AS2 (Applicability Statement 2) is a communication protocol designed for the secure and reliable exchange of business data over the internet. It is commonly used in industries where the secure transmission of data is critical, such as retail, finance, healthcare, and logistics. AS2 provides a mechanism for securely sending and receiving files, ensuring data integrity, confidentiality, and authenticity between trading partners.

For businesses that rely on steady B2B communications, AS2 software becomes essential. In particular, it can address the following pain points.

• Fulfill the requirements of partners requiring AS2 as a condition for doing business
• Reducing delays, errors, or security gaps that come with manual file transfers
• Lack of end-to-end visibility and delivery confirmation for transferred files
• Limited audit trails to meet regulatory or contractual requirements
• Inability to manage high volumes of transactions or scale with business growth

You can address the above issues with the right AS2 solution, as it can automate secure data exchanges, confirm delivery with Message Disposition Notifications (MDNs), and keep you compliant without extra manual work.

In this article, we review the top AS2 tools that meet the real needs of businesses.

Here are our top picks for the best AS2 tools:

1. JSCAPE AS2 Server EDITOR’S CHOICE This on-premises, hybrid environment, cloud, and SaaS/MFTaaS package provides AS2 transmission management and is part of a wider managed file transfer platform. There is also an MFT gateway component to handle incoming secure transmissions. Installs on Windows, Linux, Unix, Z/OS, and macOS. Access the 7-day free trial.
2. Files.com (FREE TRIAL) Flexible cloud-based file transfer tool with multiple options to suit any size organization.
3. ShareFile User-friendly tool for file transfers that include several plugins for Microsoft platforms.
4. WinSCP Easy to use and highly customizable transfer tool with extended scripting options.
5. Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server This secure file transfer service offers a range of protocols, including FTPS, SFTP, and HTTPS, but not AS2. Runs on Windows Server or Linux.
6. GoAnywhere MFT Enterprise solution for transfers and file management supporting AS2 and EDI.
7. MFT Gateway Cloud-hosted AS2 solution that offers secure messaging as a SaaS product.

Key Features of AS2

AS2 enables organizations to send data such as Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) messages or other business documents securely over the Internet. Unlike traditional methods such as FTP or email, AS2 uses a combination of digital certificates, encryption, and secure hash algorithms to ensure the data is protected throughout its journey. It supports message-level security, meaning each message is individually signed, encrypted, and verified, providing end-to-end security.

The protocol is based on HTTP/HTTPS for message transport and uses digital certificates for authentication and encryption. This allows companies to establish secure, direct communication channels between trading partners without needing to rely on intermediaries.

AS2 Layers

The AS2 protocol operates at several layers to provide a secure and reliable data exchange:

1. Application Layer: This is where the actual business data, such as EDI messages, is packaged into a message for transmission. AS2 messages can be sent in various formats, including EDI, XML, or flat files.
2. Transport Layer: AS2 typically uses HTTP or HTTPS for message transport. HTTPS ensures that data is encrypted in transit, providing confidentiality and protection against eavesdropping or tampering.
3. Security Layer: This layer involves the application of digital signatures, encryption, and secure hashing. A digital signature is used to verify the authenticity of the sender, while encryption ensures that the message contents remain confidential.
4. Receipt Layer: AS2 also includes a mechanism for message receipt acknowledgment. When a message is successfully received, an MDN (Message Disposition Notification) is sent back to the sender, confirming delivery and integrity.

By combining these layers, AS2 ensures secure, reliable, and efficient data exchange across various industries.

What is AS2 used for?

The AS2 protocol is primarily used for business applications to conduct transactions across multiple trading partners securely. In addition, these standard protocols help businesses share information at scale in EDI systems by keeping data uniform across every part of their journey.

AS2 is used widely in retail, insurance, and government to process large amounts of data effectively.

What are the advantages of AS2?

AS2 is highly secure and uses asymmetric key cryptography to keep communication confidential. Although a common misconception is that AS2 only uses HTTP to send data, this is not entirely true. Information is always encrypted before sending in AS2 messaging and given a digital signature for authentication.

When compared to systems before the internet, AS2 is considerably more cost-effective than sending physical documents. In the past, secure transactions would have to be sent via physical mail. This not only took significantly longer but could allow for the message to be lost in transit. Instead, AS2 uses fundamental internet protocols to send messages and share data securely send.

