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About Connections

About Connections

A connection defines a storage location where FeedXChange can download input files and upload response files. Connections are the bridge between your data sources and FeedXChange's processing capabilities.

Connection Fundamentals

  • Each connection is partner-specific and can't be shared across partners
  • Connections store authentication credentials and access details
  • FeedXChange tests connections to verify accessibility before use

Supported Connection Types

FeedXChange supports two primary connection types:

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol)

SFTP is a protocol for secure file transfer over networks. It:

  • operates on SSH (Secure Shell) for encrypted communication
  • uses traditional file system hierarchical directory structure
  • uses common authentication methods: username/password or SSH keys
  • is ideal for organizations with existing SFTP infrastructure

S3 (Amazon Simple Storage Service)

S3 is a cloud-based object storage service from AWS. It:

  • stores data as objects within "buckets" rather than traditional folders
  • uses access keys and secret keys for authentication
  • offers high scalability and durability
  • is perfect for cloud-first organizations

Encryption

If you enable the encryption field, you can configure the algorithm and the passphrase. This enables FeedXChange to decrypt the file downloaded using this connection. Refer to Connection Details:Encryption

The Encryption portion of the screen showing the option is enabled, and the selected algorithm is AES-256, which takes a passphrase.
Figure 1. Encryption using the AES-256 algorithm and a passphrase

Encryption using an encryption key and passphrase (GPG supports both methods). The passphrase is also used to decrypt the key file.

The Encryption portion of the screen showing the option is enabled, and the selected algorithm is GPG, which supports an encryption key file and a passphrase.
Figure 2. Encryption using the GPG algorithm, a key file, and a passphrase

Compression

If you enable the compression field, you can select the algorithm and the compression level. This enables FeedXChange to decompress the file downloaded using this connection. Refer to Connection Details: Compression

The Compression portion of the screen showing the option is enabled, the Compression Algorithm is set to GZIP, and the Compression Level is set to 3. Figure 3. Configuring compression parameters

Connection Integration Patterns

While SFTP and S3 are distinct technologies, they can work together.

  • AWS Transfer Family enables SFTP protocol access to S3 buckets
  • Organizations can maintain familiar SFTP workflows while leveraging cloud storage
  • This hybrid approach combines SFTP's simplicity with S3's scalability

Connection Lifecycle

  1. Create - Set up connection details and credentials
  2. Test - Verify connectivity and authentication
  3. Use - Reference in integrations for file processing
  4. Maintain - Update credentials and settings as needed

Best Practices

  • Test connections often to ensure continued accessibility
  • Use descriptive connection names that identify their purpose
  • Keep credentials current and secure
  • Consider using separate connections for different environments (dev, test, prod)

Connection Dependencies

Before creating connections, ensure you have:

  • A configured partner
  • Server access credentials (SFTP) or AWS access keys (S3)
  • Knowledge of required file paths and directory structures

See also: