Quick Overview
- 1#1: GoAnywhere MFT - Automates secure managed file transfers with advanced workflows, scheduling, and multi-protocol support.
- 2#2: MOVEit Transfer - Provides secure automated file transfer solutions with scheduling, auditing, and compliance reporting.
- 3#3: JSCAPE MFT Server - Enables automated SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS file transfers with clustering and failover capabilities.
- 4#4: Axway SecureTransport - Delivers high-performance automated file transfers with acceleration, routing, and visibility features.
- 5#5: IBM Sterling File Gateway - Automates B2B file exchanges with protocol mediation, encryption, and deep integration options.
- 6#6: SolarWinds Serv-U MFT Server - Supports automated secure file transfers via multiple protocols with web-based management.
- 7#7: Cleo Managed File Transfer - Automates file transfers and EDI processes with self-service portals and API integrations.
- 8#8: Kiteworks - Secures automated file transfers and sharing with zero-trust architecture and compliance tools.
- 9#9: Thru - Cloud platform for automated secure file transfer, synchronization, and collaboration.
- 10#10: Oracle Managed File Transfer - Integrates automated file transfers into Oracle environments with scheduling and monitoring.
We evaluated and ranked these tools based on a balanced assessment of core features (secure protocols, automation capabilities, and integration flexibility), product quality (reliability, performance, and user experience), ease of deployment and management, and long-term value (cost-effectiveness and adaptability to growing business requirements).
Comparison Table
Automated file transfer software simplifies data movement between systems, and selecting the right tool hinges on factors like security, scalability, and integration needs. This comparison table examines top solutions including GoAnywhere MFT, MOVEit Transfer, JSCAPE MFT Server, and more, outlining key features, use cases, and strengths to help readers identify the best fit for their workflow.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GoAnywhere MFT Automates secure managed file transfers with advanced workflows, scheduling, and multi-protocol support. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | MOVEit Transfer Provides secure automated file transfer solutions with scheduling, auditing, and compliance reporting. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | JSCAPE MFT Server Enables automated SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS file transfers with clustering and failover capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | Axway SecureTransport Delivers high-performance automated file transfers with acceleration, routing, and visibility features. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | IBM Sterling File Gateway Automates B2B file exchanges with protocol mediation, encryption, and deep integration options. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | SolarWinds Serv-U MFT Server Supports automated secure file transfers via multiple protocols with web-based management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Cleo Managed File Transfer Automates file transfers and EDI processes with self-service portals and API integrations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Kiteworks Secures automated file transfers and sharing with zero-trust architecture and compliance tools. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Thru Cloud platform for automated secure file transfer, synchronization, and collaboration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Oracle Managed File Transfer Integrates automated file transfers into Oracle environments with scheduling and monitoring. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Automates secure managed file transfers with advanced workflows, scheduling, and multi-protocol support.
Provides secure automated file transfer solutions with scheduling, auditing, and compliance reporting.
Enables automated SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS file transfers with clustering and failover capabilities.
Delivers high-performance automated file transfers with acceleration, routing, and visibility features.
Automates B2B file exchanges with protocol mediation, encryption, and deep integration options.
Supports automated secure file transfers via multiple protocols with web-based management.
Automates file transfers and EDI processes with self-service portals and API integrations.
Secures automated file transfers and sharing with zero-trust architecture and compliance tools.
Cloud platform for automated secure file transfer, synchronization, and collaboration.
Integrates automated file transfers into Oracle environments with scheduling and monitoring.
GoAnywhere MFT
enterpriseAutomates secure managed file transfers with advanced workflows, scheduling, and multi-protocol support.
Visual no-code Project Designer for creating reusable, drag-and-drop automation workflows without scripting
GoAnywhere MFT is a robust managed file transfer (MFT) solution designed for secure, automated, and reliable file exchanges across organizations, partners, and customers. It supports extensive protocols like SFTP, FTPS, AS2, OFTP, and HTTPS, with powerful no-code automation via a visual workflow designer for building reusable projects. Deployable on-premises, in the cloud, or as a managed service, it emphasizes enterprise-grade security, auditing, and compliance with standards such as HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI DSS.
Pros
- Exceptional protocol support and automation capabilities for complex workflows
- Strong security features including encryption, failover clustering, and detailed auditing
- Flexible deployment options and seamless integrations with ERP, CRM, and cloud services
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations and workflows
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
- Resource-intensive setup for on-premises installations
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring secure, scalable, and highly automated file transfer solutions with strict compliance needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting around $5,000-$10,000 annually based on users, volume, and deployment; free trial available.
MOVEit Transfer
enterpriseProvides secure automated file transfer solutions with scheduling, auditing, and compliance reporting.
Advanced Workflow designer for no-code creation of sophisticated multi-step automation rules
MOVEit Transfer is a robust managed file transfer (MFT) solution from Progress Software, designed for secure, automated, and compliant file exchanges between organizations and partners. It excels in automating workflows, scheduling transfers, and supporting protocols like SFTP, FTPS, HTTPS, and AS2 for reliable high-volume operations. The platform includes advanced auditing, encryption, and compliance tools for standards like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS, making it ideal for enterprise-grade deployments.
