File Size Filters

The high cost of outsize email downloads

Email is a major transport medium for data downloaded to companies, including business data as well as unwanted content including spam and personal emails containing jokes, cartoons and video clips.

Because high data volumes can impact a company's productivity, management may decide to block emails over a certain size because:

  • Large files can slow traffic on the download link.

  • Large downloads may affect internet web site response times and increase the number of support calls from customers and staff.

  • Companies have to pay to download data.

  • Storage of large files can be expensive and may involve many employees storing multiple copies of the same non-business file (such as a cartoon sent by the original recipient to his/her peers in the company).

  • Data stored in email systems can impact email retention strategies.

In light of the above, it makes sense to implement corporate policy on file size before any increased costs are incurred.

Ideally, files should be blocked before they impact on enterprise/business resources. This can be done in the internet or alternatively, the company can simply delay the downloads to a less busy time, such as overnight.

Firstwave's Enterprise Specific protection (ESPTM) allows companies to block and temporarily store large files before they impact the network and/or enterprise productivity.

Features

  • The administrator can apply controlling filters based on file size for the entire company, mail domains or individual mailboxes.

  • Control is via an easy-to-use web interface.

  • Filters are active within minutes of being switched on or off.

  • Filtered messages can be quarantined and reviewed through the web interface.

  • Automatic release profiles can be activated for departments or employees.

  • Advanced time-based email flow controls make it possible to delay delivery of selected emails based on file types and recipients.

  • Messages can be forwarded to nominated third parties.

  • Comprehensive statistics and reporting are available online or through email reports.