The 10 Best MFT Software & Solutions in 2024 & How to Choose the Right One for Your Needs

In the digital era, organizations face the challenge of managing and transferring sensitive data in a secure, efficient, and compliant manner. Traditional file transfer methods such as file transfer protocol (FTP), email attachments, and even physical media have become obsolete due to scalability issues, lack of encryption, and poor monitoring capabilities. Managed file transfer (MFT) software provides a comprehensive solution for these challenges by enabling secure, automated, and reliable file transfers across different platforms, protocols, and networks.

In this article, we will explore the top ten MFT software solutions for 2024. Whether you are looking for a comprehensive platform with advanced automation features or a more basic tool for file transfers, we’ll guide you through the best options available. Let’s dive into understanding what MFT software is and how to choose the right one for your business needs.

What is MFT software?

Managed File Transfer (MFT) software is a technology that automates and secures the transfer of files across a network. It is an advanced, secure alternative to traditional methods such as FTP or HTTP, providing features like encryption, auditing, compliance with regulations (such as GDPR or HIPAA), and automation for efficiency. With MFT, businesses can move sensitive data like financial records, customer information, and proprietary documents across systems, departments, or even geographical locations safely and quickly.

MFT software plays a vital role in industries such as healthcare, finance, and government sectors, where secure, auditable file transfers are crucial for maintaining compliance and ensuring privacy. MFT solutions are built to handle large volumes of files, offer centralized control and monitoring, and provide a layer of protection against cyber threats.

Key benefits of using MFT software

• Security: One of the primary benefits of MFT software is its advanced security features. With capabilities like encryption (at rest and in transit), multifactor authentication (MFA), and secure protocols (e.g., SFTP, HTTPS), businesses can protect their sensitive data from unauthorized access.
• Automation: MFT solutions automate file transfers, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This reduces the risk of human error, speeds up processes, and ensures that critical business files are delivered on time.
• Audit trails and compliance: MFT solutions provide detailed audit logs of all file transfers, enabling businesses to track and report on their data exchanges. This is particularly important for organizations that need to comply with industry regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or SOX.
• Centralized control and monitoring: MFT software provides a single platform to manage, monitor, and control all file transfers within an organization, regardless of the size or complexity of the network.

Essential features to look for in MFT solutions

When selecting MFT software, there are a few key features you should consider:

• Encryption: Ensure that the MFT solution offers strong encryption (such as AES-256) for files both in transit and at rest.
• Supported protocols: Look for support for various secure transfer protocols such as SFTP, FTPS, HTTPS, and AS2.
• Automation and scheduling: The ability to automate and schedule file transfers is crucial for ensuring timely and error-free transfers.
• Audit trails: Ensure the software provides detailed logs of all file transfer activities for compliance and monitoring purposes.
• Scalability: If your business grows, your MFT software should be able to handle increased file transfer volumes without compromising performance.
• Compliance and certifications: If your industry is governed by specific regulations, make sure the MFT tool is compliant with standards like the GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS.

Now that you understand the fundamentals of MFT software, let's dive into the best solutions available in 2024.

The 10 Best MFT software solutions available in 2024

We’ve analyzed the top 10 MFT solutions based on several key criteria, including pricing, features, user experience, and customer support. Below is a comparison of these platforms, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

1. CData Arc

Overview: CData Arc provides an integrated suite of MFT tools designed for automating secure and reliable data exchange between business partners. It supports a wide range of protocols (SFTP, FTPS, AS2) and offers automation features to simplify workflows.

• Pros: Flexible protocol support, easy setup, automation tools, cutting-edge encryption
• Cons: May provide more features than necessary for simple ad-hoc or manual file transfer use cases
• Best for: Enterprises looking for a scalable solution to leverage the benefits of automation

2. ActiveBatch

Overview: ActiveBatch is an automation platform that integrates MFT into larger business workflows. It offers centralized monitoring and supports a wide range of protocols.

• Pros: Automation and integration capabilities, centralized monitoring
• Cons: Complex pricing structure
• Best for: Organizations needing both file transfer and process automation

3. Axway Managed File Transfer

Overview: Axway provides an MFT solution designed for enterprises with sensitive data transfer needs. It focuses on security, compliance, and reliability, making it a great option for highly regulated industries.