Sharing data via AS2 allows for companies to have updated information on each side in near real-time. This is incredibly important, securely send for specific industries. For example, the AS2 protocol can securely send real-time inventory updates from the warehouse to the retail stores allowing them to plan their next shipment based on the most accurate information.

Is AS2 the only option?

Depending on your use case, the AS2 protocol is not the only option for sending files securely at scale. For example, SFTP, SFTP, and MFT are all viable protocols that EDI systems and other applications can use to move information securely.

Many platforms support multiple protocols, allowing companies greater flexibility in how they build their EDI platform. With that said, let’s take a look at some software that achieves secure file transfer through AS2 and similar protocols.

Key Points to Consider Before Purchasing AS2 Tools

Choosing an AS2 tool is an important decision, as it can impact compliance, relationship with partners, trust with stakeholders, and even the security of your organization. Given this criticality to your operations, below are some key points to consider before purchasing an AS2 tool.

• Interoperability: Your tool must support compatibility with a wide range of trading partners, even if they use different AS2 implementations. Seamless certificate exchange, protocol adherence, and support for partner-specific requirements are non-negotiable.
• Security Standards: Look for tools that support strong encryption algorithms like AES-256, digital signatures, and secure certificate management.
• MDN Support: Automatic and reliable MDN handling ensures every file is received and acknowledged. This is vital for compliance and reduces the risk of undetected delivery failures.
• Logging: Look for granular tracking of sent/received files, certificate usage, and timestamps, as they can help meet regulatory, legal, and partner audit requirements.
• Scalability: Can the solution handle growing transaction volumes as your network expands
• Easy Configuration: An intuitive interface and centralized dashboard can save your IT team hours.
• Deployment: Make sure your tool fits your infrastructure strategy.
• Integration: Your AS2 tool must integrate well with ERP systems, EDI platforms, and file storage solutions. Native connectors and API support help reduce manual steps and automate file transfers.

These points can help filter out tools that meet your technical and business needs.

How to Calculate the ROI of AS2 Tools

Estimating the Return on Investment (ROI) is the first step that will help you identify the right platform that will meet your needs while staying within budgets. It’s also helpful to convince other stakeholders to accept your decision.

Below are the steps that can go into calculating the ROI.

Step 1: Establish Your Metrics

Start by assessing your current system’s inefficiencies and the potential financial risks. Some key metrics to consider are:

• Number of daily/weekly file transfers.
• Time spent on manual file transfers or troubleshooting failed transfers.
• Number of failed or delayed transactions per month.
• Cost of penalties or chargebacks due to missed SLAs or non-compliance.
• Hours spent managing certificates manually.
• Support and licensing costs of your current file transfer method.

Step 2: Know the Cost of the New Platform

Understand the total cost of deploying a new AS2 solution. Include the following costs in your calculations.

• Software licenses or subscription fees.
• Hardware (if on-premise) or cloud service costs.
• Initial configuration and integration with ERP/EDI systems.
• Training for IT and operations teams.
• Ongoing maintenance and support fees.

Step 3: Calculate the Benefits

Identify all the financial and operational benefits that come with automation and improved reliability. Some possible areas to look for are:

• Time saved due to automated transfers and monitoring.
• Fewer failed transfers and rework.
• Reduced compliance risk with proper audit trails and security protocols.
• Faster partner onboarding and reduced support tickets.
• Consolidation of multiple file transfer tools into one solution.
• Improved SLA performance, leading to fewer fines and better partner relationships.

Step 4: Put the Numbers Together

Finally, put all the calculations together in this formula.

• Annual Savings = (Time Saved by IT Staff * Hourly Rate) + (Number of Avoided Transfer Failures * Cost per Incident) + (Compliance Penalties Avoided) + (Savings from Tool Consolidation) 
• Total Investment = All Costs from Step 2
• ROI (%) = ((Annual Savings – Total Investment) / Total Investment) * 100

Use our AS2 Tools ROI Calculator

To make it easy for you, we have created an AS2 ROI calculator. Simply plug in the values to get the ROI.

