Introduction

Managed File Transfer (MFT) is an enterprise-class software category designed to provide secure, automated, and auditable data movement between systems, employees, and external partners. Unlike standard file-sharing apps, MFT solutions offer a centralized platform to manage the entire lifecycle of data in transit. They replace fragmented “scripts and cron jobs” with a governed workflow that includes end-to-end encryption, non-repudiation, and granular access controls.

The importance of MFT tools lies in their ability to mitigate the risks associated with human error and insecure protocols. Key real-world use cases include the automated exchange of payroll data with banks, the transmission of patient records in healthcare, and the high-volume movement of EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) files in global supply chains. When choosing an MFT tool, organizations should evaluate them based on protocol support (SFTP, AS2, HTTPS), automation complexity, scalability (high availability), and the depth of their compliance reporting.

Best for: Large-scale enterprises, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies that handle sensitive data at high volumes. It is also essential for IT administrators who need to consolidate “shadow IT” and disparate scripts into a single, compliant dashboard.

Not ideal for: Solo freelancers or very small businesses with occasional, non-sensitive file sharing needs. For these users, standard secure cloud storage or basic encrypted email may be a more cost-effective and less complex alternative.

Top 10 Secure File Transfer (MFT) Tools

1 — GoAnywhere MFT (by Fortra)

GoAnywhere MFT is a flagship managed file transfer solution known for its highly intuitive, browser-based interface and powerful multi-platform automation capabilities. It simplifies the movement of data between on-premises systems and the cloud.

• Key features:
  • Automated workflow engine with “drag-and-drop” project building.
  • Support for advanced protocols like AS2, SFTP, FTPS, and PeSIT.
  • Integrated “Secure Mail” for ad-hoc file sharing via Outlook.
  • Advanced reporting and auditing for compliance (GDPR, PCI DSS).
  • Robust “Cloud Connectors” for AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
  • Active-active clustering for high availability and load balancing.
• Pros:
  • Extremely user-friendly; non-programmers can build complex automated workflows.
  • Exceptional flexibility in terms of deployment (on-premise, cloud, or hybrid).
• Cons:
  • The licensing model can become expensive as you add more modules or connectors.
  • Can be resource-intensive for very small server environments.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS, FIPS 140-2, and SSO integration.
• Support & community: High-quality enterprise support with a very active user forum and a comprehensive knowledge base.

2 — Progress MOVEit

MOVEit is one of the most recognized names in the MFT space, specifically favored by the finance and healthcare industries for its “hardened” security posture and tamper-evident logging.

• Key features:
  • Tamper-evident database for all file transfer logs.
  • MOVEit Automation for advanced, script-free scheduling.
  • MOVEit Transfer for secure “person-to-person” collaboration.
  • Multi-tenancy support for managed service providers (MSPs).
  • Built-in antivirus and data loss prevention (DLP) integrations.
  • DMZ Proxy to keep sensitive data outside the internal network.
• Pros:
  • Unmatched compliance reporting that is specifically tailored for audits.
  • Very strong integration with the Microsoft ecosystem (Azure and Windows).
• Cons:
  • The administrative interface can feel dated compared to newer SaaS rivals.
  • Setup and configuration for high-availability clusters can be complex.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2 validated, HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR, and ISO 27001 compliant.
• Support & community: Offers 24/7 global support with a dedicated customer success portal.

3 — Globalscape EFT (by Fortra)

Globalscape Enhanced File Transfer (EFT) is a high-performance MFT platform designed for extreme scalability and military-grade security. It is often the choice for organizations requiring complex logic in their file workflows.

• Key features:
  • Event Rules engine for deep, logic-based automation.
  • Workload acceleration for high-latency or high-volume transfers.
  • Advanced Authentication Manager (AAM) for modern identity protocols.
  • Comprehensive visibility with the Auditing and Reporting Module (ARM).
  • Integrated DMZ gateway to prevent data from landing in the DMZ.
• Pros:
  • Exceptionally stable under heavy loads; ideal for petabyte-scale environments.
  • The “Event Rules” feature allows for highly customized business logic.
• Cons:
  • Higher total cost of ownership (TCO) compared to mid-market tools.
  • Steeper learning curve for mastering advanced automation rules.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR, and SOC 2.
• Support & community: Professional services are available for architecture design and custom implementations.

4 — IBM Aspera

IBM Aspera stands apart from traditional MFT tools due to its focus on speed. It utilizes the proprietary FASP (Fast and Secure Protocol) to move data over long distances up to 100x faster than traditional FTP/HTTP.

