>My client has asked me to do a feasibility study on transferring files between 2 PC via the internet.
>
>I would like your input on:
>- What is the best method to transfer files? (E-mail, FTP, etc.)

We've found email is not a reliable method for sending files. Our FTP transfers happen with no problems. If you are hosting the FTP site, IIS has an FTP server that handles things for you. You will need a client piece too.

>- What tool is best suited for this task? (ActiveX from MS, 3-party tool, etc.)

We use the Mabry ActiveX FTP control for the client and IIS for the server.

>- When one PC receive a file, it may have some file to send to the sender. How it can be implemented?

The user logs in and have two directories. One for files they are sending us, the other for files we are sending them. They just need to check for files in the proper directory.

>- How an application can retreive the files when it's received?

The Mabry control has a GetFile method that retrieves the file.

>- Hardware consideration?

I'd recommend WIN NT Server for the security, so hardware would be anything that can run Win NT. You also need a static connection to the internet if you are hosting the FTP site.

>- This fonctionality must be implemented as a COM to be integrated in other applications. Any gotchas?

In addition to the ActiveX control, Mabry has a COM Automation Server version.

>
>TIA