File Transfer Automation: Scripting vs. Managed File Transfer

File transfer is essential to many business processes. It provides a straightforward way for trading partners to share critical information. But many file transfer tasks are tedious and repetitive. As a result, many system administrators today use scripting to automate file transfer processes, such as FTP uploads or downloads. But scripting isn't the only choice. This article compares scripting with another option, managed file transfer, and shows how MFT is vastly superior.ScriptingScripting has become a popular method for automating file transfer because it's included at no extra cost as a part of most operating systems. Commercial and open-source operating systems offer built-in FTP client and server capabilities with scripting languages, such as bash, Shell, VBScript, and Windows PowerShell. You can then use a tool like Windows Scheduler to execute your scripts.But while you don't have to pay for scripting languages, you stand to incur a number of hidden costs from using them.1. You Need to Write Your Own ScriptsFor starters, your organization needs to have someone on staff or hire an outside consultant to write what can often be complicated scripts. That individual must have a programming background and familiarity with scripting languages.2. Limited FunctionalityBecause they are not full-fledged applications, ...


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