Review Summary: Tresorit stands out in the cloud storage market with its strong emphasis on security and privacy. It uses end-to-end encryption and follows a zero-knowledge policy, ensuring that even Tresorit’s staff cannot access your data. Coupled with Swiss privacy laws, this makes Tresorit highly reliable for those concerned about data breaches.
While Tresorit’s encryption process may slightly slow performance compared to competitors and its pricing is higher than some alternatives, the trade-offs are acceptable and justified for users who prioritize enhanced security and top-tier privacy.
Tresorit is a premium cloud storage service that prioritizes security over everything else. Featuring end-to-end zero-knowledge encryption of your data, Tresorit is one of the best cloud storage for security purposes and is tailored for individuals and businesses.
Founded in 2011 and being one of the fastest growing cybersecurity companies in Europe, more than 13000 companies have been using Tresorit to protect confidential data and share information securely. So much so that Tresorit is being used worldwide by Government organizations and financial institutions.
In recent years, companies have significantly heightened their focus on data security, driven by the increasing frequency and severity of cyber breaches. This trend is underscored by the fact that 46% of all cyber breaches impact businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees, as highlighted in Verizon’s 2021 Data Breach Investigations Report. Smaller businesses, often perceived as easier targets due to potentially less robust security measures, are facing growing threats, prompting a shift in security priorities.
But that’s not it. According to VMware Carbon Black’s report on Healthcare Cyber Heists in 2019, 45% of healthcare organizations that were attacked had data destruction as the primary motive, with a staggering 66% targeted by ransomware attacks in the past year. These attacks not only jeopardize patient confidentiality but also disrupt essential medical services, prompting healthcare providers to implement stringent security protocols.
Fun Fact: Tresorit has never been hacked to date.
In this article, I will conduct an in-depth analysis of Tresorit, exploring all its features and offerings. We will thoroughly discuss each element to understand why so many companies favor Tresorit over other cloud storage services.
Tresorit Review
- Secure end-to-end data encryption employing AES-256 and TLS protocols
- Extensive storage capacity for managing large volumes of files
- Compatibility across Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iOS, and leading web browsers
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) support for enhanced security
- Tailored plans catering to individual, team, and enterprise needs
- Access to comprehensive administrative reports and analytics.
- Secure document exchange with external users through the File Request feature
- Rigorously tested third-party security with multiple industry certifications – GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, TISAX, FINRA, ITAR compliant
- Precise control over synchronization, including recovery of deleted versions
- Seamless synchronization across all devices and web browsers
The bottom line is that Tresorit is all about security and it clearly shows.
Pros and Cons of Tresorit
- End-to-end encrypted with AES-256, TLS
- GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, TISAX, FINRA, ITAR compliant
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Outlook and Gmail Integration
- Secure file exchange feature with external users
- Supported platforms include Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iOS, major web browsers
- Expensive
- Slow Sync
- No Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace Integration
Tresorit Key Features – SecureCloud
Like a lot of cloud storage services, Tresorit SecureCloud is a feature where it operates as a virtual hard disk stored in the cloud. You can save local storage space by syncing your files directly in the virtual Tresorit SecureCloud.
The best part? The Tresorit SecureCloud acts like a local drive where you can directly Copy/Paste your files and you’ll never have to worry about visiting their website and going through the tedious process of signing in.
Upon creating your account, the Tresorit SecureCloud folder is automatically added. However, you must activate it by locating it in Finder on Mac or File Explorer on Windows.
However, locally synced files pose a security risk—situations where data breaches in the event of device loss or theft are highly common. There are also cases where continuously syncing files to your computer can strain office bandwidth and device storage.
To combat these problems, Tresorit SecureCloud streamlines workflow by enabling direct access and editing of cloud-only files from the Windows and Mac file browsers, without requiring downloads or syncing. It ensures that team files remain end-to-end encrypted on servers, allowing colleagues easy access via their file manager whenever necessary.
Tresorit Key Features – Sync
Tresorit’s sync features are well thought out, granting users precise control over their data while ensuring seamless accessibility across various devices and web browsers. So much so that you can even retrieve previous versions if needed. Whether it’s recovering accidentally deleted files or reverting to a previous version, Tresorit ensures that your data remains intact and under your control.
Tresorit even offers a selective sync option, allowing you to choose which subfolders you want to sync on your computer. This feature gives you the flexibility to prioritize certain files or folders for synchronization, conserving storage space and bandwidth while ensuring that only the most relevant data is readily available on your device.
