What is SFTP?

SFTP is a way computers share files with one another. When you hear that Pinpoint will send reports to your HRIS via SFTP, you might wonder what that means. Let's break it down in simple terms.

What is SFTP?

SFTP stands for Secure File Transfer Protocol. Despite the technical name, it's actually a straightforward concept:

SFTP is a secure way for computers to send files to each other.

Files can be sent to a shared folder that the two computers have access to. This can be done ad hoc, but is usally done on a schedule (typically daily or weekly).

The Google Drive Analogy

Imagine you use Google Drive to store and share documents. When you need to share a file with a colleague, you might:

1. Upload the file to a shared folder
2. Your colleague accesses that folder
3. They download the file to their computer

SFTP works in a similar way, but for computer systems talking to each other. One computer will create a shared folder, and bothe use the shared folder to send files:

1. One system (like Pinpoint) places files in a special secure folder
2. The other system (your HRIS) checks that folder
3. It retrieves the files it needs (like HR reports)

The main difference is that instead of manually uploading and downloading files, the computer systems do this automatically and securely behind the scenes.

Why This Matters

This automatic file-sharing between systems means:

• No Manual Work: Teams don't need to export data from one system and import it into another
• Up-to-Date Information: Systems regularly receive the latest information from each other
• Security: SFTP ensures sensitive data is transferred securely
• Reliability: The process creates a dependable bridge between different software platforms

The Bottom Line

When someone mentions "SFTP," they mean using a secure technology that allows different systems/computers to automatically share files with each other. It's like having a private Google Drive folder, that your computer systems use to communicate with each other, ensuring that important information flows seamlessly between applications without manual intervention.