MANAGED FILE TRANSFER (MFT)
What is it? How does it work? Why does your business need it?
Understanding the Basics of MFT
What is Managed File Transfer (MFT)?
Managed File Transfer (MFT) is a comprehensive solution designed to handle all aspects of inbound and outbound file transfers, including network protocols and encryption methods.
The term “managed” refers to the way the solution automates and securely transfers data across your entire organization. This includes your network, systems, applications, business partners, and cloud environments—all from a single, centralized administration point.
What Are the Benefits of MFT?
An MFT solution can be used by businesses of all sizes, whether they need to transfer just a few dozen files per week or handle significantly larger volumes.
Unlike traditional FTP or SFTP solutions, MFT solutions typically offer:
- Robust security controls
- Automated batch file transfers
- Advanced auditing and reporting features
- Automatic reconnection and file transfer retries
- Support for secure protocols (AS2, AS4, SFTP, FTPS, etc.) for safe data exchange with business partners
MFT can replace outdated technologies such as unsecured FTP solutions or in-house systems that rely on manual, time-consuming processes and obsolete scripts. When file access is too decentralized, it often leads to decreased productivity, making data management, security, and control more challenging for your teams.
How does MFT work?
Compared to using various FTP and SFTP tools, MFT allows IT professionals to streamline the way data is transferred. Organisations can send and receive files across their cloud and private networks, creating and controlling workflows while automating transfers. It is also useful for employees wishing to transmit large and confidential files in complete security.
Step 1: The original file is sent from the MFT program or plug-in
When you need to send a confidential document to someone in one of your subsidiaries, you can do so using an MFT solution. The transfer can be made in several ways:
- Send the file using an MFT email plugin.
- Send via a web client with browser access to the MFT solution.
- Send automatically and directly via a workflow.
- Place the file in a dedicated folder to which the recipient can connect to download it.
Whichever method you choose to send your file, the MFT guarantees fast, secure data transfer.
Step 2: The MFT solution encrypts your file
Once you have sent your e-mail, downloaded the file on your browser (or saved it in a dedicated folder), the MFT solution receives the data and secures it.
Files are encrypted using AES encryption (compliant with FIPS140-2 standard) or Open PGP encryption. Your transmission is protected using SFTP, SCP, FTPS, AS2, or HTTPS protocols, as well as HTTPS protocols, which are also encrypted.
With an MFT solution, you can also:
- Schedule your file transfers.
- Convert data sent and received in formats such as Excel, XML, and JSON.
- Extract files from folders.
- And much more…
Step 3: The encrypted file is delivered, then decrypted by the recipient
When the file leaves the server, it is sent to the location that you have specified, such as a folder on a server, an email address, etc.
MFT solutions often include audit logs to track file movement and activity of the file.
The recipient can then, in turn, respond using the same process.
Data protection is of paramount importance to businesses.
An MFT solution offers a secure method of transferring information. Secure file transfers reduce the risk of data breaches and unauthorised access to information systems.
Managed file transfers offer a number of benefits to businesses, such as:
- High ROI.
- Improved quality of data transfer management thanks to centralised administration.
- Time savings and productivity gains for your teams thanks to automation.
- Enhanced security with encryption.
- Meet compliance requirements (PCI DSS, HIPAA, RGPD, etc.) thanks to detailed audits and reports.
About GoAnywhere
BlueFinch-ESBD
A file transfer management solution such as GoAnywhere is essential for centralising your information, automating your exchanges (thanks to e-mail communication channels (e-mail, SFTP, FTPS, HTTPS, etc.), and protecting data.
GoAnywhere MFT is a multi-platform, modular solution that is easy to use, integrates, and optimises all your data sharing through a single interface.
Whether machine-to-machine or person-to-person, GoAnywhere will secure all your file transfers and ensure more efficient collaborative working.
