Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cleo Harmony - Provides robust AS2 file transfer with advanced automation, security, and B2B integration capabilities for enterprises.
- 2#2: IBM Sterling B2B Integrator - Enterprise platform offering comprehensive AS2 protocol support for secure EDI and file exchange in complex B2B ecosystems.
- 3#3: Axway SecureTransport - Secure managed file transfer solution with full AS2 compliance, encryption, and high-availability for global trading partners.
- 4#4: GoAnywhere MFT - User-friendly MFT server that enables secure AS2 transfers, workflows, and integrations with strong compliance features.
- 5#5: OpenText EFT MFT - High-performance file transfer platform supporting AS2 for accelerated, secure B2B communications and automation.
- 6#6: JSCAPE MFT Server - Cross-platform MFT solution with native AS2 support, clustering, and event-driven automation for reliable transfers.
- 7#7: Fortra's Diplomat MFT - Managed file transfer gateway featuring AS2 protocol for secure, compliant data exchange with trading partners.
- 8#8: Thru - Cloud-based integration platform with AS2 capabilities for seamless file sharing and B2B connectivity.
- 9#9: Cosys MFT Suite - Modular MFT solution providing AS2 transfers, digital signing, and monitoring for secure B2B operations.
- 10#10: OpenAS2 - Open-source AS2 server and client for implementing secure, standards-compliant file transfers without licensing costs.
Tools were selected based on key factors including core performance (security, compliance, automation), user experience (ease of deployment, integration), and value (scalability, cost-effectiveness), ensuring they align with the needs of businesses large and small.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key As2-enabled software tools, including Cleo Harmony, IBM Sterling B2B Integrator, Axway SecureTransport, GoAnywhere MFT, and OpenText EFT MFT, highlighting features like integration capabilities, security protocols, and usability. Readers will gain insights to identify the right solution, whether prioritizing advanced security, seamless cross-system connectivity, or straightforward deployment.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleo Harmony Provides robust AS2 file transfer with advanced automation, security, and B2B integration capabilities for enterprises. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | IBM Sterling B2B Integrator Enterprise platform offering comprehensive AS2 protocol support for secure EDI and file exchange in complex B2B ecosystems. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | Axway SecureTransport Secure managed file transfer solution with full AS2 compliance, encryption, and high-availability for global trading partners. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | GoAnywhere MFT User-friendly MFT server that enables secure AS2 transfers, workflows, and integrations with strong compliance features. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | OpenText EFT MFT High-performance file transfer platform supporting AS2 for accelerated, secure B2B communications and automation. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | JSCAPE MFT Server Cross-platform MFT solution with native AS2 support, clustering, and event-driven automation for reliable transfers. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Fortra's Diplomat MFT Managed file transfer gateway featuring AS2 protocol for secure, compliant data exchange with trading partners. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Thru Cloud-based integration platform with AS2 capabilities for seamless file sharing and B2B connectivity. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Cosys MFT Suite Modular MFT solution providing AS2 transfers, digital signing, and monitoring for secure B2B operations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | OpenAS2 Open-source AS2 server and client for implementing secure, standards-compliant file transfers without licensing costs. | other | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 5.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
Provides robust AS2 file transfer with advanced automation, security, and B2B integration capabilities for enterprises.
Enterprise platform offering comprehensive AS2 protocol support for secure EDI and file exchange in complex B2B ecosystems.
Secure managed file transfer solution with full AS2 compliance, encryption, and high-availability for global trading partners.
User-friendly MFT server that enables secure AS2 transfers, workflows, and integrations with strong compliance features.
High-performance file transfer platform supporting AS2 for accelerated, secure B2B communications and automation.
Cross-platform MFT solution with native AS2 support, clustering, and event-driven automation for reliable transfers.
Managed file transfer gateway featuring AS2 protocol for secure, compliant data exchange with trading partners.
Cloud-based integration platform with AS2 capabilities for seamless file sharing and B2B connectivity.