AS2 ROI Calculator

IT Hours Saved Per Year Hourly Rate ($) Failed Transfers Avoided Per Year Cost Per Failure ($) Compliance Fines Avoided ($) Tool Consolidation Savings ($) Total Investment Cost ($) Calculate ROI

Best AS2 Tools

1. JSCAPE AS2 Server (FREE TRIAL)

Best for: Automation and multi-protocol support

Relevant for: Organizations that handle high volumes of secure data transfers, typically in the financial and healthcare industries

Price: Negotiated price

JSCAPE MFT is a platform that manages secure communications by forming an endpoint for authentication and encryption processes. Among its capabilities, it provides an AS2 Server. This tool can provide automated EDI message transfers, which can be queued and released on a timer. The platform also receives incoming EDI messages protected by AS2. It can then repackage those messages and forward them, possibly applying a different form of security for internal traffic.

JSCAPE MFT’s Key Features:

• Multiple Deployment Options: On-premises, hybrid environment, cloud, and SaaS/MFTaaS
• A Secure Transmission Hub: Repackages and resends messages
• AS2 Capabilities: Also FTPS, SFTP, HTTPS, and OFTP2
• Drummond Certified: Security Enforcement
• Scheduled Transmissions: Can send messages on a schedule

Unique Business Proposition

JSCAPE is known for its support for multiple protocols, making it suitable for different situations and industries. Along with AS2, you can also use it for SFTP, FTPS, HTTPS, and more. As a result, you don’t need multiple tools in your organization for file transfers.

Feature-in-Focus: Triggers

The Triggers feature automates your file transfer process without extensive scripts. This is a low-code workflow automation that can be used to set in motion specific processes or actions. It can also help to streamline data exchanges in real time.

Why do we recommend it?

JSCAPE AS2 Server provides a secure channel for AS2 financial data transfers and it can also securely move files with SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS among other encrypted transfer protocols. The platform also provides options for managed file transfers (MFTs), which involves mixing application triggering with transfers through scripts.

JSCAPE’s position on the boundary of the network gives it the ability to control and scrutinize all traffic, making it an effective data scanner. The gateway provides all external encryption services for a network’s communications. All transmitted data passes through the gateway in either direction, presenting an opportunity for virus scanning and content examination for incoming messages and data loss prevention scans for outgoing messages.

The AS2 part of the MFT gateway forges secure connections with counterparts and then applies transmission security for EDI transmissions. Simultaneously, the server will manage other types of traffic. JSCAPE can manage connection security with SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS.

The JSCAPE service also provides a plug-in for Outlook clients. This provides an opportunity to scan both incoming and outgoing emails. That enables security processes to be implemented to identify phishing and impersonation attempts and block or control the movement of sensitive data.

Who is it recommended for?

The JSCAPE system is an MFT service and it isn’t limited to JS2 transfers. This makes the platform suitable for any company. However, an MFT system has far greater capabilities than a typical file transfer service because pre- and post-transfer processes can be integrated into the data movement task.

The JSCAPE platform is one product with multiple capabilities for secure data transmissions. Its abilities include a competent and reliable AS2 implementation. The package can be installed on Windows, macOS, Linux, Unix, and Z/OS. There is no published price list for the JSCAPE service and so your buyer’s journey must start by accessing a 7-day free trial.

2. Files.com (FREE TRIAL)

Best for: Cloud-native and scalable platform

Relevant for: Organizations that require secure and compliant services for exchanging files with external partners

Price: Starter plan starts at $99/month, Power and Premier plans have negotiated pricing

Files.com takes a unique approach to secure file transfer by offering it as a cloud-based solution. Rather than investing in their infrastructure, businesses can use Files.com to create file-sharing solutions in the cloud. This subscription-based approach lets small companies scale their solutions quickly without being restricted by costly servers and IT staff.

Files.com’s Key Features:

• AS2 Integration: Creates an HTTPS wrapper for AS2
• Connections to Cloud Drives: Can operate all actions in the cloud
• Store and Forward Option: Provides a cloud staging area

Unique Business Proposition

What makes Files.com popular is its cloud-based architecture that ensures high availability and scalability. Its user-friendly interface is another reason for its widespread use. Moreover, Files.com supports multiple data transfer protocols, making it a unified choice for organizations that use HTTPS, FTP, etc for file transfers.

Feature-in-Focus: Integrations

A notable feature of Files.com is its vast integrations. This tool works with a wide range of platforms across storage, SSO, iPaaS, apps, events, SIEM, and more. It integrates well with most popular platforms, making it easy for organizations to set up automated workflows and to seamlessly transfer data across applications.

