Fortra's GoAnywhere MFT for Windows (BYOL)

We had legacy integration tools like TIBCO. We needed a quick, cloud-based integration solution that could easily handle file transfers, manage heavy workloads, and provide a user-friendly interface. Additionally, if any file transformations are required, those should be simple to execute. GoAnywhere MFT meets all these needs, which is why we decided to use it.

We previously used a legacy integration tool, which had limitations on the systems it could connect to. For instance, I need to upload files to SharePoint, and GoAnywhere MFT has a default SharePoint Online connector, which makes my life easier. It includes various built-in connectors like Blob Storage, SFTP, SMB, and a Cloud Connector, along with a separate Data Lake Connector. You simply select the connector you need, fill out the necessary details, and you're ready to go. This has allowed me to focus more on file transformation rather than just connectivity with different systems. Additionally, I’ve observed that GoAnywhere MFT effectively manages heavy loads and large file sizes, which improves efficiency and meets client expectations for the file transfer tool. It enhances visibility and provides improvements in many areas, from the in-built connectors to managing the load of larger files. Overall, I can confidently say that it is a significant improvement over legacy tools.

We aim to achieve automation wherever possible. For example, we have a large number of applications. During an outage, we need to shut them down, which was previously done manually. Now, using a Secure Form, we can create a script that includes the necessary commands, and we can simply execute it. This process saves us time and reduces manual effort. Secure Form allows us to build automated scripts that manage this process, eliminating the need for manual intervention and saving both time and effort. 

The best aspect is how user-friendly it is. When you log into the platform, everything is right in front of you. If you want to see transfers or schedules, it's easily accessible. You can also view logs and performance characteristics, as well as details about expiring certificates and keys and what actions you need to take. Everything is straightforward and user-friendly.

One of the unique characteristics of GoAnywhere MFT is that it can manage various platforms, which is a significant advantage. This is where its reliability shines, as it is compatible with most systems. For example, it works well with SharePoint, SFTP, and REST API calls. Overall, it's very user-friendly and reliable across different platforms in our managed environment.

We extensively use connectors, especially with SharePoint. From my perspective, the connectors in GoAnywhere MFT are quite reliable. One of the most important aspects is their security. The organization I work for places a strong emphasis on data security, as our data is sensitive. These connectors play a crucial role in maintaining secure connections because access isn’t granted without passing a token. After that, you can exchange data smoothly. In addition to SharePoint, we also utilize data lake connectors and Azure Blob connectors. The choice of connector often depends on the type of end system or the system on the other side. Overall, these connectors are dependable and help establish a secure trust between systems while also being user-friendly.

I recently came across an area that needs improvement. For instance, there's a lack of flexibility when it comes to transferring files between systems, specifically when one of those systems is SharePoint. SharePoint has some default fields, such as name, modified by, and modified time. Now, imagine a scenario where the SharePoint admin adds a custom field for the file creation date and time. They're looking for this to reflect when the file was created at the source, not when it was uploaded to SharePoint. The requirement is for TMFT (the Transfer Management File Transfer) to extract that creation time from the source and input it into the custom field in SharePoint. However, the limitation with GoAnywhere MFT is that it primarily offers an upload option to SharePoint without allowing flexibility in terms of selecting and mapping SharePoint fields. This lack of adaptability can be problematic. There are default connectors and datasets in GoAnywhere MFT that can be modified to some extent for specific needs. Yet, when unique requirements arise, users often have to find workarounds or navigate through different processes to achieve their goals. If GoAnywhere MFT could enhance its flexibility in selecting data and transferring files, it would significantly improve the overall user experience.

I have been using GoAnywhere MFT  for approximately four years.

Obviously, there are no solutions in IT that are completely free of bugs. However, in terms of stability, GoAnywhere MFT is quite reliable. I would rate it a nine for stability.

It's scalable. However, within our organization, we have some architectural restrictions that prevent us from utilizing API calls. Therefore, while it is scalable, there are certain limitations. For example, some connectors like SAP are not available, so I would rate scalability at seven.

Currently, there are over 150 to 180 users utilizing the GoAnywhere solution in our organization.

I would rate them a ten out of ten. The vendor support is one of the best ones I've ever worked with. They are always available, even if I need to call them in the middle of the night. They not only help you resolve issues but also ensure that you feel comfortable managing them in the future. Their support team is friendly and accommodating, making vendor support one of the best features of GoAnywhere MFT.