Modular MFT solution providing AS2 transfers, digital signing, and monitoring for secure B2B operations.
Open-source AS2 server and client for implementing secure, standards-compliant file transfers without licensing costs.
Cleo Harmony
enterpriseProvides robust AS2 file transfer with advanced automation, security, and B2B integration capabilities for enterprises.
Patented AS2 acceleration and zero-loss guaranteed delivery with real-time dashboards for unparalleled reliability and visibility
Cleo Harmony is a leading cloud-based integration platform (iPaaS) designed for secure B2B communications, excelling in AS2 protocol support for reliable EDI and file transfers over the internet. It automates trading partner onboarding, handles high-volume transactions with enterprise scalability, and integrates seamlessly with ERP systems and APIs. With robust security features like encryption, digital signatures, and compliance with standards such as AS2 1.2, it ensures zero-loss delivery and real-time visibility into data flows.
Pros
- Superior AS2 performance with acceleration technology for high-speed, reliable transfers
- Comprehensive EDI translation and multi-protocol support (AS2, AS4, SFTP, APIs)
- Advanced monitoring, analytics, and automated workflows for full visibility
Cons
- Premium pricing may deter small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
- Relies on cloud subscription model without robust on-premise option
Best For
Enterprises and mid-sized businesses handling high-volume EDI/AS2 exchanges with multiple trading partners requiring mission-critical reliability.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on volume and features; typically starts at $5,000+/month for enterprise plans with annual contracts.
IBM Sterling B2B Integrator
enterpriseEnterprise platform offering comprehensive AS2 protocol support for secure EDI and file exchange in complex B2B ecosystems.
Advanced AS2 adapter with built-in support for AS2 extensions like stateful sessions and large file handling via chunking
IBM Sterling B2B Integrator is an enterprise-grade B2B integration platform designed for secure, scalable electronic document exchange using protocols like AS2. It provides comprehensive EDI translation, mapping, orchestration, and monitoring capabilities to automate trading partner interactions. The solution excels in handling high-volume transactions with robust security features including digital signing, encryption, and non-repudiation via Message Disposition Notifications (MDNs).
Pros
- Highly scalable architecture supports millions of transactions daily with clustering and failover
- Full AS2 compliance (RFC 4130) including signing, compression, chunking, and asynchronous MDNs
- Extensive adapter ecosystem and graphical process modeling for complex workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requires specialized training for configuration and administration
- High licensing and implementation costs make it less accessible for SMBs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, high-volume B2B ecosystems needing mission-critical reliability and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription licensing; typically $100K+ annually based on transaction volume, with custom quotes required.
Axway SecureTransport
enterpriseSecure managed file transfer solution with full AS2 compliance, encryption, and high-availability for global trading partners.
Secure Relay for multi-protocol bridging and partner onboarding without exposing backend systems
Axway SecureTransport is an enterprise-grade managed file transfer (MFT) platform specializing in secure B2B communications, with full support for the AS2 protocol for reliable, encrypted EDI exchanges over the internet. It handles high-volume file transfers with features like digital signing, compression, asynchronous MDNs, and virus scanning to ensure compliance and non-repudiation. The solution scales for global operations, offering centralized management, real-time visibility, and integration with ERP systems.
Pros
- Comprehensive AS2 support including advanced options like AS2+ and multi-hop routing
- Enterprise scalability with clustering, high availability, and robust auditing
- Strong security features such as FIPS 140-2 compliance and end-to-end encryption
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for non-experts
- High licensing costs unsuitable for SMBs
- Limited out-of-the-box customization without professional services
Best For
Large enterprises with complex B2B EDI needs requiring reliable AS2 transfers and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting at $50,000+ annually, based on volume, users, and support; quote required.
GoAnywhere MFT
enterpriseUser-friendly MFT server that enables secure AS2 transfers, workflows, and integrations with strong compliance features.