• Key features:
  • FASP protocol for high-speed transfers regardless of file size or network distance.
  • Aspera Faspex for ad-hoc “person-to-person” messaging.
  • Integrated monitoring and bandwidth control to prevent network congestion.
  • Mobile and browser-based clients for global accessibility.
  • Robust SDK for embedding Aspera technology into custom apps.
• Pros:
  • The undisputed king of speed; essential for media and big data industries.
  • Highly resilient over unreliable or high-latency satellite connections.
• Cons:
  • Extremely expensive; primarily an enterprise-only solution.
  • Lacks some of the “business-logic” automation found in traditional MFTs.
• Security & compliance: AES-256 encryption, FIPS 140-2, HIPAA, and GDPR.
• Support & community: Backed by IBM’s global enterprise support infrastructure.

5 — Cleo Integration Cloud (MFT)

Cleo focuses on the convergence of MFT and EDI. It is designed for companies that need to manage both internal file movements and external B2B partner integrations within a single cloud platform.

• Key features:
  • Unified platform for MFT, EDI, and API-based integrations.
  • 900+ pre-built business connectors for rapid onboarding.
  • Real-time dashboard for end-to-end visibility of supply chain data.
  • Self-service portal for partners to upload/download files securely.
  • Automated error handling and proactive alerting.
• Pros:
  • Best-in-class for supply chain and logistics companies that need MFT + EDI.
  • Excellent error handling and automated re-try logic.
• Cons:
  • Can be overkill if you only need “person-to-person” secure file sharing.
  • The broad feature set leads to a complex initial configuration.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and GDPR.
• Support & community: Strong emphasis on customer success with dedicated account managers.

6 — JSCAPE (by Redwood)

Recently acquired by Redwood, JSCAPE MFT is a platform-independent solution designed to simplify the automation and management of secure file transfers. It is particularly popular for its “any protocol, any platform” philosophy.

• Key features:
  • Support for nearly every protocol including AS2, OFTP2, and AFTP.
  • Platform-independent (runs on Windows, Linux, Solaris, and macOS).
  • Advanced “Trigger” system for no-code automation.
  • Native integration with cloud storage like S3, Azure Blob, and Google Cloud.
  • Ad-hoc file transfer via a web-based client or Outlook plugin.
• Pros:
  • One of the best values in the MFT market; packs many enterprise features at a lower price.
  • The platform-independent nature makes it easy to migrate across server types.
• Cons:
  • Documentation can be slightly less comprehensive than the legacy giants like IBM.
  • The UI is functional but lacks the modern “gloss” of cloud-native apps.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and GDPR.
• Support & community: Responsive technical support and a growing user base.

7 — Axway Managed File Transfer

Axway provides a highly secure, governable MFT solution that is part of their broader Amplify platform, focusing heavily on API-led integration.

• Key features:
  • Centralized governance for global, distributed file transfer environments.
  • SecureTransport gateway for multi-protocol edge security.
  • Integration with API Management for modern digital business.
  • Rich operational intelligence and predictive analytics.
  • Automated provisioning of flows for rapid partner onboarding.
• Pros:
  • Superior for organizations moving toward an “API-first” architecture.
  • Provides excellent visibility into historical data for audit readiness.
• Cons:
  • The complexity is high; requires dedicated administrators to manage.
  • Implementation times can be longer due to the depth of the platform.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2, Common Criteria, HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI DSS.
• Support & community: Deep enterprise expertise with a focus on large financial and insurance sectors.

8 — SolarWinds Serv-U MFT

SolarWinds Serv-U is an excellent mid-market solution that balances ease of use with robust security. It is particularly favored by IT admins who already use the SolarWinds Orion platform.

• Key features:
  • Simple, easy-to-use web interface for admins and end-users.
  • Support for SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS protocols.
  • Automated file management (delete, move, or run scripts post-transfer).
  • Peer-to-peer file sharing and ad-hoc file requests.
  • Integration with Active Directory and LDAP for user management.
• Pros:
  • Very fast to deploy and configure; “it just works.”
  • Competitive pricing makes it accessible for smaller IT teams.
• Cons:
  • Lacks the extreme high-availability features of top-tier enterprise tools.
  • Not suitable for complex EDI or multi-step B2B logic.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2, HIPAA, and PCI DSS compliant.
• Support & community: Benefits from the massive SolarWinds community (THWACK) and extensive knowledge base.

9 — CData Arc

CData Arc is a modern, lightweight MFT and EDI solution that focuses on ease of use and rapid deployment for growing businesses.

• Key features:
  • Visual flow designer with a drag-and-drop interface.
  • Seamless integration with 100+ SaaS applications (Salesforce, QuickBooks).
  • Native support for AS2, AS4, and SFTP.
  • Secure, web-based admin portal.
  • Lightweight architecture that can run on simple cloud instances.
• Pros:
  • Exceptionally modern UI that feels like a contemporary SaaS app.
  • Very strong for businesses that need to connect MFT directly to their ERP or CRM.
• Cons:
  • Lacks the “military-grade” depth of Globalscape or Progress.
  • Support for extremely high concurrency is still evolving.
• Security & compliance: SSO, AES encryption, GDPR, and HIPAA compliant features.
• Support & community: Growing community with great video tutorials and documentation.