Positive

I have worked with on-premises TIBCO MFT. The GoAnywhere MFT platform is an outstanding MFT solution. If I were to rate the effectiveness of various MFT systems, I would place TIBCO MFT at about 50%, while GoAnywhere MFT easily stands at 90%. This is because other MFT tools, like TIBCO MFT, can be quite complex. They typically require multiple components, such as an internet server platform, a server command center, and various infrastructure platforms, to ensure that file transfers occur smoothly. In contrast, GoAnywhere MFT consolidates everything into one platform, making the process much simpler.

Additionally, when comparing GoAnywhere MFT to other tools, one of its significant advantages is reliability. The way GoAnywhere MFT handles issue investigation is much more efficient. It features an extensive logging system that allows users to easily review logs and identify what went wrong and how to fix it. On the other hand, with other MFT systems, like TIBCO MFT, we often had to struggle to pinpoint the exact problems. In this regard, GoAnywhere MFT surpasses other MFT platforms that I have experience with.

One more thing to consider when comparing GoAnywhere MFT to other tools is its reliability and the approach it takes to investigate issues. GoAnywhere MFT has a much more extensive logging system, making it easier to navigate the logs and determine what went wrong or how to fix a problem. In contrast, with other MFTs, like TIBCO MFT, we often struggled to pinpoint the exact issue. In this regard, GoAnywhere MFT outperforms other MFT platforms that I have worked with.

It’s on the cloud. It’s on Azure Linux servers.

I was not the primary point of contact during the initial deployment, but I worked with the team that handled it. It was quite complicated because when you set up the GoAnywhere MFT for the first time, there are many components to configure. You need to set up storage separately, manage the database, configure the GoAnywhere MFT nodes, and set up the gateway nodes. Additionally, you have to create user groups and ensure that access is limited to the right individuals. Overall, the initial setup was lengthy and a bit complicated. It took months. If I remember correctly, it was around two to two and a half months.

It does require maintenance. There are different types of maintenance we need to consider. First, there are the Linux servers on which it's installed, specifically the Azure Linux servers. The Azure Linux team provides guidelines that require us to perform certain installations and upgrades on those servers. For instance, if we are using Tomcat with GoAnywhere MFT, it's installed on that server as well. If the server team plans to upgrade Tomcat, we must check with the GoAnywhere MFT product team to ensure that the new GoAnywhere MFT version will be compatible with Tomcat. If it is compatible, we need to ensure the maintenance and upgrade process goes smoothly without impacting GoAnywhere MFT. If it’s not compatible, we’ll need to find ways to make the GoAnywhere MFT version compatible.

Also, the GoAnywhere MFT team releases a new version every six months, so we must make thorough preparations and develop a plan for the upgrade. Additionally, from a performance standpoint, if volume utilization increases, we need to assess whether to remove some items or increase the storage size. Just a couple of weeks ago, I had to increase the storage from 1TB to 1.5TB because it was impacting performance—the file transfers were becoming slow. Therefore, various maintenance activities need to be performed regularly.

I'm not the best person to discuss this, but from my experience, I can estimate a return on investment (ROI) of about 30% to 40%. This is because you often spend a lot on legacy tools but receive very little value in return. However, when you transition to this platform, you can implement many solutions using existing products and licenses without incurring significant additional costs. As a result, you can implement more solutions that can generate additional revenue. So, I would assume a return on investment of around 30% to 40% percent.

It is cost-efficient.

The purchase of the solution was a direct purchase.

I would strongly recommend it. The way it manages our file transfers, along with the excellent vendor support and automation capabilities, makes it a worthwhile tool for file transfers.

I would rate it a ten out of ten.

I am still trying to figure out my use cases for GoAnywhere MFT  as I am still learning how to use it and determining the best way to utilize the software.

What I can suggest right now about GoAnywhere MFT  is the integration of AI for chat support, as I am still trying to find my way around the app. I would appreciate seeing an AI assistant for GoAnywhere MFT . For a first-time user, instead of struggling to learn how to use it independently, you could ask, 'GoAnywhere MFT bot, can you help me with this? Can you help me with that? How do I do this? How do I do that?' Just quick, on-the-spot assistance.

I feel everything that is there is sufficient. I do not think there is a need to add anything. People always say there is always room for improvement, but for me, it is enough, so it does not appear that everything is clashing. I feel there is nothing to improve right now. However, as time progresses, perhaps because of innovation and new technology, they will find new things to implement. The only thing I believe they should implement is what I mentioned about the assistant, where users can ask questions and get answers immediately.

