Overview of Managed File Transfer
Managed file transfer (MFT) is a process 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. MFT uses a combination of advanced software and secure communications protocols to provide the following:
Reliable, secure data transfer
Automated data transfers based on specific policies, partners, and permissions
Better 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:
MFT servers, which do the primary work of MFT exchange behind a firewall, including support of all communications and security protocols.
Proxies/reverse proxies, which operate in the “demilitarized zone” and protect the actual IP addresses and ports of both transmitters and recipients.
Clients, which provide administration, reporting, scheduling, and scripting, used by both human users and applications (through application programming interfaces, or APIs).
APIs, which enable third-party applications to interact and communicate with MFT 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.