Comparitech SupportScore – 6.0

Files.com has been providing reasonable support, but there’s scope for improvement. With less than 100 employees and a low job satisfaction score, support is something that you should keep an eye on. However, the revenue inflow is reasonable and customer satisfaction is high.

Why do we recommend it?

Files.com provides a flexible mediated file transfer system. This is a cloud host and, typically, you bounce your file transfers through the Files.com filespace that you get with your subscription plan. The service has an extension that will implement AS2 for file transfers and storage space is secured by encryption.

The platform offers a host of file-sharing options, both for large-scale trading partners and smaller one-off transactions. On the enterprise side, Files.com provides a highly customizable way for administrators to build file-sharing solutions using FTPS/FTPeS and similar protocols. Additionally, suppose you’re looking to share files among multiple trading partners or different applications. In that case, the application has a wide variety of integrations via REST API connections making the platform flexible from the start.

Administrators will use numerous built-in features such as automated scheduling and scripting to clean up information, initiate backups, and modify data regularly with relative ease. While many platforms make you build these solutions from scratch, Files.com does an excellent job mixing out-of-the-box solutions with enough customizable features to work quickly without restricting what you can do.

The platform offers numerous security options outside of the protocols themselves to protect users and accounts from attack. Two-factor authentication is enforced for accounts, and insecure protocols such as FTP must be turned on manually. A significant concern with cloud-based tools is that a simple misconfiguration can leave you exposed. Therefore, Files.com takes the initiative to create a secure-by-default product.

The platform provides easy link-based sharing methods for smaller file transfers that allow companies to collaborate and share files with third parties securely and conveniently. While most link sharing offers some security controls, Files.com goes the extra mile by providing features such as link expiration, access auditing, and editing alerts.

Lastly, flexible subscription pricing makes the platform accessible to almost anyone, which is a tough find, especially when looking for AS2/EDI support. Additionally, you can test out Files.com and all of its features through a free 7-day trial.

Who is it recommended for?

The Files.com system has many uses, which makes it an important option for businesses of all sizes whether or not they need its AS2 capabilities. For example, the file space offered by Files.com’s system can be used for syncing and backup and as a business continuity service.

Files.com Start 7-day FREE Trial

3. ShareFile

Best for: Secure content collaboration

Relevant for: Organizations of all sizes with document-centric tasks and workflow-based operations

Price: Four plans; Advanced plan starts at $16, Premium at $25, Industry Advantage at $41.67, and the Virtual Data Room at $67.50. All prices are per user per month

ShareFile was originally created by Citrix but it is now a property of Cloud Software Group. This system provides a cloud drive with a corporate structure, enabling an administrator to create individual accounts for users. It is also possible to set up an admin account to manage tasks such as maintenance tasks and departmental transfers.

ShareFiles’s Key Features:

• Provides FTPS: Secure file transfers
• Includes Cloud Storage: Can be used as a staging area
• Link Mailing for File Access: Let receivers access a file on the Citrix server

Unique Business Proposition

ShareFile is a comprehensive tool that offers robust security, like email file encryption, integrated e-signatures, and more. It is also known for its workflow automation that allows you to connect with different apps and move data across them. Its template library and quick client onboarding are other aspects that make it suitable for many organizations.

Feature-in-Focus: Secure and Compliant

A highlight of ShareFile is its focus on security and compliance. It has many built-in features like data access and control, encryption, user authentication, and more to ensure regulatory compliance and support.

Why do we recommend it?

ShareFile is a similar tool to the Files.com platform. It is a cloud platform that lets you store files for distribution, lifting the strain on your own network and providing backup and business continuity options. Its file transfer options are secure, as is its file storage space.

In some cases, not all EDI systems are knowledgeable about the process or how it works. ShareFile works to make highly in-depth resource-intensive enterprise-focused ward-facing applications as simple as possible, allowing more average users to utilize the product.

Rather than using AS2, ShareFile leverages its cloud-based network to transfer files quickly and securely. This is a good option for users or trading partners that cannot set up or maintain EDI connections on their end.

ShareFile also comes with an Outlook plugin that lets users share files via the plugin rather than through emails. This alone helps cut down on help desk tickets for large files failing over email and offers a way to move information that adheres to compliance standards. ShareFile has also created a specific Office 365, promising a smoother onboarding experience for those users.