I started using GoAnywhere MFT about a week ago, having seen the review, so I just registered for the review. It has not been more than a week since I began using it.

I have not seen any lagging, crashing, downtime, or any sort of instability with GoAnywhere MFT. By now I would have complained about that.

The user interface is fine. I do not know if they have integrated any chat support or chatbot where you can ask quick questions and get answers within 24 hours. For me, the user interface is understandable; it is not something that required extensive effort to use. I am the type of person that, if I have an issue, I search on YouTube or Google or ask ChatGPT, 'How do I understand this better?' It is not difficult for me, but I feel a 24-hour chatbot would be beneficial instead of using external resources.

Positive

I have never used any other alternatives to GoAnywhere MFT.

The initial installation for GoAnywhere MFT was easy for me because I could use YouTube, so it was straightforward to follow and implement. However, not every first-time user might find it easy. For me, it was not so difficult.

Regarding GoAnywhere MFT's pricing, I think it is quite affordable since it was subscribed for me by my boss.

The main reason behind getting GoAnywhere MFT was that it was recommended to me by my boss, so I am still trying to learn how to use it. It is software that was recommended for me to learn; to learn how to use, find out the details of the whole software, how it works, and implement it because I work as a full-stack developer.

On a scale from one to ten, with ten being the highest, I rate GoAnywhere MFT a seven. I am just a user of GoAnywhere MFT; I do not have any partnerships with them. I have no problem if the GoAnywhere MFT team wants to contact me if they have any questions about this review. I am always available and okay with being a reference for GoAnywhere MFT, which allows their marketing department to contact me later.

As I said, mainly for secure automated file transfer between our internal systems and the databases such as MySQL  and the external business partners. We use GoAnywhere MFT  for secure protocols such as Secure File Transfer Protocol, File Transfer Protocol, and HTTPS. I have used it for securely transferring the files.

As a core data engineer, I used to transfer the files over the databases with GoAnywhere MFT . I haven't used any other tools to transfer the files. This is the first software I'm using to transfer files as a tool, so I don't know very much about other tools.

I appreciate the features of GoAnywhere MFT  such as advanced workflows to automate all the transfer and reduce manual effort. The logs and reporting are very helpful for checking all the compliances. The encryption is quite good. The main feature which is very useful is connectors to connect it with cloud services such as AWS , Azure , GCP.

The automation in GoAnywhere MFT  really helps us because it reduced the manual work significantly. We can transfer hundreds of files with zero manual interventions. The audit trails also help during the compliance audits. It has given stakeholders more confidence in the security of file transfer. It also helped developers to securely transfer the files. Overall, the impact was very good and positive in our business and personal improvements.

Overall GoAnywhere MFT is good, but I would love to see more AI-driven analytics for monitoring. In our company, the data analyst used to monitor it for transfer patterns and they require some more modern UI and smoother upgrades with less downtime. This feature could be improved to make it better.

The transferring with GoAnywhere MFT is not visible during maintenance. We have to monitor it manually, so there is a need for a dedicated team to manually monitor it. It needs some maintenance.

I am a data engineer professionally and I have been using GoAnywhere MFT for around six months, as I have started a new job in Cognifize. I use it mainly for secure automated file transfer. I am still learning it because it's a little bit complex at the start.

At the start, the process of deploying GoAnywhere MFT and the learning curve was very difficult. Currently, it feels quite easy. The deployment is quite easy for me now, but at the start, there were difficulties to deploy it.

Both stability and scalability of GoAnywhere MFT are strong points as it's a very scalable file transfer tool. Stability is good. We started with a few jobs and scaled it to 100 without any issue. Stability is excellent, downtime is rare, and even large files can be transferred completely without any problem.

Both stability and scalability of GoAnywhere MFT are strong points as it's a very scalable file transfer tool. We started with a few jobs and scaled it to 100 without any issue. Stability is excellent, downtime is rare, and even large files can be transferred completely without any problem.

The technical support for GoAnywhere MFT is very responsive. We have raised many tickets, and the support engineers had deep product knowledge and they are very helpful. I would rate them an 8 out of 10.

I haven't started working on agents in GoAnywhere MFT.

Sometimes we use GoFast in GoAnywhere MFT because there are many failures or server issues. We use GoFast because the protocol sometimes doesn't work properly.

