File Transfer Protocols (FTPs) can be simple to use and very popular. However, FTP is not the best way to transfer your files. Traditional file transfer solutions lack encryptions and authentication of data being transferred. Without this, anyone with the capability can intercept your data and it also puts your FTP system at risk if it’s exposed. In additions, FTP solutions require maintenance and update which adds to your workload.
Ultimately, those traditional solutions are unreliable. So, today we’ll be giving an overview of four alternatives you can use instead of your traditional file transfer solution.
Four Alternatives to Traditional FTP Solutions
1. SFTP
Your traditional file transfer protocol (or FTP) helps you transfer files between clients and servers. Secure FTP takes the core functionality of a traditional file transfer protocol and ensures that the data being transferred is delivered securely using Secure Shell (SSH) in order to establish a more secure connection and provides you with higher file transfer protection. SFTP does not require two-factor authentication. However, you can choose to require both a user ID and password, as well as SSH keys for a higher level of security. Unlike when you use FTP over SSL/TLS, SFTP only needs one port number to establish a server connection.
Related Reading: SFTP vs. FTPS: The Key Differences
2. FTPS
FTPS is a file transfer protocol that allows you to connect with trading partners, customers, and users securely using SSL and TLS to encrypt server. Data being transferred through FTPS can be supported by passwords, client certificates, and server certificates. X.509 certificates are used to authenticate these connections. Regarding compliance, you can achieve security requirements such as PCI DSS, HIPAA & HITECH, SOX, and data privacy laws. There is a downside to FTPS which is that FTPS protocols can be difficult to connect through high security firewalls.
Related Reading: The Difference Between Implicit and Explicit FTPS
Watch the Webinar: FTP, FTPS, & SFTP: Which Protocol Should You Use and When?
3. AS2
Applicability Statement 2 (AS2) was popularized in the 1990s when Walmart adopted it making the protocol a mainstay within the retail industry. AS2 uses digital certificates to ensure the data being transferred is delivered to the intended user. In addition, AS2 has high-level encryption standards that protect critical information while it is in motion. Using this protocol, messages can be compressed and sent over a secure SSL tunnel. Upon delivery, users can request and MDN (Message Disposition Notification or receipt) to alert them and verify that the messages were received and fully decrypted by the intended user. An NRR (non-repudiation of receipt) will also give the sender legal proof that any given message was unaltered while in delivery.
Related Reading: Which is Better: AS2 vs. SFTP?
4. MFT
Managed File Transfer (MFT) acts as a secure solution for inbound and outbound file transfer. One of the main benefits of MFT is its ability to automate and simplify data transfers within and outside of your organization. MFT also improves security, meets compliance requirements, and will save organizations time and money. MFT users can audit and monitor file transfer activity, as well as exchange data in the cloud and on-premises.
Related Reading: The 2021 MFT Data Quadrant Report is Here
Terms to Know: GoAnywhere Glossary
