaging data | 100 GB and above |
Sending a dataset
- Archive many small files into one package to avoid per-file overhead.
- Include a plain-text description of the structure, format, and units.
- Upload over a wired connection, ideally outside peak hours.
- Set an expiration that covers the recipient's processing time, not just the download.
- Share the link, or keep the dataset in storage if several teams will need it.
What matters in data exchange
- integrity: the delivered file must be byte-identical to the original
- documentation: a dataset without a description is difficult to reuse
- availability: processing often starts weeks after delivery
- jurisdiction: research and health data frequently must stay within the EU
- repeatability: the same dataset is often requested again later
MyAirBridge transfers reach 250 GB on Pro and are unlimited on Enterprise, with storage kept in regional data centres in the EU, the United States and Asia.
FAQ
Why are large datasets not usually sent by email?
They are orders of magnitude beyond attachment limits, and email would also alter or block many of the file types involved.
Who typically transfers large datasets?
Researchers, engineers, analysts, and life science teams, often across institutions in different countries.
How large a dataset can be transferred?
Up to 250 GB per transfer on Pro, and without a limit on Enterprise.
Summary
Datasets need delivery that preserves integrity, carries documentation, and remains available long enough for processing to start. Archiving small files, transferring over stable connections, and keeping data in the user's own region cover the practical requirements of research and engineering exchange.