And lastly, when it comes to sharing, you can directly share a folder with another Tresorit user by inviting them to access a specific folder. For non-Tresorit users, you can share files or folders by sending them a secure link, ensuring that your data remains protected even when shared with external parties.
Tresorit Key Features – eSign
Tresorit’s eSign is a nifty feature that streamlines the entire process of obtaining secure digital signatures on PDF documents. It is a paid feature only available for both individuals as well as business accounts.
To create an eSign request, you’ll have to navigate to the dedicated tab on the left side of your Tresorit account. The document to be signed must be a PDF with designated signature areas; otherwise, the process may fail. After selecting the document, you can input the necessary email addresses for the recipients and can also choose to add yourself as the signer.
eSign is particularly beneficial for those who frequently handle non-disclosure agreements, contracts, or sales agreements, offering a fast and user-friendly solution.
The eSign add-on ensures the safe and secure sending and signing of PDF documents. Tresorit automatically encrypts the file upon creation, enhancing security without requiring an additional password. You can set an expiration date for the eSign request, ranging from one day to 999 days. Once the request is created, a link is generated that can be sent directly to the required signatories.
Tresorit Key Features – SwissID Sign
SwissID Sign is similar to the eSign feature in the same vein as electronic signatures. But when it comes to SwissID Sign, it is a valuable tool to ensure the highest level of security and compliance.
Unlike eSign, SwissID Sign provides access to a qualified electronic signature (QES), which legally holds the same weight as a handwritten signature. It isn’t necessary for all users and is designed for specific scenarios where a qualified signature is required. This feature is particularly beneficial if you need the legal equivalence of a handwritten signature or require instant verification of signatures.
If you need regular signatures on not-so-important documents, then the eSign feature should suffice.
However, I would like to point out that the eSign and SwissID Sign are paid Add-ons and are not part of the default paid features.
Tresorit Key Features – Email Integration
Coming on to the most promoted feature of Tresorit, The Email Encryption. This feature, available as a paid add-on, allows users to encrypt not only email attachments but also the contents of the emails themselves. With this add-on, you can share confidential information and attachments securely with a single click, providing a seamless and secure communication channel.
Email Encryption is pretty simple requiring no key exchange, additional software, or convoluted workflows, making security accessible and straightforward for all users. This ease of use ensures that both internal and external stakeholders can adopt the service with minimal pushback, maintaining a smooth recipient experience.
For those without the paid add-on, Tresorit still offers Outlook integration that encrypts the attachments uploaded to outgoing emails, providing a basic level of security. However, to fully encrypt the entire email content, the add-on is necessary, ensuring comprehensive protection of your sensitive information.
Tresorit Key Features – High-End Security
Like I said earlier, Tresorit’s data security is one of the strongest in the industry. It employs AES-256 end-to-end (zero-knowledge) encryption, ensuring that your encrypted data remains inaccessible to anyone unless you explicitly grant them access. Also, Tresorit clients benefit from an extra layer of security through the use of a Message Authentication Code (MAC) for each file. This code is generated by the client and is shared only with those who have access to the file, but it is not stored by Tresorit. This mechanism ensures that file integrity and authenticity are maintained exclusively between the client and authorized users.
The decryption of files is solely possible with a user’s unique decryption key, reinforcing Tresorit’s zero-knowledge approach. This means that not even Tresorit’s staff can access your files. While this approach significantly enhances security by preventing unauthorized access from hackers or law enforcement, it also means that if you lose your decryption key, your data is irretrievably lost.
It’s important to note that Tresorit and its client apps are not open-source. There’s no way to prove whether their end-to-end encryption works or not. However, back in 2019, Tresorit underwent an independent security audit by Ernst & Young, which included a thorough review of the platform’s source code. The audit confirmed that Tresorit’s security measures effectively protect customer data as claimed, providing an additional layer of trust and verification for users.
Tresorit Interface
Upon first opening the client apps, a guided tour is provided to help new users get acquainted with the features and layout, enhancing the user experience right from the start. Not to forget that interface design is simple, clean, fresh, and modern.
On macOS, the desktop client can be used for tasks like file activity tracking, and sharing and perform some integration capabilities. One feature that I highly appreciated was that I could embed Tresorit into the native file manager system – Finder. This integration was pretty intuitive and I’m sure Mac users will be a fan of this.
