What is OFTP?
OFTP stands for Odette File Transfer Protocol and is used for EDI communication in the European automotive industry. Odette was an EDI standard created for this industry and OFTP is the corresponding connection protocol that was created to support this functionality. There are two kinds: OFTP/ISDN is the original version and still in use today, and OFTP2 which relies on the internet for transport.
It works similar to regular FTP with file transfer delivery/retrieval, but with added layers of security and message encryption. OFTP depends on each party’s SSID and SFID to be exchanged that will be used during communication to facilitate encryption and compression. The SSID (Start Session ID) tells the server who the connecting party is and allows the server to grant them access. After that, the SFIF (Start File ID) that contains information useful to the file they are about to send including encryption and compression.
Babelway and OFTP
Babelway has supported OFTP connections for years because of our robust involvement in the automotive industry. ODETTE standards have become commonplace in this industry and thus all companies wishing to participate in EDI exchanges with trading partners must support both message standards. Babelway supports both OFTP/ISDN and OFTP2
Here is how the setup looks in Babelway
When enabling an OFTP, Babelway provides you with your SSID and SFID to exchange with your partners. From there, you just input their credentials from their OFTP connection. Once enabled, all the communication will be handled by Babelway.
Who uses OFTP?
Easy setup and monitoring
Deploy your connection in seconds, making it ready for testing immediately
- Define a few simple parameters and create your connection
- Access more advanced settings to adjust your connection requirements
- Define specific polling times to ensure prompt delivery or receipt of your files
- Monitor all file connections from one unified monitoring section
Transform any format
Use simple drag & drop tools to map your message to any other format for easy import/export in/from your database
- 12+ formats to choose from: CSV, multi-record text file, IDOC, Excel, XML, UBL, etc.
- Hundreds of transformation functions available or build your custom functions
- Use lookup tables to replace data sets
- Change your file structure without losing your transformation maps
Connect to anyone
Connect your Babelway environment using any EDI or non-EDI communication protocols
- 12+ communication protocols supported including X400, VAN, sFTP, SMTP, etc. regardless of how they were received
- Define retry strategies for maximum robustness
- Get notified and intervene immediately in case of processing or delivery issues
And last but not least:
Get extended support from the experts
Babelway is not only a great self-service platform but also a team of pros ready to help you succeed.
- Access our support helpdesk anytime and ask your questions. You will be answered as soon as max 60 minutes
- Spot the ‘reuse and save time’ zone on the right of the screen? Import messages and maps from our catalog
- Access online training material through Babelway Academy
“I have to say how helpful Babelway support is. It was amazing how quickly I was getting answers to my questions. Sometimes even at all hours of day and night.”
IT Department, Vandeputte