How can you secure CAD data when sharing with external partners or clients?

1 Use encryption and passwords

One of the simplest and most effective ways to secure CAD data is to encrypt and password-protect your files before sending them to external parties. Encryption scrambles the data so that only authorized users with the correct password can access it. You can use built-in encryption features in your CAD software, or use third-party tools or services that offer encryption and password protection. Make sure you use strong passwords and share them securely with your intended recipients.

2 Choose a reliable file transfer method

Another important factor to consider when sharing CAD data is the file transfer method. You want to avoid using email attachments, unsecured cloud storage, or public file sharing platforms that can expose your data to hackers, malware, or unauthorized users. Instead, you should use a secure file transfer method that offers encryption, authentication, access control, and audit trails. For example, you can use a dedicated CAD collaboration platform, a secure FTP service, or a VPN connection.

3 Apply data rights management

Data rights management (DRM) is a technology that allows you to control how your CAD data is used, viewed, copied, printed, or modified by external parties. DRM can help you enforce your IP rights, prevent data leakage, and comply with regulations. You can apply DRM to your CAD files using your CAD software, or use a third-party DRM solution that integrates with your CAD software. DRM can also allow you to revoke access, track usage, and monitor activity of your CAD data.

4 Reduce file size and complexity

Another way to secure CAD data is to reduce the file size and complexity of your CAD files before sharing them. This can help you minimize the amount of data that is exposed, speed up the file transfer process, and avoid compatibility issues. You can reduce file size and complexity by using compression, simplification, or conversion tools that can remove unnecessary details, reduce polygons, or convert your CAD files to a different format. For example, you can use a CAD viewer or a 3D PDF converter to create lightweight and interactive versions of your CAD files.

5 Use watermarking and stamping

Watermarking and stamping are techniques that allow you to add visible or invisible marks or labels to your CAD files to indicate ownership, confidentiality, or status. Watermarking and stamping can help you deter unauthorized copying, distribution, or modification of your CAD data, as well as provide evidence of origin or authenticity. You can use watermarking and stamping features in your CAD software, or use third-party tools or services that can apply watermarks or stamps to your CAD files.

6 Educate and communicate with your partners or clients

Finally, one of the most important aspects of securing CAD data is to educate and communicate with your external partners or clients about the best practices and policies for handling your CAD data. You should establish clear and mutual expectations, agreements, and guidelines for sharing, accessing, using, and deleting your CAD data. You should also provide training, support, and feedback to your partners or clients on how to use the tools and methods that you use to secure your CAD data. By educating and communicating with your partners or clients, you can build trust, respect, and collaboration.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?