What method is best for securely transferring data while ensuring integrity and confidentiality?

Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is the best method for securely transferring data while ensuring integrity and confidentiality due to its built-in security features. SFTP is a network protocol that provides a secure version of the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) and operates over a secure channel, typically utilizing SSH (Secure Shell) to encrypt the data being transferred.

When data is transmitted using SFTP, it means that an encryption layer is applied, which ensures that unauthorized parties cannot easily intercept or read the information being sent. This encryption enhances the confidentiality of the data. Additionally, SFTP incorporates measures that ensure data integrity, meaning that any alterations to the data during transmission will be detectable.

In contrast, basic data transfer methods and unencrypted transmissions do not offer such security measures, making data vulnerable to interception and manipulation. Plain file transfer lacks both encryption and additional integrity verification processes, further compromising the safety and reliability of the data transfer. Thus, SFTP stands out as the most secure and reliable choice for transferring sensitive data securely.