DoD SAFE is an improved version of AMRDEC, and it offers a better file transfer capacity and security measures. But for some, it cannot still upload large files and requires a CAC to access it. This is a problem for third-party contractors who work with the military, especially since obtaining a CAC can take time and CAC-holding employees can leave the organization at any moment. That’s where a DOD SAFE alternative like Sharetru comes in.
DOD SAFE addresses two usability gaps that were present with AMRDEC SAFE: file transfer size and security. The new solution enables file transfers up to 8 GB, which is a significant increase over the previous limit of 2 GB. It also features end-to-end encryption, which is an improvement over the package level encryption that was available with AMRDEC SAFE.
DOD SAFE utilizes software that was developed by the Army Research Laboratory, and the organization has plans to improve it over time. It is currently being used by DOD employees for transferring files too large to send via email. However, the requirement for a Common Access Card (CAC) can be a major bottleneck.
How to Use the DOD SAFE Portal?
For years, third-party contractors working with the U.S. Military have used a file-sharing platform called Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center Safe Access File Exchange (or AMRDEC). In 2019 AMRDEC was temporarily shut down because of security vulnerabilities, and DoD SAFE was launched to replace it.
One big limitation of DoD SAFE is that it requires a Common Access Card, or CAC. This is a card that only some employees can obtain, and the process for getting one includes sponsorship, background checks, and other requirements. Plus, if a CAC-holding employee leaves the organization, you have to deal with another arduous CAC-related process all over again.
Additionally, DoD SAFE only holds files on the site for 7 days before they’re deleted. In contrast, Sharetru allows administrators to set folder-level retention policies so that uploaded files can be stored for a longer period of time. Administrators can also set links to expire after a certain number of days or uses, or let users determine limits themselves.
DOD Safe Drop-off
Those who were familiar with the AMRDEC SAFE system will be aware that it is being discontinued, and that an upgraded version, DOD Safe Drop Off, has been created to replace it. While on the surface, it looks much like AMRDEC SAFE did, DOD Safe Drop Off has a few improvements over the old system, including end-to-end encryption to keep sensitive data secure during transfer. In addition, DOD Safe Drop Off requires that a CAC holder be involved in the transfer process. This is a significant security upgrade from the previous requirement, which was to have a CAC in the middle of the transfer.
Getting a DOD safe request code is a necessary step to access your military files. However, this process can be complicated, especially for third-party contractors. Fortunately, there are DOD SAFE alternatives that can help you get your files quickly and easily.