When it comes to Windows 11, the Tresorit client app created a virtual mounted volume with the drive letter ‘T’. This setup allows users to easily place files into their Root Tresor or upload them directly via the desktop client. This virtual drive system enhances the ease of use and accessibility, making file management straightforward and efficient.
The Tresorit mobile apps stand out for their intuitive design with a user experience reminiscent of Dropbox. You can now access and share files on the go which is a pretty straightforward and efficient process. The apps for Android and iOS also support automatic uploads of photos and videos, streamlining the process of backing up mobile content to the cloud.
There’s also an option to secure the app using a passcode or biometric authentication, which can be different from the device’s main access code. This adds an extra layer of protection for your files.
The web interface maintains this simplicity and functionality, providing an uncluttered experience where everything is easy to locate and use. You also have the flexibility to keep files solely on the web, avoiding automatic synchronization with local devices and thus offering more control over local storage usage.
Tresorit Pricing
Tresorit has different versions of paid plans for individuals, businesses, and professionals as well. Their basic plan is free and offers 5GB Storage with a maximum upload limit of up to 500 MB per file.
For the full cloud storage, after a 14-day free trial, you’ll need to pay $13.99 a month for 1TB of storage or $33.99 a month for 4TB.
On the business side, your options are $19 per user per month for 2TB each. Professional plans are meant for freelancers, consultants, or entrepreneurs wherein it costs around $27.49 for 4TB of storage.
For larger organizations, Tresorit provides customizable Enterprise Plans. These plans cater to companies with at least 50 users, offering scalable storage solutions based on specific needs. To get a tailored quote for an Enterprise plan, you will have to contact Tresorit directly.
Tresorit also offers an end-to-end email encryption add-on for business users who use the desktop version of Microsoft Outlook on Windows. This feature costs $7.50 per user per month and can be added to any of the business subscriptions. Unfortunately, this feature is an Add-on only and not a default paid feature.
However, if you are looking for a discount, I suggest paying annually rather than monthly. All Tresorit plans, including those with the email encryption add-on, offer an approximate 20% discount if paid annually. This discount applies across all tiers, making the annual payment option the most cost-effective choice for users.
Cons of Tresorit
Tresorit is Expensive
One of the common criticisms of Tresorit is that it is too expensive. All the other cloud storage is generally cheaper and offers more storage for a much lower price. However, I believe Tresorit’s pricing is fully justified due to the level of privacy and security they provide. Tresorit is the best cloud storage when it comes to security and has made a name for itself.
In contrast, many regular cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive offer lower prices because they do not provide the same level of encryption, privacy, and compliance features. These services often prioritize user convenience and additional functionalities like productivity tools over stringent security measures. For example, while they might offer file encryption, it is not typically end-to-end, meaning that the service provider can access the data under certain conditions.
Thus, while Tresorit’s pricing might seem high, it reflects the costs associated with providing top-notch security and privacy features that are essential for users handling sensitive information. For businesses and individuals who prioritize these aspects, the investment in Tresorit is justified by the level of protection and peace of mind it offers.
No Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace Integration
Being a cloud storage service that is most commonly used for business purposes, it’s a huge bummer that Tresorit does not support Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace integration. This lack of integration can pose significant challenges for businesses that rely heavily on these productivity suites for their daily operations. Without seamless connectivity to Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, users miss out on the convenience of directly accessing, editing, and collaborating on documents stored in Tresorit using their preferred office applications. This can lead to inefficiencies and extra steps in workflows, as employees have to download files, edit them offline or in separate applications, and then re-upload them to Tresorit.
And I’m not done yet. In recent years Microsoft and Google have introduced a lot of services that provide secondary support and tend to increase workflow a lot. The absence of these integrations means that businesses cannot leverage the advanced collaboration and communication tools offered by Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace within the Tresorit environment. Features like real-time co-authoring, integrated chat, and calendar management are crucial for maintaining productivity and smooth communication in a modern business setting. Consequently, organizations may find themselves forced to use multiple platforms simultaneously, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming.
Slow Sync
Tresorit is notoriously slow to sync. So much so that it tends to slow down productivity. This can be particularly frustrating for teams who rely on quick access to shared documents and real-time collaboration. Slow syncing means longer waiting times for file updates, leading to workflow bottlenecks and missed deadlines. It can also cause version control issues, where multiple team members might end up working on outdated files.