Visual drag-and-drop workflow designer for building sophisticated AS2 automation without coding
GoAnywhere MFT is a comprehensive managed file transfer (MFT) solution that provides robust AS2 protocol support for secure B2B and EDI file exchanges over the internet. It enables both AS2 client and server functionalities, including encryption, digital signing, compression, and non-repudiation via MDNs. The platform offers automation workflows, centralized management, and integration with enterprise systems for efficient, compliant file transfers.
Pros
- Full-featured AS2 support with encryption, signing, MDNs, and asynchronous capabilities
- Powerful automation via visual workflow designer for complex transfer scenarios
- Strong security, auditing, and compliance tools for regulated industries
Cons
- High cost for smaller organizations or basic AS2 needs
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations and custom workflows
- Resource-intensive installation on-premises
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing enterprise-grade AS2 within a full MFT platform for automated B2B transfers.
Pricing
Quote-based; perpetual licenses start around $5,000-$10,000 per server plus annual maintenance, or subscription from $3,000+/year.
OpenText EFT MFT
enterpriseHigh-performance file transfer platform supporting AS2 for accelerated, secure B2B communications and automation.
DMZ Gateway for secure AS2 exposure without compromising internal servers
OpenText EFT MFT is an enterprise-grade managed file transfer solution that provides robust AS2 support for secure B2B file exchanges, including encryption, digital signing, and MDN receipts for non-repudiation. It handles high-volume EDI transactions reliably over the internet while integrating with other protocols like SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS. The platform offers advanced automation, auditing, and compliance tools tailored for regulated industries.
Pros
- Comprehensive AS2 compliance with full support for security options and asynchronous MDNs
- High scalability and clustering for enterprise-level throughput
- Strong auditing, event rules, and compliance reporting (e.g., HIPAA, PCI)
Cons
- Complex setup and configuration requiring IT expertise
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for larger organizations
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises in regulated sectors like healthcare, finance, or manufacturing needing reliable AS2 for EDI and supply chain integration.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically starting at $15,000+ annually for base AS2 features, scaling with users, volume, and add-ons.
JSCAPE MFT Server
specializedCross-platform MFT solution with native AS2 support, clustering, and event-driven automation for reliable transfers.
Advanced AS2 trading partner management with automated certificate handling and asynchronous MDN support
JSCAPE MFT Server is a cross-platform managed file transfer solution that provides full AS2 compliance for secure B2B file exchanges, including encryption, digital signing, and non-repudiation via MDNs. It supports multiple protocols like SFTP, FTPS, and AS4 alongside AS2, with automation through triggers, actions, and a web-based admin console. Ideal for organizations requiring reliable, standards-based EDI transfers with high availability options like clustering.
Pros
- Comprehensive AS2 support with MDN receipts and certificate management
- Multi-protocol versatility including AS4 and FTP/S variants
- Robust automation and clustering for enterprise scalability
Cons
- Steep initial setup for complex configurations
- Pricing can be high for small-scale deployments
- Limited built-in reporting compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and enterprises handling high-volume AS2-based EDI transfers with multi-protocol needs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $1,495 for Standard edition; Enterprise from $4,995 with subscriptions available.
Fortra's Diplomat MFT
enterpriseManaged file transfer gateway featuring AS2 protocol for secure, compliant data exchange with trading partners.
Advanced AS2 trading partner management with automated certificate lifecycle and dynamic routing rules
Fortra's Diplomat MFT is an enterprise-grade managed file transfer (MFT) solution designed for secure B2B file exchanges, with robust support for the AS2 protocol including encryption, digital signatures, and message disposition notifications (MDNs). It facilitates reliable, compliant transfers over the internet while integrating with a wide range of protocols like SFTP, FTPS, and HTTP/S. The platform offers automation, workflow orchestration, and centralized management to streamline operations for organizations handling high-volume EDI and file transfers.