10 — Redwood RunMyJobs (MFT Integration)

Redwood takes a unique approach by embedding MFT directly into their broader workload automation platform. It is designed for businesses that want file transfers to be a native part of their IT job scheduling.

• Key features:
  • Full integration of MFT into enterprise job scheduling.
  • Cloud-native architecture with zero-install agents.
  • End-to-end visibility of the entire business process, not just the transfer.
  • Intelligent auto-scaling for varying transfer volumes.
  • Built-in error remediation and automated restart logic.
• Pros:
  • Eliminates silos between “file transfer” and “IT automation.”
  • Provides a holistic view of how file transfers impact the entire business.
• Cons:
  • Not a standalone MFT tool; you generally buy it as part of the Redwood platform.
  • Complexity is high for users who only want simple file movement.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR.
• Support & community: Extensive enterprise support and professional services network.

Comparison Table

Evaluation & Scoring of Secure File Transfer (MFT) Tools

Choosing the right MFT tool requires a balanced approach. While security is paramount, a tool that is too difficult to use will lead to “shadow IT” where employees bypass the secure system in favor of easier, insecure methods.

Which Secure File Transfer (MFT) Tool Is Right for You?

The “best” tool is entirely dependent on your organization’s size, industry, and the specific nature of your data flows.

• Solo Users & Freelancers: Managed File Transfer is likely overkill for your needs. Consider secure cloud storage with end-to-end encryption or simple PGP-encrypted email.
• Small to Medium Businesses (SMBs): Look for a balance of price and automation. GoAnywhere MFT or SolarWinds Serv-U provide excellent features without requiring a PhD in storage networking.
• Mid-market Enterprises: If you are in a regulated industry like finance, Progress MOVEit is a safe bet due to its audit-heavy features. If you are a growing tech company, CData Arc offers a more modern, cloud-centric feel.
• Large-scale Enterprises: For complex logic and massive volume, Globalscape EFT or Axway are the heavyweights. If you are moving massive media files or datasets, IBM Aspera is essentially non-negotiable.
• Industry-Specific Needs: Supply chain and retail firms should prioritize Cleo for its native EDI support. Companies looking to consolidate their entire IT scheduling should consider Redwood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between SFTP and MFT?

SFTP is a protocol used to transfer files securely. MFT is a software platform that uses protocols (like SFTP) but adds automation, auditing, security, and administrative controls on top of them.

2. Is Managed File Transfer more secure than the cloud (e.g., Dropbox)?

Yes, for enterprise use. While Dropbox is secure, MFT provides the granular control, automation, and audit trails required to prove compliance during a regulatory audit.

3. Do I need a specialized server to run these tools?

Most MFT tools can run on standard Windows or Linux servers (on-premise or in the cloud). Some, like MOVEit Cloud or GoAnywhere SaaS, require no server at all from your end.

4. How long does it take to implement an MFT solution?

A basic implementation (like SolarWinds) can take a few hours. A full enterprise rollout with complex workflows and partner onboarding (like Axway) can take weeks or months.

5. Can MFT tools handle “Big Data”?

Yes, but performance varies. For massive files (GBs to TBs), tools like IBM Aspera are specifically optimized for high-speed transfer over long distances.

6. Are these tools expensive?

Prices vary wildly. A mid-market tool might cost a few thousand dollars annually, while an enterprise platform can easily reach six figures depending on the number of users and connections.

7. Do I need coding skills to use these tools?

Modern MFTs like GoAnywhere and CData Arc use “no-code” or “low-code” visual designers, making them accessible to IT generalists without deep scripting knowledge.

8. Can I use MFT for internal file movements?

Absolutely. Many companies use MFT to move files between internal departments (e.g., HR to Payroll) to ensure data privacy and to create an audit trail.

9. What is “Ad-Hoc” file transfer?

This refers to “person-to-person” transfers that aren’t part of a scheduled batch process, such as an employee sending a secure sensitive document to a client.

10. Is Managed File Transfer becoming obsolete because of APIs?

No. While APIs are growing, file-based transfers (especially EDI) remain the backbone of the global economy. Modern MFT tools now incorporate APIs to offer the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

The market for Secure File Transfer tools is more diverse than ever. Whether you are a small healthcare clinic looking to secure patient records or a global media conglomerate moving 4K video across continents, there is a solution tailored to your needs. When choosing your tool, remember that compliance is a result, not a feature. The “best” tool is the one that fits seamlessly into your current workflow while providing the transparency and security your auditors—and your customers—demand.