Sharing files through Google Drive is convenient — until you realize Google can access everything you upload. Google scans files for policy enforcement and can hand them over in response to legal requests. If you need to send files that stay truly private, RocketShare's zero-knowledge encryption ensures no one but you and your recipients can see them.
At a glance
| RocketShare | Google Drive | |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | Zero-knowledge (AES-256-GCM) | Server-side (Google holds keys) |
| Who can access files | Only you and your recipients | Google can access and scan files |
| Primary use | Secure file transfers | Cloud storage & collaboration |
| Free tier | 4 GB/month transfers, 10 transfers | 15 GB storage (shared with Gmail & Photos) |
| Paid plans from | $3/month | $6/user/month (Workspace Starter) |
| Auto-expiry | 3–90 days | No (manual deletion) |
| Password protection | Yes | No |
| Account required (recipient) | No | Recommended |
| Data location | Amsterdam, EU | Global (primarily US) |
How the encryption differs
RocketShare encrypts every file with AES-256-GCM using 256-bit keys generated by the Web Crypto API — directly in your browser. The encryption key is embedded in the URL fragment (the part after #), which per RFC 3986 is never sent to the server. The result: RocketShare cannot access your files, even if compelled by a court order.
Google Drive encrypts files at rest with AES-256, but Google holds the keys. Files can be scanned, indexed, and disclosed to authorities. Your data is protected from outsiders, but not from Google itself.
Cloud storage vs secure transfers
Google Drive is designed for long-term cloud storage and collaboration. Files live on Google's servers indefinitely, sharing permissions can be confusing to manage, and recipients get the best experience with a Google account.
RocketShare is purpose-built for secure file transfers:
- Automatic expiry — files delete themselves after 3–90 days
- Download limits — control how many times a file can be downloaded
- No account needed — recipients just click a link
- No file compression — full quality preserved
If you collaboratively edit documents, Google Drive is the right tool. If you need to send files that no one else can access, that's what RocketShare is built for.
Data residency and privacy
Google stores data across a global infrastructure, primarily in the United States. For organizations subject to GDPR or other data residency requirements, this creates compliance concerns.
RocketShare stores encrypted files in Amsterdam, EU, providing clear European data residency. Combined with zero-knowledge encryption, your files get both legal and technical privacy protection.
Pricing
RocketShare plans:
- Free — 4 GB/month, 10 transfers, up to 7-day expiry
- Mini — $3/month — 60 GB/month, 20 transfers, up to 30-day expiry
- Starter — $7/month — 350 GB/month, 40 transfers, up to 60-day expiry
- Pro — $18/month — Unlimited transfers, up to 90-day expiry
- Teams — $15/seat/month — Unlimited transfers, seat-based billing
Google Workspace starts at $6/user/month for 30 GB storage. Consumer Google One plans offer more storage from $1.99/month for 100 GB. These are storage plans — not transfer-focused.
Why choose RocketShare
- Zero-knowledge encryption — AES-256-GCM, keys never leave your browser
- No file scanning possible — encrypted before upload
- EU data residency — files stored in Amsterdam
- No account needed for recipients
- Automatic expiry — files don't linger on servers
- Password protection and download limits included
Ready to share files securely?
Stop sharing files through a platform that can read them. Try RocketShare free — no account required to get started.