Pros
- Enterprise-grade security with end-to-end encryption and comprehensive auditing
- Powerful Workflow engine for complex automation and scheduling
- Scalable multi-protocol support and integration capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and advanced configuration
- Premium pricing that may overwhelm small businesses
- Past security vulnerabilities requiring vigilant patching
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring secure, compliant, and highly automated file transfer solutions.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing for on-premises or SaaS (MOVEit Cloud); typically starts at $5,000+ annually depending on users/servers.
JSCAPE MFT Server
enterpriseEnables automated SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS file transfers with clustering and failover capabilities.
Trigger-based automation engine enabling complex, no-code workflows for file processing, routing, and transformation
JSCAPE MFT Server is a secure managed file transfer (MFT) solution designed for automated, reliable file exchanges across multiple protocols including SFTP, FTPS, SCP, HTTP/S, AS2, and OFTP2. It excels in enterprise environments with features like trigger-based automation, task chaining, scheduling, and clustering for high availability. The platform supports compliance standards such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX, making it suitable for regulated industries requiring auditable transfers.
Pros
- Extensive multi-protocol support for seamless integration with diverse systems
- Powerful automation engine with triggers, schedules, and workflow chaining
- High availability clustering and robust compliance auditing features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for configuring advanced automation and clustering
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses or low-volume users
- Administrative interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing reliable, compliant automated file transfers with advanced protocol support and high uptime.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$2,995 per server for standard edition; enterprise tiers higher, plus ~20% annual maintenance.
Axway SecureTransport
enterpriseDelivers high-performance automated file transfers with acceleration, routing, and visibility features.
Advanced protocol mediation and dynamic routing for bridging legacy and modern transfer protocols effortlessly
Axway SecureTransport is an enterprise-grade managed file transfer (MFT) solution that enables secure, automated, and reliable file exchanges across multiple protocols including SFTP, FTPS, AS2, and HTTPS. It provides centralized visibility, workflow automation, and compliance reporting to manage high-volume transfers efficiently. Designed for complex environments, it supports protocol mediation, high availability clustering, and integration with enterprise systems like ERP and cloud services.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-protocol support for seamless integration with diverse partners
- Robust security and compliance features including encryption, auditing, and standards like HIPAA/PCI
- Scalable automation with workflow engine and real-time monitoring for enterprise-scale operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring skilled administrators
- High cost suitable mainly for large enterprises
- Limited out-of-the-box simplicity compared to lighter-weight alternatives
Best For
Large enterprises needing secure, compliant, and high-volume automated file transfers across hybrid environments.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on throughput, users, and features; typically starts at $20,000+ annually with subscription model.
IBM Sterling File Gateway
enterpriseAutomates B2B file exchanges with protocol mediation, encryption, and deep integration options.
Integrated partner community management with automated onboarding and self-service portals
IBM Sterling File Gateway is an enterprise-grade B2B file transfer solution that enables secure, automated, and reliable exchange of files with trading partners using multiple protocols like AS2, SFTP, FTPS, and emerging standards such as AS4. It offers comprehensive visibility through dashboards, real-time tracking, and audit trails, along with built-in compliance for regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. The platform excels in managing large-scale partner communities with automated onboarding, error handling, and integration capabilities for complex supply chains.
Pros
- Extensive protocol support including AS2, SFTP, and AS4 for broad interoperability
- Advanced visibility, monitoring, and compliance tools for enterprise-scale operations
- Robust automation for partner onboarding and error recovery
Cons
- Complex setup and configuration requiring specialized expertise
- High licensing costs suitable mainly for large organizations
- Steeper learning curve compared to simpler file transfer tools
Best For
Large enterprises with high-volume, multi-partner B2B file transfers needing strong security and compliance.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing starts at around $50,000+ annually, with custom quotes based on transaction volume, users, and deployment options (on-premises, cloud, or hybrid).
SolarWinds Serv-U MFT Server
enterpriseSupports automated secure file transfers via multiple protocols with web-based management.
Advanced Task Engine for creating complex, event-driven automation workflows without custom coding
SolarWinds Serv-U MFT Server is a robust managed file transfer solution designed for secure, automated file exchanges across multiple protocols including FTP/S, SFTP, and HTTPS. It offers advanced automation through scheduled tasks, event-driven workflows, and scripting support, making it ideal for enterprise environments requiring reliable data transfer without manual intervention. The platform includes web-based client access, clustering for high availability, and integration with enterprise directories like Active Directory.
Pros
- Comprehensive protocol support and strong security features like FIPS 140-2 compliance
- Powerful automation engine with tasks, scripts, and clustering for scalability
- User-friendly web client and centralized management console
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to open-source alternatives
- Steeper learning curve for advanced automation setup
- Limited native mobile app support
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing secure, automated file transfers with high availability and compliance requirements.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $2,500 for basic FTP edition, with MFT Server at $5,000+; subscription options available from $1,200/year.
Cleo Managed File Transfer
enterpriseAutomates file transfers and EDI processes with self-service portals and API integrations.
