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Top 6 AS2 Software in 2024 based on 1k+ Reviews

Updated on Apr 15
7 min read
Written by
Cem Dilmegani
Cem Dilmegani
Cem Dilmegani

Cem has been the principal analyst at AIMultiple since 2017. AIMultiple informs hundreds of thousands of businesses (as per similarWeb) including 55% of Fortune 500 every month. Cem's work has been cited by leading global publications including Business Insider, Forbes, Washington Post, global firms like Deloitte, HPE and NGOs like World Economic Forum and supranational organizations like European Commission. You can see more reputable companies and resources that referenced AIMultiple. Throughout his career, Cem served as a tech consultant, tech buyer and tech entrepreneur. He advised enterprises on their technology decisions at McKinsey & Company and Altman Solon for more than a decade. He also published a McKinsey report on digitalization. He led technology strategy and procurement of a telco while reporting to the CEO. He has also led commercial growth of deep tech company Hypatos that reached a 7 digit annual recurring revenue and a 9 digit valuation from 0 within 2 years. Cem's work in Hypatos was covered by leading technology publications like TechCrunch and Business Insider. Cem regularly speaks at international technology conferences. He graduated from Bogazici University as a computer engineer and holds an MBA from Columbia Business School.

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Drafted by
Cem Dilmegani
Cem Dilmegani
Cem Dilmegani

Cem has been the principal analyst at AIMultiple since 2017. AIMultiple informs hundreds of thousands of businesses (as per similarWeb) including 55% of Fortune 500 every month. Cem's work has been cited by leading global publications including Business Insider, Forbes, Washington Post, global firms like Deloitte, HPE and NGOs like World Economic Forum and supranational organizations like European Commission. You can see more reputable companies and resources that referenced AIMultiple. Throughout his career, Cem served as a tech consultant, tech buyer and tech entrepreneur. He advised enterprises on their technology decisions at McKinsey & Company and Altman Solon for more than a decade. He also published a McKinsey report on digitalization. He led technology strategy and procurement of a telco while reporting to the CEO. He has also led commercial growth of deep tech company Hypatos that reached a 7 digit annual recurring revenue and a 9 digit valuation from 0 within 2 years. Cem's work in Hypatos was covered by leading technology publications like TechCrunch and Business Insider. Cem regularly speaks at international technology conferences. He graduated from Bogazici University as a computer engineer and holds an MBA from Columbia Business School.

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AS2, or Applicability Statement 2, is a secure file transfer protocol for businesses that require secure and reliable data transport over the Internet. It is crucial in Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) software, commonly used in the retail industry due to the high volume of transactions and the sensitivity of the data exchanged between retailers, suppliers, and customers.

schema shows AS2 protocol operation

Source: AS2 protocol operation 1

Navigating through the vast AS2 software solutions can be daunting. This guide helps businesses understand the functionalities and effectiveness of these tools in modern business settings.

VendorsRating*Free TrialEmployee SizePrice
JSCAPE MFT by Redwood4.7 based on 118 reviews201-500Starting from:
$4299/One Time
Cleo4.6 based on 538 reviews201-500Not shared publicly
1 EDI Source4.7 based on 69 review201-500Not shared publicly
WinSCP4.6 based on 49 reviews51-200Not shared publicly
Citrix ShareFile4.5 based on 392 reviews5,000-10,000USD $82.50 per month
Files.com4.4 based on 132 reviews51-200Not shared publicly

What are our criteria for choosing the top As2 Software? 

  • User Reviews: We preferred solutions that received feedback from a minimum of 40 users on B2B review platforms such as G2 and Capterra, indicating a significant market presence validated by real user experiences.
  • Employee Size: Understanding the connection between a company’s income and the number of its employees, we focused on businesses that employ more than 50 people on LinkedIn.

Jscape MFT

JSCAPE MFT Server offers a robust set of features including encryption for secure data transmission, multiple authentication methods for enhanced security, automation capabilities for streamlined workflows, support for various file transfer protocols ensuring compatibility, auditing and logging for compliance purposes, high availability options for uninterrupted service, integration with other systems through APIs, additional security enhancements such as IP whitelisting, and compliance support for regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX.

Pros:

  • Users mentioned that JSCAPE has been highly useful for powerful and easy business process automation, as well as for its easy and flexible deployment. 2
  • According to users, JSCAPE excels in transferring and managing files, offering a user-friendly and easy-to-use interface, with customizable encryption to suit business requirements.3
  • Users noted that JSCAPE supports various protocols like FTP(S), SFTP, SCP, AFTP, OFTP, TFPT, HTTP/S, and praised its custom client, along with its distinct and efficient web interfaces for both clients and administrators.4

Cons:

  • Users find the UI challenging, and issues with large database management highlight the need for improved technological solutions.5
  • Users have experienced challenges in setting up a deployment pipeline for JSCAPE due to connection and server errors.6
  • One significant issue noted by users is the management of a large database, over 6GB, with the only solution offered being time-consuming maintenance processes. 7
as2 software JSCAPE review

Figure 1: A user review for JSCAPE 8

Cleo Integration Cloud

Cleo Integration Cloud offers file transfer services for businesses, particularly in logistics, manufacturing, and wholesale. Cleo’s solution streamlines B2B integration across various formats, emphasizing innovation in secure data exchanges with customers, suppliers, and partners.