Who is it recommended for?

ShareFile is a great option for any business. The service is paid for on a subscription with a rate per user. There are three plan levels. The minimum user count for a ShareFile account is five members. This means that all but the very smallest business will find the package suitable and scalable.

4. WinSCP

Best for: Free and open-source client for secure file transfers

Relevant for: Organizations that use a Microsoft environment for operations

Price: Free

WinSCP is one of the most popular file-sharing tools that allow administrators to manage multiple connections overs SFTP. The platform is entirely free and will enable admins to support single-site connections or scale their configurations to large multi-site operations.

WinSCP’s Key Features:

• Multiple Protocol Capabilities: FTP, FTPS, SCP, SFTP, WebDAV, and S3
• Execution Modes: GUI and command line
• Drag-and-Drop Interface: Useful for manual transfer execution

Unique Business Proposition

WinSCP offers extensive features, despite being a free tool for transferring files. Using this tool, you can create separate workspaces, do background transfers, handle directory caching, and more. Its advanced logging, including XML logging, make it conducive for maintaining audit trails.

Feature-in-Focus: Flexibility

WinSCP gives you the choice to select a configurable storage, pick a comfortable user interface, and even consider integration with PuTTY and other Windows applications. Moreover, it is highly portable and supports workspaces and remote commands.

Why do we recommend it?

WinSCP is the most widely-use free file transfer system in the world. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have an AS2 integration. You would have to run an SFTP connection through a converter account with another system, such as AS2Gateway, which is a paid system and removes the advantage of using the free WinSCP.

Of all the free file transfer solutions available, WinSCP has one of the most vital communities. This is important because bugs are patched quickly, and new features are regularly added to the user forums. -In addition, community-built plugins add additional functionality when needed without bogging down the initial installation of the product.

WinSCP offers support for multiple protocols. In addition, community-built, including FTP, FTPS, SCP, SFTP, WebDAV, or S3, giving it a massive amount of flexibility over smaller tools. The interface is easy to use and even offers a command-line interface (CLI) tool for administrators, making it less resource-intensive.

The real power behind WinSCP comes from its scripting capabilities, allowing administrators to create in-depth workflows, automation, and schedule without being restricted. In comparison, this is a powerful feature, and it’s only reserved for WinSCPs more technical users. In addition, while the platform is free and open-source, it has extensive knowledgebase articles and forum posts to help guide new users.

Who is it recommended for?

WinSCP is a useful tool for any business to have. In fact, it is possible that you already have it. The system can integrate scripts, which means that it could be used to create automated MFT-style processing. However, as has already been mentioned, it doesn’t have AS2 capabilities.

5. Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server

Best for: On-premise file transfers with secure access controls

Relevant for: Large enterprises that require internal and external file transfers while meeting compliance requirements of different standards

Price: Starts at $4,019

Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server allows administrators to build on-site solutions for automated information sharing and file transfers. The software is excellent for companies with IT infrastructure in place, as Serv-U can install easily in any modern Windows or virtualization environment.

Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server’s Key Features:

• Transfers Large Files: More than 3GB
• Secure Transfer Protocols: SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS
• Pre and Post-Transfer Processing: Use this to implement AS2
• Data Protection Standards: PCI DSS, HIPAA, and FISMA compliance

Unique Business Proposition

This platform is designed to support the transfer of large files from both within and outside your organization. You can even share files for a temporary time and automate file transfers on the occurrence of specific events. It supports many protocols and streamlines workflows as well.

Feature-in-Focus: Security

Serv-U comes with many security features for safe file sharing. You can make the transfer password-protected, set a time period after which the transfer will automatically expire, and delete the file after a configurable time. Due to these features, Serv-U meets the requirements of many standards, like PCI-DSS.

Why do we recommend it?

Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server is able to move files with SFTP and FTPSA as well as the unencrypted FTP. Unfortunately, Serv-U doesn’t provide an AS2 capability. Being an MFT service, this platform allows scripts to be built around a transfer for validating and reformatting data either before or after the transfer.

The platform was designed to serve enterprise clients, allowing them to create automated workflows, scheduled file sharing, and multi-site support. If your organization has multiple long-term trading partners, Serv-U can be set up to keep connections established between all parties, each with its configurations and settings.