Cleo Harmony platform for end-to-end visibility and AI-driven automation across all file transfers and integrations
Cleo Managed File Transfer (cleo.com) is an enterprise-grade platform for secure, automated file exchanges across partners, clouds, and internal systems. It supports protocols like SFTP, FTPS, AS2, OFTP, and HTTPS, with robust automation, scheduling, and real-time visibility. Cleo excels in integrating with ERPs such as SAP and Oracle, offering both on-premises (VLTrader) and cloud-based (Harmony) deployments for compliance-heavy industries.
Pros
- Enterprise-grade security and compliance (HIPAA, GDPR, PCI-DSS)
- Deep ERP and API integrations for seamless automation
- Unified visibility dashboard for monitoring transfers in real-time
Cons
- Complex setup requiring IT expertise
- High cost not ideal for SMBs
- Limited self-service options for smaller-scale users
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing compliant, automated file transfers with strong ERP and partner integrations.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; annual subscriptions start at ~$10,000+ depending on volume, users, and deployment.
Kiteworks
enterpriseSecures automated file transfers and sharing with zero-trust architecture and compliance tools.
Visual Workflow Builder for drag-and-drop automation of multi-step file transfers with conditional logic and error handling
Kiteworks is a secure managed file transfer (MFT) and content collaboration platform that enables automated, compliant file transfers for enterprises. It supports protocols like SFTP, FTPS, AS2, and automation via APIs, visual workflows, and connectors to ERP/CRM systems. Designed for regulated industries, it emphasizes encryption, granular access controls, and detailed audit trails to ensure data security during automated transfers.
Pros
- Enterprise-grade security with zero-trust architecture and compliance certifications (HIPAA, GDPR, etc.)
- Robust automation tools including API integrations and workflow orchestration for complex transfers
- Scalable platform with high reliability and detailed reporting/auditing
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Premium pricing that may not suit SMBs or simple automation needs
- Limited out-of-the-box templates compared to dedicated MFT tools
Best For
Large enterprises in regulated sectors like healthcare and finance requiring secure, compliant automated file transfers with strong governance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $5,000+/year for basic deployments, scaling with users and features (quote-based).
Thru
enterpriseCloud platform for automated secure file transfer, synchronization, and collaboration.
Visual Workflow Builder for creating no-code automations tailored to specific file transfer scenarios
Thru is a cloud-based managed file transfer (MFT) platform that enables secure, automated file exchanges for businesses and their trading partners. It supports multiple protocols like SFTP, FTPS, AS2, and OFTP, with features for workflow automation, real-time monitoring, and integration with ERP systems such as SAP and Oracle. Designed for reliability and compliance (e.g., SOC 2, HIPAA), it scales for high-volume transfers without on-premises hardware.
Pros
- Robust protocol support and automation for complex B2B workflows
- High availability with 99.99% uptime and adaptive acceleration for faster transfers
- Strong security features including encryption, auditing, and compliance certifications
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing may be steep for SMBs
- Steeper learning curve for advanced workflow customization
- Fewer out-of-the-box integrations than some top competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises managing high-volume, secure B2B file transfers with complex automation needs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $5,000/month for enterprise plans; free trial available.
Oracle Managed File Transfer
enterpriseIntegrates automated file transfers into Oracle environments with scheduling and monitoring.
Advanced B2B protocol support (AS1/AS2/AS3/AS4) with built-in ebMS3 compliance for secure partner onboarding and messaging
Oracle Managed File Transfer (MFT) is a robust, enterprise-grade cloud service designed for secure and automated file transfers across systems, partners, and applications. It supports a wide range of protocols including SFTP, FTPS, AS2, and HTTP/S, with features for scheduling, monitoring, auditing, and compliance. Integrated within the Oracle Integration Cloud, it excels in B2B scenarios and scales seamlessly for high-volume operations.
Pros
- Enterprise-level security with encryption, digital signatures, and compliance standards like GDPR and HIPAA
- Deep integration with Oracle ecosystem and support for advanced protocols like AS2/AS4
- Comprehensive automation tools including scheduling, triggers, and real-time monitoring
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup for non-Oracle users
- High enterprise pricing with custom licensing
- Limited flexibility for small-scale or non-Oracle environments
Best For
Large enterprises deeply invested in the Oracle stack seeking reliable, scalable B2B file transfer solutions.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription model via Oracle Integration Cloud; typically starts at several thousand dollars per month based on OCPU usage—contact sales for custom quotes.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools excel in delivering seamless automated file transfers, with GoAnywhere MFT emerging as the top choice, boasting advanced workflows and multi-protocol support. MOVEit Transfer and JSCAPE MFT Server follow closely, offering strong alternatives—MOVEit with compliance and auditing, JSCAPE with clustering and failover capabilities—ensuring there's a solution for diverse needs. Evaluating priorities will guide the best fit, but all deliver reliable, secure automation.
Take the first step toward streamlined file transfers: explore GoAnywhere MFT to leverage its intuitive workflows and robust security, and see why it ranks as the top option for automated file transfer needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison