Managed File Transfer (MFT) Solution

What is Managed File Transfer?

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.

Why is MFT Needed?

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:

• Save time and money
• Improve security
• Simplify server-to-server file transfers
• Meet compliance requirements

Why Use Managed File Transfer?

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:

• Audit or monitor your organization's file transfer activity.
• Comply with data security laws and regulations.
• Move to a more secure way to send data.
• Use adaptable processes that can overcome downtime, reduce human error, and auto-resume.
• Exchange data with internal and external stakeholders, whether in the cloud or on-premises.

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.

Watch the webinar: Replacing FTP Scripts with Managed File Transfer

Comparing MFT Solutions

Features of a Robust MFT Software Solution

Maximize the use of MFT at your organization with advanced features:

Discover how organizations are using MFT today: The GoAnywhere Book of Secure File Transfer Project Examples

Free vs. Open Source vs. Paid

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.

Keep reading: What is Wrong With Free File Transfer?

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:

1. Limited functionality. With open source software, you may have to find multiple products to make up the features that a single MFT option has. This could include security, auditing, or automation features. And if your organization starts to need more out of the solution, you may start to quickly outgrow an open source version.
2. Limited support. Just because the software is free, there is no guarantee that support or other resources for using the software, like documentation, user support forums, or support calls, will be free as well – or exist at all.
3. Uncertainty. Open source software isn’t just free – it’s wild and free. If the developer decides to call it quits, or the company that offers the software you rely on withdraws the free version, you could be left in a lurch with no MFT application at all.

Keep reading: The Pros and Cons of Open Source MFT Software

The Best MFT Tools and Software

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?

1. Determine your "must haves." Whether that’s file transfer volume, file size, how much time you’d like to reduce manual file transfers by, or another component, list out the things you’d like your MFT solution to do. Then, during your research and conversations with the vendors, ensure that the software accomplishes those goals.
2. Recognize your industry-specific requirements. Higher education, healthcare, and banking and finance, among others, are subject to stringent regulations for file sharing and data security. Consider requirements that apply to your organization when considering MFT solutions.
3. Choose your deployment options. Some organizations prefer their software on-premises, some prefer cloud solutions, and still others have hybrid setups in place. Your MFT software should fit into your organization’s software deployment preferences.

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.