[2022 Updated] 4 Alternatives to File Transfer Protocols

Today's data-driven world is demanding, requiring accuracy, speed, integrity, and most importantly safety. This is a daunting task. In the past, many organizations have relied heavily on the old version of the file transfer protocol to transfer files. But over time, FTP alternatives have become necessary because the security of this method has been tested by hackers.

4 Alternatives to File Transfer Protocols

FTP alternatives include SFTP, HTTPS, AS2, and MFT. For example, in 2001, a serious breach occurred at Yale University, when more than 43,000 user IDs were exposed and all data was carefully collected from the FTP server. In the same year, Acer's customer details were stolen similarly. Moreover, credentials for 7,000 FTP sites have been distributed in underground forums, including the FTP server run by The New York Times.

Security and file transfer are important issues for IT security professionals, but what is the best way to protect company data?

Take advantage of more secure options. As many organizations gradually move beyond traditional FTP, they have chosen modern and secure FTP alternatives to transfer data, including:

_1.SFTP

SFTP is also known as FTP over SSH. It uses a secure channel between computer systems to prevent unauthorized disclosure during the transaction process, thereby reducing the risk in the data exchange process. The authentication of the SFTP connection involves user ID and password, SSH key, or both. It is also firewall-friendly and only needs to open a port number.

2.HTTPS

Many sites tend to use HTTPS instead of traditional HTTP, but what are the main differences? First of all, traditional HTTP does not encrypt browser traffic, which brings security risks. In contrast, HTTPS uses Transport Layer Security (TLS) to provide an additional layer of encryption. This will create a secure channel, so the integrity of the data will not be changed without your knowledge. HTTPS is very suitable for file transfer, where trading partners need a simple browser-based interface to upload data.

3.AS2

This is a popular method to safely and reliably transmit EDI data over the Internet. AS2 generates an "envelope" for data, allowing it to be sent using digital certificates and encryption. For example, Wal-Mart is widely known for its use of EDI through AS2 and has played an important role in driving adoption in the retail industry.

4.MFT

The way to support the above options and make FTP more secure is Managed File Transfer (MFT). This security option simplifies the data exchange between the system, employees, and customers. It supports multiple protocols and encryption standards, and MFT provides a wide range of security functions that can meet strict security policies to comply with PCI DSS, HIPAA, GLBA, and other regulatory requirements.

The MFT solution provides advanced authentication and data encryption to provide safe and reliable file transfer. You can also track user visits and transfer activities through the reporting function.

More importantly, managed file transfer can solve other problems or troubles you may encounter, including the need for automatic file encryption, workflow and project automation, file transfer monitoring and notification, and easy file sharing with third-party suppliers and trading partners. In general, managed file transfer provides the best choice. It is a secure FTP alternative to quickly and effectively manage data transfers through detailed audit records. It is preventive, not reactive, which is most needed by security experts in today's environment. It is supported on many platforms (including local (Windows and Linux), cloud (Azure and AWS), and hybrid environments), so you can safely transfer files anytime, anywhere.