Cleo’s platform stands out for its ability to enhance business agility and improve partner relationships through end-to-end transaction visibility and proactive error resolution. Its user-friendly, low-code environment is designed for both IT and operations teams, offering pre-built integrations and an intuitive UI. This empowers businesses with the tools needed for quick decision-making and operational management, fostering stronger relationships with supply chain partners and driving business success.

Pros:

  • Users enjoy Cleo for its user-friendly interface and innovative engagement methods, along with its reliable services. 9
  • The software’s reliability and support stand out, with users experiencing exceptional dependability and responsive customer service.10

Cons:

  • Despite its user-friendly design based on standards and templates, the tool may limit customization for those requiring more code-based, tailored integration solutions.11
  • Users report slowed processing with heavy data imports and reduced workflow efficiency; poor internet or server issues lead to automatic logouts without warning, and navigation within the software can be challenging.12

1 Edi Source

1 EDI Source offers AS2 software, a secure protocol for EDI over the Internet using HTTP/HTTPS. This enhances data encryption and authentication, ensuring safe and acknowledged transmission. It streamlines supply chain communications, offering security and real-time file transfers, more efficiently than traditional EDI methods.

By embracing 1 EDI Source’s AS2 software, businesses can enhance their supply chain operations. The software’s focus on security, coupled with its efficiency in data transmission, ensures that companies can maintain reliable communication channels with their trading partners. This modern approach to EDI not only streamlines processes but also fosters a more dynamic and responsive supply chain ecosystem.

Pros:

  • Tools centralized management and automation capabilities are particularly praised for enhancing efficiency. 13
  • This software boasts an intuitive interface, advanced mapping for tailored data queries, and automated EDI scheduling with proactive alerts for seamless operations in file transfers.14

Cons:

  • Users note the high costs associated with integrating new partners, which can limit expansion.15
  • The tool lacks in-depth documentation and user guides, often necessitating support calls when TWiki, the primary self-help resource, proves cumbersome and unhelpful for users seeking quick, independent solutions.16
as2 software review

Figure 2: A user review for 1 Edi Source17

WinSCP

WinSCP is a premier file transfer solution tailored for Windows users, supporting protocols such as SFTP, FTP, WebDAV, and SCP. It excels in facilitating file transfers between local and remote systems, complemented by robust scripting capabilities and essential file management functions.

Designed with the user in mind, WinSCP offers an intuitive interface that simplifies the complexity of file transfers, making it accessible for both technical and non-technical users. Whether for routine file management tasks or advanced automated operations, WinSCP provides a suite of features that enhance productivity and sensitive data, positioning it as suitable for Windows-based file transfer needs.

Pros:

  • Highly useful for robust business process automation and offers easy and flexible deployment.18
  • Known for its user-friendly and easy-to-use interface, with customizable encryption to suit specific business requirements.19
  • Supports various file transfer protocols like FTP(S), SFTP, SCP, AFTP, OFTP, TFPT, HTTP/S, praised for its custom client options and efficient web interfaces for clients and administrators.20

Cons:

  • Some users find the UI challenging, indicating a need for more intuitive design. 21
  • Difficulties in managing large databases, especially over 6GB, requiring time-consuming maintenance processes.22
  • Users experience challenges in setting up deployment pipelines due to connection and server errors.23
as2 software

Figure 3: A user review for WinSCP 24

Citrix ShareFile

Citrix ShareFile is a cloud-based platform offering secure file storage and distribution, easing network strain and providing backup solutions. It simplifies resource-intensive enterprise applications for wider user accessibility, offering quick, secure file transfers without traditional EDI connections.

Pros:

  • The cloud-based, user-friendly web interface is highlighted, along with cost-effective and smooth onboarding.25
  • Users commend the great interface, ease of use, and effective Outlook integration.26
  • Outstanding customer service is noted, with readily available assistance and solutions to maximize application benefits.27

Cons:

  • Users mention the expense and difficulties in locating files within the system.28
  • Users face issues with document accessibility by the uploader and tracking shared documents.29
  • Users find it extremely difficult to pay for subscriptions, requiring specific customer service interactions.30

Files.com

Files.com offers a secure, cloud-based file transfer system, making it an ideal choice for both large and small-scale transactions. This versatile platform prioritizes sensitive data transfer and electronic business documents, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of your data. With its encrypted storage and customizable sharing options, Files.com provides a scalable solution that caters to diverse project needs.

