Transfer Filters

SFTPPlus MFT includes a flexible file transfer filtering system that controls which files are selected for transfer. This functionality helps automate large-scale or recurring file transfers while avoiding duplicate or unnecessary operations.

Monitoring and File Stability ​

SFTPPlus monitors a defined source directory and detects new or modified files. Transfers are triggered only when a file is considered stable, meaning no other process is still updating its content. This ensures that files are transferred in a consistent and complete state.

Name-Based Filtering ​

The simplest filtering method uses file names. Administrators can configure filters using:

  • Glob expressions (for example, *.csv or report_*.txt)
  • Regular expressions for more advanced matching patterns

Filters can be defined as inclusive (to select only certain files) or exclusive (to skip specific files). This allows precise control over which files are picked up for transfer.

You can find a detailed explanation of the available matching expression on the dedicated documentation page

Age-Based Filtering ​

SFTPPlus also supports filtering based on file age. You can configure transfers to ignore files that are too old or, conversely, only include files created or modified within a recent time window. This helps prevent the transfer of outdated files or temporary working files that should not be moved.

Filtering Based on Past Transfers ​

To prevent duplicate transfers, SFTPPlus can track details about previously transferred files, such as their file names and file sizes.

You can configure a transfer to:

  • Skip files with names that were already transferred in the past.
  • Transfer a file only if it has changed in size or content.
  • Ignore files even if they differ slightly, depending on your operational policy.

These options allow SFTPPlus to identify and avoid unnecessary retransmissions, saving bandwidth and processing time.

Combining Multiple Filters ​

All filtering rules by name, age, and past transfer history can be combined in a single configuration. This allows you to create detailed and efficient transfer workflows that match your exact operational requirements.

For example, you can configure SFTPPlus to transfer only .xml files modified within the last 24 hours that have not been sent before. This combination of filters ensures accuracy and avoids redundant file movement.