There are 30 to 35 members in my overall data engineering team who use GoAnywhere MFT.

GoAnywhere MFT saves a lot of time because it automates approximately 20% to 30% of manual work. In terms of money, it really saves 30% to 40%. We can make it 30% to 40% time saved with GoAnywhere MFT.

I think the price of GoAnywhere MFT is moderate because it's not much on the higher side and not also on the lower side. It's quite good, but it's a choice of my company's.

As of now, I have used only Salesforce  as a CRM  with GoAnywhere MFT and some databases such as MySQL . I haven't started any ERP  yet, but I am working on CRM  such as the Salesforce  platform.

When I was working as a full-stack developer at the start, I used Secure Forms once with GoAnywhere MFT, but not currently because I totally changed my career to data engineering.

I really want to recommend GoAnywhere MFT to others because it's really good for transferring files securely. There are many other tools available in the market, but this is affordable. We can afford it for small organizations. I have rated this solution 9 out of 10.

My use cases for GoAnywhere MFT are that we are basically using it to automate all our inbound and outbound file transfers that we have with different clients and different users through the HTTPS protocols, FTP, et cetera. 

We transfer files internally and externally using various different means such as the FTP server, so that we can easily transform our day-to-day file transfer from one source to another.

What I appreciate most about GoAnywhere MFT is that it has all the features we require, with comprehensive security features being the most notable. 

I find that agents work very perfectly whenever they are required. Whenever we have to call any kind of file transfer protocols, the agents are activated very instantly and are working perfectly fine.

Their CLI or command-line interface is very good, and the automation of all the file transfers that we have is fantastic. 

I saw the benefits of GoAnywhere MFT within 15 to 21 days, as we are using it to automate all the processes. The secure forms are highly secured, as they follow all the security protocols such as HTTPS and FTPS, so we are not worried about the security concerns. 

In terms of secure forms that allow you to fill out and submit information online through a custom-made form, they always prompt for the required permissions to initiate any kind of transfers. The user credential is always required for that.

In the areas where GoAnywhere MFT could improve, I find that for a few tasks, sometimes it becomes more complex because the workflows they have are complex to understand. 

Their product documentation is very hard to learn. It requires deep knowledge of technical expertise or prior product expertise to learn more about this product. 

Sometimes we see that the product has some bugs in some stages while we are automating the file transfers from our systems, and we have seen some bugs where the output is not generated as expected. 

The Fortra or GoAnywhere team could provide training material or product documentation in a very easy format or make it easily available to the end-users. If they simplified their work logic or the workflows within Fortra, it would be great. Otherwise, it is always a challenge for the users.

I have been using GoAnywhere MFT for 2.6 years.

Except for the few bugs that we have identified, everything is fine and stable.

Regarding the bugs I have encountered, we have seen cases where we have initiated the file transfer from one source to another, however, it was interrupted in the middle and prompts some messages that are unable to be read by humans. These are encrypted messages, which indicate that the operation was interrupted in between.

Scalability is something we generally don't require. Once upon a time, we did require it because we had a large amount of data to transport from one location to another, but except for that, I can say that it is highly scalable.

I have contacted the technical support or customer support many times. The quality of support is fine, however, I can say that they are not very technical professionals. Whenever we see or observe any kind of bugs, they simply say to just log the ticket or email our customer support, and they will get back to us. By following their resolution methods, we are unable to find those steps, so ultimately, we have to troubleshoot from our end and look after all these things from our end only.

Neutral

It took me the first seven to ten days to fully set it up.

It does not require any maintenance on my end, as it is managed by Fortra, and it is a managed service.

A team of generally six to seven people was required initially, and after the initial setup, they left this group to work on some other operations. Initially, there were six to seven, and later on, it is supported by three to four members.

Their pricing is not so high; it is moderated, and we can easily afford it.

I have used alternatives to GoAnywhere MFT, including TeamViewer and some open-source software such as FTP transfer. Within MS-DOS, we have tried, and for cloud-based solutions, we have used AWS file transfer services.

The learning curve for GoAnywhere MFT is hard if you are going through the product documentation and manuals. However, if you are doing hands-on and practical learning, then it is easy. One or two persons who are very non-technical are functional guys, but they are now able to work on this by giving them the initial hands-on training or practical training, while those technical people always follow them.

Overall, GoAnywhere MFT is fine, and I would rate it nine out of ten. We are only customers of Fortra, as we are using the product. We are not providing any kind of reselling or acting as a software vendor.