What Are the Key Differences Between MFT and SFTP?

• Understanding MFT vs. SFTP

  Understanding MFT vs. SFTP

  Before discussing some key differences between Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) and Managed File Transfer (MFT), let’s review each protocol in detail.

  What Is SFTP?

  SFTP allows organizations to securely transfer files over an encrypted connection, unlike traditional FTP, which transfers files in plaintext. Operating over Secure Shell (SSH), SFTP uses encryption algorithms, such as Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Blowfish, or the Standard Hashing Algorithm, to encrypt data and commands during transfer. Before transferring any data, users must be authenticated through a user ID and password combination or an SSH key.

  This protocol relies on a single connection and a single port for sending and receiving data, which further increases security. There are fewer potential access points for unauthorized users to exploit, and it’s much simpler to configure firewall settings. SFTP also sends data in a format humans can’t easily read—binary mode.

  Beyond simple file transfer, users can compress and decompress files, change file permissions, organize and delete files and directories, and more. SFTP is used mostly to secure transfers between organizations and partners and add data to backup servers.

  What Is MFT?

  MFT enhances file transfers by supporting other protocols, such as SFTP, Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), Applicability Statement 2 (AS2), and File Transfer Protocol Secure (FTPS). This allows organizations to move large amounts of data securely and reliably.

  MFT solutions also offer automation capabilities, such as scheduling, facilitating scheduled batch transfers, retry and resume options for error handling, notifications of completed file transfers, and other features that simplify reporting and compliance. MFT’s key features include file integrity, comprehensive reporting, file transfer activity tracking, and nonrepudiation through digital signatures from participating parties.

  After an IT administrator initializes it, the MFT solution authenticates users, encrypts files, and monitors the transfer. MFT also logs activities and generates reports on transfer success rates, security threats, error frequencies, and usage trends.

  Thanks to MFT’s reliability, scalability, and high level of security, businesses in the financial, healthcare, and governmental sectors all count on MFT solutions for their file transfer activities.
• Comparing MFT vs. SFTP

  Comparing MFT vs. SFTP

  MFT and SFTP are popular options for organizations seeking reliable, efficient, and secure file transfer systems. However, there are some differences between SFTP and MFT with regards to security, capabilities, ease of use, and compliance.

  MFT vs. SFTP include the following differences.

  Security Features

  SFTP and MFT are strong options for organizations with sensitive data seeking a secure file transfer solution.

  As an SSH-based protocol, SFTP encrypts all data and file transfers using a secure SSH tunnel. Since SFTP offers end-to-end encryption using strong cryptographic algorithms, such as Blowfish, AES, or Triple Data Encryption Standard, users must verify their identity using SSH keys or passwords to issue commands or access transferred files.

  SFTP uses a single port—usually port 22—for data and control channels, which minimizes vulnerabilities and simplifies firewall setup. SFTP also offers host/server authentication and will verify data integrity.

  MFT expands on SFTP’s security measures, raising the bar for data protection. Like SFTP, MFT offers end-to-end encryption and can operate alongside firewalls. Additionally, MFT has data at rest encryption to help safeguard data while it’s stored on a server. It can also automatically scan for viruses and notify administrators when necessary.

  MFT offers audit trails, end-user multifactor authentication mechanisms, detailed logs, and electronic receipts to confirm when files reach their intended destination. It has powerful user access control mechanisms, meaning IT administrators can assign permissions based on roles or departments, restrict access to specific files or folders, and monitor user activity in real time to help prevent unauthorized access and ensure data integrity.

  Functionality and Capabilities

  When organizations decide to use SFTP to transfer files, all data will be transferred using its secure file transfer. However, if they use an MFT solution, they can take advantage of other protocols MFT supports, including SFTP, FTPS, AS2, and HTTPS.

  MFT also offers more in terms of automation and workflow management. SFTP is an excellent choice for secure file transfers and includes several file management capabilities, such as file renaming, directory deletion, and resume functionality when file transfers are interrupted. However, it can lack built-in automation capabilities. On the other hand, MFT solutions are generally packed with features, such as workflow automation, auditing, monitoring, and scheduling.

  Compared to MFT, SFTP can be more limited in performance and scalability, since SFTP was originally designed to help users securely transfer files. MFT solutions build on that design to deal with high volumes of file transfers between several systems and users without sacrificing performance or reliability. Some MFT solutions also have clustering features, enabling IT administrators to add nodes and quickly scale their MFT environment.

