Overview of webMethods ActiveTransfer
webMethods ActiveTransfer is a Managed File Transfer (MFT) solution that ensures protected internal and external data transfers in a centralized system for Business-to-Business (B2B), Application-to-Application (A2A), cloud-based, or ad hoc environments. ActiveTransfer uses a combination of advanced software and secure communication protocols to provide:
Reliable and secure data transfer.
Automated data transfers based on specific policies, partners, and permissions.
Management of large files.
Insight and control at every stage of the transfer process, including real-time monitoring, error and receipt logging, auditing, and data tracking.
MFT solutions come in many implementations, including both software applications and services, with varying levels of control, integration, and transparency. Most MFT solutions are made up of at least the following four key components, available individually or bundled as an end-to-end solution:
ActiveTransfer servers that do the primary work of data exchange behind a firewall, including support of all communications and security protocols.
Proxies/reverse proxies that operate in the demilitarized zone and protect the actual IP addresses and ports of both transmitters and recipients.
Clients that provide administration, reporting, scheduling, and scripting, used by both human users and applications (through application programming interfaces or APIs).
APIs that enable third-party applications to interact and communicate with
ActiveTransfer servers.
MFT offers a number of security, administration, and scalability advantages over non-secure file transfer protocols such as FTP. With MFT, there is no need to develop custom code for routine functions such as delivery confirmation, reporting, audit, security provisioning, and trading partner/community management.