Managed file transfer (MFT) is a secure solution that helps organizations meet all aspects of inbound and outbound file transfer. “Managed” describes one of the main draws of managed file transfer solutions: its ability to automate, simplify, and streamline data transfers, whether across your organization, within a private network, or to external users.
Getting files from one place to the next is a business essential, and there are many applications that help users do just that. Managed file transfer (MFT) is a secure way to centralize, simplify, and automate your data movements. Organizations incorporate MFT software to:
GoAnywhere MFT is one of the leading managed file transfer solutions. It automates and secures file movement using a centralized enterprise-level approach.
GoAnywhere MFT streamlines file transfers and related business processes without the need for programming or special skills. You can deploy GoAnywhere on-premises, in the cloud on platforms like Microsoft Azure and AWS or via MFTaaS, or within hybrid environments. Our secure managed file transfer solution runs easily on platforms like Linux, Windows, AIX, the IBM i, and more.
Several managed file transfer solutions also assist in your file transfers by letting you set up bulk or repeating transfers, using auto-resume to ensure files make it to their destination with no need for troubleshooting, and creating logs to get a global look at transfers months after they’re complete.
Protecting sensitive data is of paramount importance in today’s environment, both in transit and at rest. Managed file transfer is one among many file transfer options. However, as a centralized method for encrypting, automating, and sending data securely from one place to the next, it stands out among other approaches to file transfer. You may want to use managed file transfer if your organization needs to:
Some MFT solutions offer added features that allow you to integrate data flow between the cloud and web apps you use daily, and can be deployed on-premises, in the cloud environment, or as a SaaS solution to give your organization the flexibility you need to transfer files securely.
Managed file transfer is built on simple, secure file transfer that lets you create, schedule, monitor, and process sent and retrieved files. Because MFT is an enhancement to file transfer protocols, look for MFT solutions that offer:
Get up and running quickly with straightforward user interfaces, dedicated support, and drag-and-drop process building.
Stay ahead of hackers while getting the latest-and-greatest in file transfer. Global processes and data security requirements change, and you want your solution to stay ahead of the curve.
Some organizations deploy all their software on-premises, some use web service, and some mix the two for a hybrid solution. Whether you’re strictly on-prem or cloud-friendly, ensure that the MFT software you prefer can be deployed how you want, and on the platform your organization uses.
Select the software bundle that fits your organization best. Make sure you can add onto the software without paying an arm and a leg.
Your file transfers may not always stay the same. Down the line, you may need increased file transfer bandwidth, add new features and modules, or expand your userbase. Guarantee that your MFT solution can keep up with your company’s growth and changes.
The foundation of managed file transfer is security. The MFT solution you select must be able to meet your industry compliance requirements, as well as data privacy regulations.
Schedule a personalized 15-, 30-, or 60-minute demo to discuss your file transfer requirements, and how GoAnywhere can improve your data exchanges today.
Maximize the use of MFT at your organization with advanced features:
EFSS | While EFSS and MFT have many common features, EFSS is a solution used for sharing files between individuals and their devices. MFT, on the other hand, is primarily used for automating and securing batch file transfers between systems, customers, and trading partners on a variety of platforms. |
SFTP | SFTP is a secure FTP protocol and provides organizations with a high level of protection for its file transfers thanks to SSH. It’s a free and inexpensive way to send a receive secure file transfers to a handful of trading partners, while MFT streamlines all aspects of your file transfers, and lets you use SFTP, among other secure protocols, to safeguard data. |
Dropbox | When people first think of ad-hoc file sharing, the first option that often comes to mind is Dropbox. Depending on your Dropbox plan, it’s either free or low cost, and allows for collaboration on documents and some file sharing via folder permissions. MFT gives you the same functionality alongside additional features. |
When it comes to file transfer and data sharing, most organizations want to know that their data is secure at all steps in the process. Using secure software can help with that, but cost may be a factor. When considering free or open source software to transfer your sensitive data, consider the pros and cons of the solution.
Free file transfer tools can be great for sending small, one-off types of documents that don’t require any privacy or security precautions. But for moving sensitive information, free software isn’t the way to go; data breaches, inability to audit, and failing to meet compliance requirements can put your organization on the line for more money than the cost of secure software. While free is good in some venues, safeguarding your valuable data is worth budgeting for.
Open source solutions can have more security protections than free tools but are not necessarily up to the task of fully protecting sensitive data. While most open source MFT software can go head-to-head with paid options, they tend to lose in three areas:
A cursory search for “managed file transfer software” results in many options: free, paid, “best of” lists, and “perfect for your industry.” But how do you know which MFT solution is best for you and your organization?
Keep reading: How to Evaluate MFT Vendors
There are some key players in the MFT space, and you’ll find a variety of ways to compare them. One of the best ways is to look at testimonials and reviews on your favorite software review website, like Gartner Peer Insights, Capterra, or G2, among others. You can also examine aggregated reviews, such as Info-Tech’s MFT Category Report to get a closer look at the specifics that interest you.
What is a managed file transfer solution?
Managed file transfer (MFT) solutions simplify and secure an everyday business essential: file movement. Benefits of managed file transfer include time and cost savings, improved security, simplified data movements, and assistance meeting compliance requirements.
Organizations use managed file transfer to:
MFT solutions are flexible enough to encompass most file encryption, centralization, and security needs.
Why use a managed file transfer solution?
Managed file transfer (MFT) is a type of software solution that helps organizations meet all aspects of inbound and outbound file transfer. “Managed” describes one of the benefits of managed file transfer solutions: its ability to automate, simplify, and streamline data transfers, whether across your organization, within a private network, or to external users.
How do managed file transfer solutions work?
Managed file transfer (MFT) users set up transfers files within the MFT application. Once the transfer is outlined, the MFT solution encrypts the data as well as the transfer itself. Once the MFT file transfer leaves the sender’s server, it is sent to the recipient, who can decrypt the data.
What are the top benefits of managed file transfer solutions?
Managed file transfer (MFT) solutions are enhancements to traditional file transfer protocols and processes. MFT solutions win over other file transfer methods because they are:
What are the best managed file transfer solutions?
The best managed file transfer (MFT) solution will vary based on your organization. When searching for an MFT solution consider what you’d like your MFT solution to do, your industry-specific requirements such as compliance requirements, and how you want to deploy the solution. These requirements will help you narrow down the possible vendors and solutions that best fit your organization’s file transfer needs.
There are key players in the MFT space, and there are a variety of ways to compare them. Testimonials and reviews on software review sites, like Gartner Peer Insights, Capterra, or G2, or aggregate reviews, such as Info-Tech’s MFT Category Report can help you identify the features that each solution offers.
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