Network Support

OFTP2 works with X.25, X.25 over ISDN and TCP/IP based networks, as well as over a VPN. All of the security features and compression are fully supported on all networks.

VANs

OFTP2 can be used to exchange message directly between trading partners or indirectly via a number of intermediaries, typically VANs. It makes no difference. There is special support within OFT2P for indirect communications so that a trading partner knows when a message has reached its ultimate destination provideing end to end visibility.

Permanent Internet Connections

OFT2P is a full duplex protocol which means that it is possible for files to be exchanged in both directions regardless of which party made the connection. So A can connect to B and send files to B and also receive files from B. The result of this is that smaller suppliers can use a low cost connection to exchange files with a trading partner. The cost savings are obvious, with dialup connections costing virtually zero in today’s environment. A dialup connection is not permanently connected to the Internet and so the threat from hackers limited to the time taken for a communications session, hence firewalls and expertise are not necessary not required.