Pros
- Comprehensive AS2 compliance with non-repudiation and asynchronous MDN support
- Scalable architecture for high-volume enterprise transfers
- Integrated workflow automation and multi-protocol support
Cons
- Complex setup requiring IT expertise
- Custom quote-based pricing can be expensive for smaller users
- Interface feels dated compared to newer cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing rock-solid AS2 for EDI/B2B integrations with extensive protocol flexibility.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing; starts around $10K+ annually depending on volume, users, and features.
Thru
enterpriseCloud-based integration platform with AS2 capabilities for seamless file sharing and B2B connectivity.
Universal protocol translation and advanced routing engine for seamless AS2 interoperability
Thru is a cloud-based managed file transfer (MFT) platform specializing in secure B2B communications, with robust AS2 support for EDI transactions including encryption, digital signatures, and non-repudiation. It enables reliable file exchange with trading partners via AS2 while integrating multiple protocols like SFTP and FTPS in a single interface. The service emphasizes high availability and scalability for enterprise-grade deployments.
Pros
- High uptime (99.999%) and global PoPs for reliable AS2 transfers
- Full AS2 compliance with MDN handling and certificate management
- Workflow automation and API integrations for EDI processing
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can escalate with volume/users
- Setup requires technical expertise for complex partner onboarding
- Less focused on AS2-only users compared to dedicated EDI tools
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises needing scalable AS2 within a multi-protocol MFT platform for B2B EDI.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing; typically starts at $500+/month based on volume, users, and features.
Cosys MFT Suite
specializedModular MFT solution providing AS2 transfers, digital signing, and monitoring for secure B2B operations.
Integrated AS2/AS4 dual-support with ebMS3 messaging for future-proof EDI interoperability
Cosys MFT Suite is a cloud-based managed file transfer (MFT) platform specializing in secure B2B data exchange, with robust AS2 support for EDI transactions including digital signatures, encryption, and non-repudiation. It handles high-volume transfers across multiple protocols like SFTP, FTPS, and AS4, while offering automation workflows, real-time monitoring, and compliance tools for GDPR and other regulations. Designed for enterprises, it ensures reliable, auditable file transfers in complex supply chain environments.
Pros
- Strong AS2 compliance with MDN receipts and certificate management
- Scalable cloud architecture for high-volume EDI processing
- Comprehensive auditing and reporting for regulatory needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Pricing can be high for small to mid-sized teams
- Limited community resources compared to larger vendors
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex AS2-based EDI requirements in manufacturing or retail supply chains.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around €500/month for basic AS2 plans, scaling with data volume and users (custom quotes available).
OpenAS2
otherOpen-source AS2 server and client for implementing secure, standards-compliant file transfers without licensing costs.
Full open-source transparency allowing unlimited customization and integration without vendor restrictions
OpenAS2 is a free, open-source Java-based implementation of the AS2 (Applicability Statement 2) protocol for secure B2B file transfers over HTTP/S. It supports sending and receiving digitally signed and encrypted messages with asynchronous MDN receipts, compression, and partnerships management. Primarily used as a server or client for reliable EDI document exchange without proprietary dependencies.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Robust core AS2 compliance including signing, encryption, and MDNs
- Highly configurable for custom partnerships and workflows
Cons
- No graphical user interface, relying on config files and command-line
- Documentation is sparse and community-driven
- Requires Java knowledge for installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Best For
Technical teams in small to medium businesses seeking a cost-free, self-hosted AS2 solution they can fully customize.
Pricing
Free (open-source under Apache License 2.0)
Conclusion
The top 10 AS2 software tools showcase varied strengths, but Cleo Harmony emerges as the standout, offering robust automation, enterprise security, and seamless B2B integration that cater to complex needs. For those with extensive ecosystems, IBM Sterling B2B Integrator provides a comprehensive platform, while Axway SecureTransport excels in compliance and high availability, each a strong alternative. Ultimately, the best choice depends on specific requirements, with these three leading the field.
To streamline your B2B file transfers, begin with Cleo Harmony to unlock its advanced features—explore the alternatives too if your needs align with complex ecosystems or strict compliance demands.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.