Managed File Transfer 101: Creating a Solid Network Infrastructure

NOTTINGHAM, England, August 22, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --

In today's global business environment when employees dispersed around the world need to be able to exchange data across their networks securely and effectively, a solid IT infrastructure is an organisation's safety net.

For many enterprises, File Transfer Servers (FTS) are the back-bone of their network. Essentially a computer within the client/server model responsible for the central storage and management of data files, an FTS allows other computers on the same network to access the files and data housed on the FTS. A file transfer server adds value to any enterprise by providing users with the ability to share information over a network without having to physically transfer files with external storage devices or via email.

Yet, as business becomes increasingly global and the number of files being shared by employees across regions increases, alongside the need for real-time collaboration, organisations increasingly need both a high level of security and additional capabilities from their FTS. This is where a Managed File Transfer Server (MFTS) offering maximum security and enhanced features comes into its own.

So what are the benefits of an MFTS? Firstly, it's important to note that both FTS and MFTS platforms share some common traits, that are worth outlining.

1: Simple, secure sharing of business data 

Enterprise grade, high performance File Transfer Servers enable your remote workforce to securely share and access files from anywhere. This is achieved from solutions that support an array of protocols including FTP/S, SCP, SFTP, WebDAV, HTTP/S.

2: Remote security and administration 

Whether you're a small business or a fortune 500 company, effective File Transfer Servers provide user management and permissions that are flexible enough to cater to any environment. FTS solutions should provide your network with the ability to manage users or groups with built-in directory or by connecting to your Active Directory. This includes the ability to manage permissions to all files and locations with fine-grained policies.

3: Reliability from trace-ability 

Effective FTS solutions let your IT staff watch every file transfer to and from your network. This provides the ability to track every user's remote actions and see which files they have remotely accessed. Ideally this capability should operate in real-time, and includes notification of any event happening within your network.

4: End to end remote security 

Last but not least, an effective FTS keeps your data safe. This includes secure authentication across browsers and within the native clients which discourages unauthorized access to your network. This security should also include a multi-factor authentication.

In addition, MFTS solutions offer a number of enhanced capabilities over and above this that give organisations with operations in various locations greater network security and peace of mind.

Some of the particular features of MFTS that are worth looking out for here include:

• Ad-hoc File Sharing
• File encryption, such as PGP, Zip or SMIME
• Auditing
• Ability to execute tasks based on system events or automated schedule
• Anti-virus integration
• An architecture that means there is no storage of files in the DMZ (perimeter network)
• Integration with Enterprise DB
• WAN optimisation to increase the speed of access to critical applications and information
• Security to meet compliance standards including PCI and DSS

As well as these technical advantages, Managed File Transfer Servers often come with increased vendor support and additional training, vital for building employee trust and confidence as networks become more complex.

There are arguably several different flavours of Managed File Transfer Servers on the market. Assessing the above criteria will enable organisations to find the best solution - whether that's FTS or MFTS solution and ensure that their network's back-end has a robust and secure backbone.

Notes to Editors 

About Hypersocket Software 

Hypersocket Software provides enterprise level network security and access management software to help businesses create more secure IT environments. Affordable Single Sign-On, Managed File Transfer Server and Virtual Private Networking products give organisations of all sizes the tools to enable people to work smarter and more securely. And by creating solutions that focus on areas where security is paramount and tackling the IT security challenges that businesses face every day, Hypersocket Software provides customers not only with peace-of-mind but also an outstanding return on investment.

Press contacts
Stephanie Dobson
Lumiere PR Limited
Direct: +44(0)7831-623-533
Stephanie@lumierepr.com

Reha Joshi
Hypersocket Software
Reha@hypersocket.com