What does Reddit say about Tresorit?
Reddit is a micro-blogging website where hundreds of anonymous users hop online and discuss various things. From movies, games, and music to travel, work, life, and a lot more. If something’s on your mind and Google isn’t providing the answers, chances are you’ll discover what you need on Reddit. There are plenty of subreddits where folks talk about their favorite products too.
I’ve scoured through Reddit to see what Redditors think about Tresorit. Authentic reviews by real folks. None of the marketing stuff.
When asked how Tresorit compares to Google Drive, here’s what a couple of Redditors had to say:
‘I would strongly recommend against using Google as your cloud storage just based on privacy concerns alone.
I use Tresorit a few reasons. Fist, based in Switzerland. so max privacy. Second, you can have the most granular control over your security settings. You can control sharing and even what platforms (IOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Web) are allowed to access. For example, unless I have a specific need I allow only Linux to access. No web access or others. Also, you can restrict access by IP address. My only complaint about Tresorit is they do not have a recovery code capability. So, if you fumble a password change somehow, that the end, you can’t recover. Use a solid password manager like Keeper that can SECURELY remember some password history. Also, Tresorit does not support Yubikey so all you have for 2FA is an authenticator app. Use one where you can disable adding new devices such a Authy. Trsorit does offer a desktop app and file system integration on Windows Mac and Linux. I’m a Linux guy so I like that. Any questions, reply and I’ll tell you what I can.’ – u/stevenojefferies
‘Yes, I can pay for that extra and that’s why I subscribed tresorit. Mega Dropbox and Google just make me sick when it comes to privacy.’ – u/Big-Lime4368
‘Its incredible, IMO. Their commitment to security is very well documented on their site, and their access control and logging are great signs of that.
I trust it enough to store my keypass databases in there, alongside my PGP. Something I certainly wouldn’t trust with the likes of google or dropbox.
However it is a very expensive service, and I have not justified spending that much to get the extra storage, that I’d sinply fill up with less security intensive things like photos.
The 3gb free plan is more than enough for saving your security keys and documents.
Also, the use of 3x encryption at rest clientside, in transit, and at rest serverside, is very computationally intensive, and utilizes a lot of system resources. So that’s also something to consider.’ – u/deleted
How Swiss Post’s Acquisition of Tresorit Led to Further Boost in its Data Security
Swiss Post, the national postal service of Switzerland, acquired Tresorit back in 2021. As a globally trusted company, Swiss Post operates in 25 countries and employs more than 54,000 people worldwide. In 2020, the Universal Postal Union, a United Nations agency, named Swiss Post the “best postal operator in the world” for the fourth consecutive year.
Swiss Post’s stringent privacy standards complement Tresorit’s zero-knowledge encryption model, ensuring that only users can access their data and enhancing overall data privacy and confidentiality. Additionally, Swiss Post’s adherence to Swiss data protection regulations, among the strictest in the world, helps support Tresorit in meeting international compliance standards such as GDPR, thereby reinforcing its security even more.
This integration with Swiss Post provides Tresorit access to an advanced digital infrastructure, security protocols, and state-of-the-art data centers. Coupled with the fact that there’s a pretty sizeable investment from Swiss Post, Tresorit further pushes its boundaries with continuous improvement in encryption algorithms, threat detection systems, and other vital security measures.
Tresorit FAQs
Q: How secure is Tresorit?
A: Tresorit uses end-to-end encryption to ensure that only the user has access to their data. This means files are encrypted on the user’s device before they are uploaded and only decrypted on the user’s device when they are accessed.
Q: What type of encryption does Tresorit use?
A: Tresorit uses AES 256-bit encryption for data at rest and TLS for data in transit. This is one of the highest standards of encryption available.
Q: Can Tresorit access my files?
A: No, Tresorit cannot access your files. Due to the end-to-end encryption, only you have the keys to decrypt your data.
Q: Is Tresorit compliant with GDPR?
A: Yes, Tresorit is fully compliant with GDPR, ensuring that European users’ data privacy rights are protected.
Q: Does Tresorit comply with HIPAA regulations?
A: Yes, Tresorit complies with HIPAA regulations, making it a suitable choice for healthcare providers needing to protect patient information.
Q: What platforms does Tresorit support?
A: Tresorit is available on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also offers web access for convenience.
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