• Pros: Security features, strong compliance tools
• Cons: Expensive, steep learning curve
• Best for: Large enterprises in highly regulated industries

4. BMC Control-M

Overview: BMC Control-M is an automation and orchestration platform that includes MFT capabilities. It supports a wide variety of file transfer protocols and offers end-to-end visibility into file transfer processes.

• Pros: Full orchestration capabilities, secure, good option for large-scale operation
• Cons: High cost, requires specialized training
• Best for: Large organizations requiring extensive process automation

5. DataMotion

Overview: DataMotion focuses on secure messaging and file transfers, making it ideal for businesses needing a simple, compliant file transfer solution. It emphasizes encryption and data privacy.

• Pros: Easy to use, secure, affordable
• Cons: Limited advanced features for automation and integration
• Best for: Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with strict security needs

6. GoAnywhere MFT

Overview: GoAnywhere MFT is known for its ease of use and combination of file transfer and cloud storage capabilities. It supports file sharing across distributed networks and organizations to streamline collaboration.

• Pros: Easy to use, enhances collaboration across silos
• Cons: Limited data transformation, integration, and validation options
• Best for: Businesses with complex cross-network file sharing needs

7. JSCAPE MFT Server

Overview: JSCAPE offers a no-nonsense MFT solution that supports a variety of transfer protocols. It provides real-time monitoring and automation features to streamline file transfer processes.

• Pros: User-friendly, affordable, real-time monitoring
• Cons: Limited integration options or advanced features
• Best for: Small or mid-sized companies looking for straightforward MFT solutions

8. MOVEit

Overview: MOVEit is a popular MFT solution with a strong focus on security and compliance. It offers a comprehensive feature set for automating file transfers and managing complex workflows.

• Pros: Highly secure, compliance-focused, excellent customer support
• Cons: Can be costly for smaller businesses
• Best for: Enterprises with strict security and compliance requirements

9. SolarWinds Serv-U

Overview: SolarWinds Serv-U is an affordable MFT solution geared toward small to mid-sized businesses. It offers basic file transfer functionalities with an intuitive interface.

• Pros: Affordable, easy to use
• Cons: Lacks advanced automation and customization options
• Best for: SMBs looking for an affordable and simple file transfer solution

10. Stonebranch

Overview: Stonebranch offers a robust MFT solution integrated into a broader orchestration platform. It’s designed for enterprises needing to handle complex workflows involving file transfers.

• Pros: Powerful automation and orchestration features
• Cons: Requires expertise to configure
• Best for: Large enterprises with complex IT infrastructures

How to choose the right MFT software

Selecting the right MFT software for your organization depends on several key factors:

• Business size and complexity: If you are a small business, you may not need the full range of features offered by high-end MFT solutions. Simple, affordable options like SolarWinds Serv-U or DataMotion may be more appropriate. Larger enterprises, on the other hand, may require tools with more advanced automation, scalability, and security, such as CData Arc or Axway.
• Security and compliance: If your industry is regulated by compliance standards like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS, ensure that the MFT software you choose provides the necessary encryption, audit logs, and certifications. Solutions like MOVEit and Axway are known for their strong compliance features.
• Integration and automation: If you need your MFT solution to integrate with other software tools or systems, consider a platform like ActiveBatch or BMC Control-M that offers broad automation and orchestration capabilities.
• Budget: Pricing can vary significantly among MFT solutions. While premium solutions like Axway or BMC Control-M come with advanced features, they may be overkill for smaller organizations. Assess your budget and determine which features are essential for your business needs.
• Ease of use: Consider how easy it is to deploy and manage the MFT software. Some solutions, like GoAnywhere MFT and JSCAPE MFT Server, are known for their user-friendly interfaces, while others may require more technical expertise.

CData Arc blends power and simplicity for MFT

CData Arc strikes a compelling balance between simplicity and power. MFT platforms often force decision-makers to weigh the importance of ease-of-use and scalability against the importance of advanced automation and integration features.

Arc bucks this trend by pairing a wide variety of MFT protocols, automation, and data integration features with a streamlined and modern UI that cuts down on setup and overhead. Its excellent customer support helps establish it as a top choice for businesses of all sizes.