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.