FileCatalyst® Direct Overview
FileCatalyst Direct is a software solution that provides accelerated
point-to-point file transfers. The FileCatalyst Direct solution consists
of a Server/Client architecture that is cross platform. Depending on the
end user requirements, various client-side applications can be deployed.
These include HotFolder, WebApplet, Command Line and SDK.
Some key features of the FileCatalyst Direct suite include:
- File transfer speeds up to 100x times faster than regular FTP
- Immunity from network latency and resistance to packet loss
- No additional hardware requirements—a software-only solution
- Automated workflow and transfer scheduling
- Easy administration and maintenance
- Helps satisfy compliancy mandates (HIIPA, SOX, GLBA)
Acceleration Techniques
FileCatalyst Direct uses two features to yield exceptional transfer
speeds even on poor performing networks. These features include:
- FileCatalyst UDP-based protocol: a patent-pending
UDP-based protocol that is faster in transferring large data sets when
there is high latency or packet loss over the network
- Multiple TCP Streaming: In situations where UDP is
not possible, FileCatalyst can achieve some measure of acceleration
by running transfers through multiple concurrent TCP streams, along
with on-the-fly compression.
Bandwidth Optimization
FileCatalyst Direct uses two additional features to optimize bandwidth utilization by limiting the amount of data sent. These features include:
- On-the-fly Compression: FileCatalyst compresses data
in real time, meaning no time-consuming compression or decompression
at the beginning or end of each transfer. File sizes may be reduced
by 50% or more, creating virtual transfer speed that exceeds available
bandwidth.
- Delta Transfers: If a file has changed since its
last transfer, FileCatalyst can send only the “deltas” (incremental
differences) of the file, rather than resending it in its entirety.