7 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Managed File Transfer (MFT) Solution

Every organization moves data; some data is highly sensitive; other data is impressive due to its extreme volume. But not every organization moves these files efficiently, securely, or in compliance with modern regulations. Managed File Transfer (MFT) solutions help bridge that gap by automating, securing, and centralizing file movement.

But if you’ve been looped into the evaluation and buying process, how do you wade through the many available options and how do you know which solution will truly fit your business?

Before you invest in timesaving, compliance-ready, and secure file transfer, ask these seven questions—and look for the answers that align with the capabilities and features your organization prioritizes.

MFT Evaluation Questions

1. How does the solution ensure data security—both in motion and at rest?

   Security is the foundation of any MFT platform. Look for solutions with automatic and robust encryption standards, granular access control, and centralized key management. Determine if a solution:

   • Protects data using FIPS 140-2.  EFT Release v8.3.2 will support FIPS 140-3. In SSL FIPS mode, encryption at rest uses the FIPS-certified SSL library.
   • Offers role-based access controls (RBAC) ensure only authorized users access sensitive data
   • Integrates DLP and antivirus scanning to add an extra layer of protection

2. Does the software simplify compliance and auditing?

   From HIPAA to PCI DSS to GDPR, compliance requirements are only getting more complex. The right MFT solution should make it easier to document and prove compliance by providing:

   • Detailed audit trails and centralized logging simplify compliance reporting.
   • Built-in templates for regulations like HIPAA, SOX, and GDPR ensure best practices are followed
   • Automated workflows to help reduce human error, a common compliance weak spot

3. How easily can it integrate with existing systems and workflows?

   An MFT solution shouldn’t create another silo. It should integrate seamlessly with your existing applications and processes. Here’s how one solution, Globalscape EFT, works with existing systems:

   • Integration connectors support Active Directory, LDAP, SFTP, FTPS, HTTP/S, and cloud services
   • EFT works with PowerShell scripts, APIs, and event triggers for custom automation
   • Supports Fortra’s Threat Protection Suite for unified data security

4. Can it scale as my organization grows?

   Whether you’re adding new partners, expanding globally, or moving workloads to the cloud, scalability ensures your MFT solution can keep up. Be sure your solution offers:

   • High availability (HA), load balancing, and clustering for continuous uptime
   • Flexible deployment options—on-premises, cloud, or hybrid—to grow with your strategy
   • Licensing models capable of supporting small teams to large, distributed enterprises

5. How much automation does it offer?

   Automation eliminates manual steps, reduces errors, and keeps transfers running on schedule—even after hours. Check for:  

   • An Event Rules Engine to automate transfers based on triggers or conditions
   • Ability to schedule recurring transfers, manage exceptions, and handle retries automatically
   • Integration with an Advanced Workflow Engine to allow visual, drag-and-drop workflow design

6. Does it offer real-time visibility and control?

   Monitoring transfers manually is inefficient—and risky. You should have instant insight into file movement and your system's health. Features should include:

   1. An Administration Console and web-based dashboard that provides real-time status information and alerts
   2. Centralized logging and reporting tools to help IT teams track issues and prove SLA adherence
   3. Configurable notifications to keep teams informed on file delivery status

7. What deployment options are available?

   Every organization’s infrastructure is unique. Your MFT platform should be able to adapt to it, not the other way around. Determine if MFT candidates can:

   • Deploy on-premises for total control, in the cloud for flexibility, or as a hybrid for the best of both
   • Offer an MFTaaS (Managed File Transfer as a Service) option for reduced maintenance and faster implementation
   • Easily migrate paths between deployment types as needs evolve.

Choosing the Right MFT Fit

The best MFT solution isn’t just about moving files from one location to another. It’s about managing, securing, and automating data movement in a way that scales with and meshes your business.

Globalscape EFT has earned its reputation for combining enterprise-level security with flexibility and ease of use—making it the smart choice for organizations that can’t afford critical downtime, data loss, or compliance gaps.