  Ease of Use and Implementation

  SFTP solutions are generally more minimalistic than MFT ones as they’re primarily focused on secure file transfer with some management options. On the other hand, an MFT solution might have a dashboard that displays file transfer activities in a centralized location, making it a powerful management and visibility tool for IT teams.

  While SFTP and MFT can integrate with other systems, MFT solutions have more complex integration capabilities. MFT platforms were specifically created to seamlessly integrate with business applications, cloud storage, databases, end-to-end workflows, and entire enterprise systems.

  However, the learning curve is often steeper since MFT solutions are more complicated than SFTP. Configuration can be more complex, and effectively navigating and managing the platform can take time, but most MFT solutions have incredibly user-friendly interfaces, and many feature automation tools.

  Compliance and Auditing

  SFTP is reasonably secure and can help organizations meet many of the requirements laid out in regulations, such as the Sarbanes–Oxley Act (SOX), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). However, MFT offers more security features, enabling organizations to go above and beyond common regulatory compliance requirements.

  Unlike SFTP, which lacks data at rest encryption, MFT delivers true end-to-end encryption, securing files both in storage and in use and fully aligning with HIPAA’s encryption standards for electronically protected health information. MFT solutions also include robust reporting and auditing capabilities, allowing organizations to generate compliance reports and track file transfers and user access. MFT also supports role-based access controls, helping organizations manage data efficiently in line with internal policies and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Benefits of Adopting an MFT Solution

  Benefits of Adopting an MFT Solution

  MFT is known for its security, efficiency, and wide range of features. Thanks to its detailed logging capabilities, automation options, centralized control, and end-to-end encryption for data in transit and at rest, it’s become a go-to option for many organizations.

  When you adopt an MFT solution, you can expect:

  • Enhanced security and risk mitigation: MFT solutions offer secure end-to-end encryption standards and authentication processes. They use proxy servers and user access controls to help protect data from unauthorized access and external threats. When combined with MFT’s detailed logging capabilities and audit trails, these security measures help organizations quickly detect and respond to potential security incidents. As a result, organizations can better minimize data breach risks, maintain compliance with industry regulations, and uphold trust with clients and partners.
  • Improved operational efficiency: MFT solutions can help streamline the data transfer process due to automation features and centralized management capabilities. They also offer resume capabilities and automated retry options, helping to ensure that interrupted transfers are completed successfully without manual intervention. This reduces the risk of data loss and minimizes downtime without requiring workers’ valuable time.
  • Better visibility and control over file transfers: MFT solutions offer a centralized platform to oversee file transfer activities comprehensively. Users can monitor transfer statuses in real time, enabling immediate identification of any issues or delays. Detailed activity logs provide an audit trail, allowing users to trace file movements and access histories.
  • Streamlined compliance management: MFT solutions can make a big difference with regards to compliance requirements. Not only do MFT solutions have comprehensive audit trails for file transfers, but they can also generate in-depth reports. With MFT, organizations can more easily meet compliance standards, such as HIPAA, GDPR, SOX, or PCI DSS.
  • Cost savings and return on investment: MFT solutions can offer financial benefits. While it may require an upfront investment, an MFT solution can help organizations save time and money in the long run. Not only will organizations be able to reduce or eliminate many of the tasks and costs that come with manually transferring files, but they can also meet compliance requirements, avoiding potentially hefty noncompliance fees.
• When to Choose SFTP vs. MFT

  When to Choose SFTP vs. MFT

  SFTP and MFT are strong choices for organizations seeking secure, efficient file transfer solutions. Which one is right for you? It depends on your needs.

  SFTP offers platform flexibility, SSH-based encryption, and file management features, such as renaming and deleting directories. It’s secure, relies on a single port, integrates easily with firewalls, and is relatively simple to set up and manage. SFTP is ideal for straightforward file transfers—especially if security is your main concern, you have limited IT resources, or you don’t require extensive management capabilities.

  MFT might be the better option if you’re looking for a more complex file transfer process offering automation and workflow management. With MFT, you can schedule file transfers, benefit from automated retries for failed transfers, receive automatic notifications, and more.

  For highly sensitive information, MFT also outperforms SFTP regarding regulatory compliance. In industries such as healthcare and finance, where noncompliance with regulations such as HIPAA or PCI DSS can have major negative effects, MFT provides the necessary tools and features to help organizations maintain compliance effortlessly.

  Ultimately, your decision depends on your organization’s specific requirements. Carefully assessing your needs will help you choose between SFTP and MFT, ensuring your file transfer processes align with operational goals and security standards.