EDI via VPN: A Secure Method for Data Exchange

File Transfer Protocol over Virtual Private Network (FTP over VPN), Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), and File Transfer Protocol Secure (FTPS) are widely used protocols for securely exchanging EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) documents over the Internet. These protocols support both Direct EDI (connecting directly with business partners) and connections via an EDI Network Services Provider—often referred to as a Value-Added Network (VAN).

FTP over VPN

FTP (File Transfer Protocol), though reliable and still commonly used within organizations, lacks inherent security for exchanging documents over the Internet. To mitigate this, it’s often paired with a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to provide an encrypted connection.

However, FTP over VPN does not provide:

• Non-repudiation (proof that a document was sent by the stated sender)
• Message management (delivery confirmation, error handling)
• Interoperability, due to variations in VPN technologies and configurations

Organizations often use FTP over VPN to connect to a VAN, which then offers the additional functionality—non-repudiation, message management, and interoperability—required for reliable B2B communications.

SFTP and FTPS

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) and FTPS (File Transfer Protocol Secure) are secure protocols that encrypt data during transfer and decrypt it at the destination.

• SFTP uses a security layer developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)
• FTPS secures data using SSL/TLS protocols

While both ensure encrypted transmission, they do not inherently provide:

• Non-repudiation
• Message tracking or delivery confirmation
• Consistent interoperability (due to differing implementations)

To address these gaps, businesses often connect through a VAN, which acts as an intermediary to ensure secure, reliable, and fully managed EDI communication.

Managing EDI VAN Complexity

Many organizations find themselves juggling multiple EDI VANs across different regions, business units, or acquired companies. This leads to increased costs, redundancy, and management challenges. Consolidating EDI VANs can streamline operations, improve visibility, and reduce overhead. Learn how OpenText helps organizations simplify and optimize their EDI environments with EDI VAN Consolidation.

Learn more about implementing a Value-Added Network

OpenText’s industry-leading Value-Added Network enables secure, scalable, and compliant EDI communication with trading partners around the globe. To learn more about how OpenText can support your EDI strategy, visit our website.

Connect once, reach anything with a Value-Added Network (VAN) →