Companies looking for a tool with compliance in mind will be happy to know that Serv-U has numerous built-in controls that make it easy to establish file transfers that fall in line with standards such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, or FISMA. For example, rather than configuring each directory, the tool lets you set zones. Each zone can have its own rules, allowing you to implement compliant communications at scale quickly.

For Windows environments, administrators can import user permissions via LDAP to easily base zone permissions and configurations off their current permission structure in Active Directory. Unlike some EDI tools, Serv-U is flexible and supports multiple protocols and formats, allowing administrators to build file transfer solutions that meet the needs of your particular business.

Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server can be integrated into workflow automation scripts to transfer files securely. You can use this system to send and receive files and it can offer you a choice of SFTP, FTPS, or HTTPS to protect those file movements.

Who is it recommended for?

Serv-U is a good choice for businesses that want to manage a file server. This is because the tool is a software package for on-premises hosting. You would need Windows Server to run this system. Once the server is running, you can use the Serv-U system for task automation.

You can test-drive Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server completely free through a 14-day free trial.

6. GoAnywhere MFT

Best for: Transferring sensitive data that meets compliance requirements

Relevant for: Organizations that operate in regulated industries like finance, insurance, and healthcare

Price: Negotiated

GoAnywhere MFT offers EDI and file transfer services for enterprise-level organizations looking for automation features and built-in compliance controls. GoAnywhere MFT can deploy in the cloud, on-premises, or a hybrid environment making it highly versatile and flexible.

GoAnywhere MFT’s Key Features:

• Applicability Statement Versions: AS2, AS3, and AS4
• End-to-End Encryption: Ensures confidentiality
• Workflow Scripts: Automate regular transfers

Unique Business Proposition

This file transfer tool comes with many convenient features that support different requirements. You can use it to transfer files across multiple platforms and deployments, like on-premise, cloud, hybrid, or SaaS. Similarly, you can automate workflows for better efficiency while ensuring the security of the content you transfer.

Feature-in-Focus: Encryption

GoAnywhere supports multiple secure transfer protocols, like HTTPS, SFTP, and FTPS, besides AS2. You can encrypt sensitive information, both at rest and during transit, so only the intended recipient can access it. Such end-to-end encryption prevents many common types of attacks, like the man-in-the-middle attacks, data interception, injection, and more.

Why do we recommend it?

Fortra’s GoAnywhere MFT provides an AS2 connection option. This capability is alongside options for AS3 and AS4. The scripting capabilities of this platform enable the creation of automatic data flows out of a system, such as an ERP directly out to EDI transfers with AS2. Fortra also offers an MFT-as-a-Service (MFTaaS).

While the platform is highly complex, it does come with over 60 different pre-built tasks that can be used to create custom workflows. You can browse these tasks and then mix and match them to create your custom solutions. This works well for many simple tasks, but more complicated automation will need extra work to configure.

The platform extends its use beyond EDI transfers and offers Data Loss Prevention (DLP) options to protect files from accidental deletion or improper modification. In addition, the tools do an excellent job of providing powerful automation and workflow tools to end-users and sysadmin alike. However, with that said, GoAnywhere MFT can be pretty complicated to use and requires a significant time and financial investment to utilize fully.

Who is it recommended for?

Fortra GoAnywhere MFT is a sophisticated platform that will appeal to large corporations. The platform’s excellence in AS2 and its related protocols makes this a primary choice for businesses in the finance sector that need to make a lot of automated EDI transfers through its MFT scripting capabilities.

7. MFT Gateway

Best for: A lightweight cloud-native AS2 gateway for secure file transfers

Relevant for: SaaS vendors and small businesses that want to use AS2 to transfer files without having to manage complex infrastructure and security protocols

Price: Four plans; Personal plan costs $9, the Lite is $29, the Basic is $49, and the Startup is $99. All prices are per month

MFT Gateway is a SaaS product that allows organizations to build EDI solutions using AS2 and other secure protocols. The platform is built on Amazon Web Services, allowing it to use Amazon’s global reach to serve files efficiently in an international setting.