Pros:

  • Users are highly pleased with the dedicated developer team focused on cloud storage and file management. 31
  • Users appreciate the ability to sync with Google Drive, facilitating easy sharing over the web and supporting efficient remote work. 32

Cons:

  • Users perceive the platform’s speed as a result of a less cluttered UI, suggesting a limited range of features.33
  • Users find the frequent notifications, particularly during file deletions and renaming, to be overly persistent and annoying. 34

What are the important features of AS2 Software Solutions?

  • Data Encryption: AS2 uses standard encryption methods to ensure that data is securely transmitted over the Internet, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access.
  • Digital Signatures: It employs digital signatures to authenticate the sender of the data, ensuring the integrity and non-repudiation of the transmitted data.
  • Message Disposition Notification (MDN): AS2 supports MDNs, which are electronic acknowledgments sent back by the recipient to confirm the receipt and integrity of the transmitted message. This provides a verifiable, non-repudiable confirmation that the message was received and decrypted successfully.
  • Secure and Reliable Transport: AS2 operates over HTTPS, adding an additional layer of security through SSL/TLS. This ensures that data in transit is encrypted and secure from endpoint to endpoint.
  • Interoperability: AS2 allows for interoperability between different systems and software, facilitating seamless data exchange between businesses regardless of their underlying technologies.
  • Asynchronous and Synchronous Communication: AS2 supports both asynchronous communication, where the response (MDN) is not immediately required and can be sent later, and synchronous communication, where the MDN is sent immediately after the message is received and processed.
  • Payload Agnosticism: AS2 is not limited to any specific data format, making it versatile for transmitting various types of documents, such as EDI, XML, JSON, binary files, etc.

Source: Advanced Systems Concepts35

FAQ

How Do As2 software work?

AS2 software tools are instrumental in revolutionizing B2B communications, providing a high-quality, secure, and reliable method for exchanging sensitive information over the internet. These tools are built on the robust foundation of HTTP/HTTPS protocols, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality data transmission process.

What are the benefits of using AS2 software?

AS2 software solutions provide businesses with valuable benefits, such as sensitive data, file server integration, and enhanced file integrity. They facilitate efficient EDI transmissions while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. AS2 prioritizes security, safeguarding sensitive files, and offers essential support for business operations.

 What types of files can be exchanged through AS2?

AS2 was initially designed for the exchange of structured business documents, particularly Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) files. However, the AS2 specification does not limit itself to any specific file content. Businesses across various industries and sizes utilize AS2 for exchanging a wide range of file types, including XML, JSON, CSV, flat files, text files, and images, in addition to traditional EDI files.

What is AS2 protocol for managed file transfers?

The AS2 protocol is a secure file transfer protocol that leverages S/MIME capabilities for digital encryption, signatures, and non-repudiation. Unlike traditional FTP, SFTP, or FTPS, it operates over HTTP and HTTPS. AS2 is commonly used for exchanging files such as EDI files (e.g., X12 or EDIFACT) and various other formats including XML, JSON, CSV, flat files, text files, images, and binary files. It ensures file security through encryption and verifies authenticity via digital signatures. Additionally, signed receipts issued by the recipient provide legally valid evidence of non-repudiation.

Are there limitations to AS2 tools?

Yes, there are limitations to AS2 software. While they excel in secure file transfer using popular file transfer protocols and digital signatures for EDI documents, they require both parties to have compatible systems, which can be a barrier in data exchanges.

Further Reading

If you have further questions, reach us:

Access Cem's 2 decades of B2B tech experience as a tech consultant, enterprise leader, startup entrepreneur & industry analyst. Leverage insights informing top Fortune 500 every month.
Cem Dilmegani
Principal Analyst
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Cem Dilmegani
Principal Analyst

Cem has been the principal analyst at AIMultiple since 2017. AIMultiple informs hundreds of thousands of businesses (as per similarWeb) including 60% of Fortune 500 every month.

Cem's work has been cited by leading global publications including Business Insider, Forbes, Washington Post, global firms like Deloitte, HPE, NGOs like World Economic Forum and supranational organizations like European Commission. You can see more reputable companies and media that referenced AIMultiple.

Throughout his career, Cem served as a tech consultant, tech buyer and tech entrepreneur. He advised businesses on their enterprise software, automation, cloud, AI / ML and other technology related decisions at McKinsey & Company and Altman Solon for more than a decade. He also published a McKinsey report on digitalization.

He led technology strategy and procurement of a telco while reporting to the CEO. He has also led commercial growth of deep tech company Hypatos that reached a 7 digit annual recurring revenue and a 9 digit valuation from 0 within 2 years. Cem's work in Hypatos was covered by leading technology publications like TechCrunch and Business Insider.

Cem regularly speaks at international technology conferences. He graduated from Bogazici University as a computer engineer and holds an MBA from Columbia Business School.

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