DoD SAFE (Secure Access File Exchange) is a secure file transfer service provided by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). It allows authorized users to securely exchange files and documents with other users within the DoD and with external partners, including government agencies, contractors, and other entities. Before DoD SAFE, the U.S. Department of Defense and various government agencies relied on various file transfer methods, including physical media, emails, and other ad-hoc solutions. These methods were often cumbersome, lacked security, and were not well-suited for the sensitive and classified information commonly handled by the DoD.

As government operations and communications increasingly relied on digital platforms, the need for a secure and standardized file transfer solution became evident. There was a growing demand for a centralized system that could ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data while adhering to strict security standards. In response to these challenges, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), the DoD’s IT combat support agency, developed DoD SAFE as a secure file exchange platform. The goal was to provide a standardized, user-friendly, and secure solution for the entire Department of Defense.

DoD SAFE was designed to accommodate various user authentication methods, including Common Access Cards (CAC) and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificates, to ensure that only authorized users could access the system and exchange sensitive data.

Features and Advancements

Features and Advancements

DoD SAFE’s features have evolved over time, addressing user feedback, incorporating technological advancements, and adapting to changing security requirements. Some key features include encrypted data transmission, file integrity verification, and secure file storage on the server. Over the years, DISA has worked to improve the performance, scalability, and user experience of DoD SAFE, making it a critical tool for secure file transfer within the DoD and with external partners.

To streamline data sharing and enhance interoperability, efforts were made to integrate DoD SAFE with other DoD systems and applications. This integration allowed users to seamlessly transfer files between different platforms, further enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of communication within the defense community. As with any critical IT system, DoD SAFE requires continuous maintenance and updates to address security vulnerabilities, maintain compatibility with evolving technologies, and improve overall performance. DISA and the DoD have been committed to ensuring the highest level of security and reliability for DoD SAFE users.

How to Login DoD SAFE?

To access DoD SAFE, users must have a valid Common Access Card (CAC) or Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificate. These authentication methods ensure that only authorized personnel can access the system.

  1. Open a web browser and navigate to the DoD SAFE website (https://safe.apps.mil/).
  2. Click on the “Login” button.
  3. Choose the appropriate certificate when prompted.
  4. Enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) associated with your CAC or PKI certificate.
  5. You are now logged into DoD SAFE and can start using the service.

How to Use DoD SAFE?

DoD SAFE is a user-friendly platform with a simple interface. Here are the key steps to use the service effectively:

  1. Uploading Files:
  • After logging in, click on the “Drop-off” tab to initiate the file upload process.
  • Select the files or folders you wish to upload from your local system or network.
  • Click “Upload” to begin the file transfer to the DoD SAFE server.
  1. Creating Packages:
  • Once the files are uploaded, you can group them into packages for organized sharing.
  • Click on the “Create Package” button and give your package a descriptive name.
  • Add the files you want to include in the package and save it.
  1. Sending Files:
  • Go to the “Send Package” tab to initiate the sharing process.
  • Choose the package you want to send from the list.
  • Enter the recipient’s email address(es) and an optional message.
  • Click “Send” to transmit the package securely to the designated recipient(s).
  1. Receiving Files:
  • When someone sends you a package through DoD SAFE, you will receive an email notification with a link to access the package.
  • Click on the link and log in using your CAC or PKI certificate if prompted.
  • You can download the package and its contents to your local system.
Dropping off in DoD SAFE

Dropping off in DoD SAFE

“Dropping off” refers to the process of securely transferring files to recipients who are not part of the DoD SAFE system. When you drop off a package, the recipient receives an email notification with instructions to access the files.

  1. Initiating Drop-off:
  • After logging in, go to the “Drop-off” tab and click on the “New Drop-off” button.
  • Upload the files you want to share, and they will be stored on the DoD SAFE server until the recipient accesses them.
  1. Entering Recipient Information:
  • Enter the recipient’s email address(es) and an optional message.
  • You can also set an expiration date for the drop-off link if needed.
  1. Notification and Access:
  • The recipient(s) will receive an email with a link to access the drop-off.
  • Upon clicking the link, they will be prompted to log in using their CAC or PKI certificate to access the files.

DoD SAFE Passphrase

A passphrase is an additional layer of security used to protect sensitive files within a DoD SAFE package. When a user creates a package, they have the option to assign a passphrase. The recipient must enter the correct passphrase to open and view the files.

To add a passphrase to a package:

  1. Create or select the package you want to secure.
  2. Click on “Edit Package.”
  3. Enter your chosen passphrase in the provided field.
  4. Save the changes to enable the passphrase protection.