MFT Gateway’s Key Features:

• EDI Gateway: Implements AS2
• Hosted on AWS: It isn’t an Amazon Web Services product
• Metered Service: Priced by data throughput

Unique Business Proposition

It is a comprehensive transfer solution for businesses, as it supports automatic MDN handling and end-to-end audit trails. Plus, it is designed mainly for AWS and hence, supports an S3-based backend for secure file storage. It also offers multi-tenancy, which means you can manage multiple tenancy partners through the same platform.

Feature-in-Focus: AS2-as-a-Service

A unique aspect of MFT Gateway is that it is a fully-managed AS2-as-a-service platform geared for AWS. Using this platform, you can send and receive files through a web-based interface or via the REST APIs. There is no need to host this platform on your server.

Why do we recommend it?

MFT Gateway is very flexible and will appeal to network managers with a flair for development. The platform offers a number of launching methods for transfers and it can be integrated into bespoke software. The service provides an optional module called the EDI Gateway, which enables AS2 communications to be translated in and out of the platform.

Like GoAnywhere MFT, this tool is specifically developed for enterprise use in retail, healthcare, and logistics. The tool comes with numerous ready-to-deploy integrations on the back end, making it easy to scale secure messaging across different platforms at scale. Customized integrations can tap into the platform’s REST API or webhooks for additional connectivity. API access is free across all plans, which is a nice touch.

MFT Gateway is a solid option for those looking for secure file transfer as a service. In addition, the monthly subscription model helps lower the barrier to entry, making it a viable option for more budget-conscious businesses.

Who is it recommended for?

Like Fortra’s system, this tool would be very appealing to financial organizations. However, the seemingly low subscription rate for the package is deceptive. The throughput allowance for each plan is very low and just a baseline. Transaction counts above the provided allowance are charged for at an extra rate per transaction.

Which AS2 software is right for you?

Depending on your needs, you may not specifically need the AS2 protocol to perform file transfers. Many EDI systems and transfer applications now support multiple protocols alongside AS2. Platforms such as Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server and Files.com can provide EDI support and enterprise messaging at scale using numerous protocols and configurations.

Smaller businesses looking for AS2 protocol functionality should consider exploring FTP Voyager FTP Client and WinSCP as both are highly customizable and can be used to share files for free.

What are you using for secure messaging and file transfer? Be sure to let us know in the comments below.

Our Methodology for Choosing AS2 Tools

We have a stringent methodology for choosing AS2 tools. Here is our structured approach to get the right tools to you:

1. Compliance Standards

Since the AS2 tools support the exchange of secure data, we make sure their protection mechanisms, like encryption, meet the requirements of NIST, SOC2, and other related standards.

2. Formats

Our methodology looks into the formats supported by each tool. If the tool supports multiple formats, it scores higher on our evaluation.

3. Easy to Use

One non-negotiable aspect for us is that the AS2 tool must have an intuitive interface, and it must be easy to use for everyone.

4. Audit Logs

We prioritize tools that have extensive logs, as it helps with audits. We also look for tools that can send alerts in case of critical errors.

5. Ability to Handle Workloads

As organizations grow and scale, their rate of data exchange can also increase. This is why we looked for tools that can handle large volumes and workloads seamlessly.

6. Customer Support

A highlight of our methodology is our focus on the vendor’s customer support and the stability of operations. We use this as a key factor for evaluations.

Broader B2B Software Selection Methodology

Our broader B2B software selection methodology focuses extensively on whether a vendor is reliable and stable enough to provide top-quality customer support. Specifically, we looked at the following areas.

• Cost-value proposition
• Cybersecurity practices
• Real customer feedback
• Transparency in providing information about the product’s limitations
• Long-term support

While not all of these factors were considered every time, we included them where relevant.

Check out our complete B2B software evaluation methodology.

Comparitech SupportScore Methodology

What makes us unique is our SupportScore methodology that takes into account the past, current, and likely customer support quality of a vendor. Some of the aspects that go into this calculation are:

• Availability of support teams
• Job satisfaction of employees
• Self-service resources and documentation
• Employee count
• Financial stability

Based on these factors, we score each vendor on a scale of 0 to 10.

To know more, visit our SupportScore Methodology page.

Why Trust Us?

At Comparitech, we take our reviews seriously. We want to provide the most up to date and relevant information, so you can make the right decisions based on it. This is why we combine multiple areas to give paint an accurate picture of every tool and vendor.

When you read through our reviews, you can rest assured that you always have well-researched and insightful content that’s based on real-world case studies.