Creating Standard FTP Profiles

Used for the transfer of computer or system files between a client and a server on a computer network, the standard FTP protocol is build on client-server architecture using separate control and data connections between the two. You can receive or transmit files, as needed.

Note: To work with the set up of FTP and SFTP, you need an advanced understanding of how to move files between devices over a network. The setup involves a knowledge of the servers involved, the ports, and access to those areas. The data requirements for set up in Eclipse are typical for this method of transferring files.

To create a standard FTP profile:

  1. From the Tools menu, select Communication Profile Maintenance.

  2. In the Profile/New field, type new.

Note: If you want to edit a current profile, enter the profile name and select Edit.

  1. At the prompt, enter the new name you want to use.

  2. In the Type field, select FTP and click Edit.

  3. Use the following fields to define the FTP credentials you want to use:

Field

Description

Server Address

The server name from which or to which you want to use to transmit files.

Important: Do NOT include the website protocol, such as ftp://, or the port number in this field.

Port

The port number on the server.

The default is 21.

Directory

The directory where transmitted files should be extracted from or deposited to. By default, the system uses the root directory of the FTP connection.

Passive

Select or clear the check box to indicate if you want to use a Passive communication configuration.

  • Select the Passive check box - By selecting the check box, you indicate you want to use a Passive communication configuration. FTP connections originate from the client only and the server can be configured to restrict the range of ports used. This setting is generally preferred since the server can be configured to permit the connections through its firewall.

  • Clear the Passive check box - By clearing the check box, you indicate you want to use what is considered an Active communication configuration. FTP connections occur from both the client and server during FTP. These connections can sometimes be blocked by firewalls which do not allow outbound connections to clients.

File Name*

The standard file name to be used when transmitting files. While optional, this field can be used to define a default file name for when this profile is used.

User

The user name on the server.

Password

The password for the server.

Timeout (seconds)

When configuring the profile to send EDI transmissions, you can specify a data transfer time before the system encounters an error. The Timeout field is available on FTP, SFTP, and FTPS profiles.

The default timeout setting is 120 seconds. You can enter any time in seconds up to a maximum of 3600 seconds.

If you anticipate slow connections or long transmissions, it is recommended to increase the time from the default setting. Increasing the timeout value allows the system to complete the transmission to the partner system. If the transmission does not complete, the system logs an error. You may want to try different times to determine the optimal timing that is typical for the larger transmissions using this profile.

*Optional

  1. Use the Test button to test the connection and ensure the credentials are correct.

  2. Save your changes and exit the window.