SFTP
What is SFTP?
SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is a secure way to transfer files between computers over the internet. Think of it as a secure shared folder: the agency places files in one location, and eCourtDate automatically picks them up. Unlike emailing files or uploading them manually through a web browser, SFTP transfers happen automatically on a schedule and are encrypted to protect sensitive data in transit.
Why do agencies use SFTP? Many agencies export data from their case management systems as files (CSV, Excel, etc.) on a nightly or weekly basis. SFTP automates this process so those files are automatically sent to eCourtDate for processing, with no manual uploading required.
Overview
SFTP automates flat file transfers to the eCourtDate Uploads feature. It connects the agency's file export workflow to eCourtDate so that data moves from the case management system into the platform without manual steps.
Many agencies export data from their case management systems as CSV, TXT, or XLSX files on a recurring schedule. SFTP monitors a remote server or storage bucket for new files, retrieves them automatically, and processes them through a configured Upload Template. This eliminates the need to log in to the Console and upload files by hand.
SFTP is configured in two parts in the Console:
- A Server is the file source. It can be an eCourtDate managed server (hosted on AWS GovCloud), the agency's own external SFTP server, or an S3 bucket.
- An SFTP Profile watches a directory on that server, runs new files through an Upload Template, and syncs on a schedule.
Create the server first, then one or more SFTP Profiles against it. A profile can link to a server or hold its own connection details (a "Manual" profile).
Data Flow
Use Cases
- Batch Data Imports: Agencies that export hearing schedules, payment records, or client rosters as flat files can have those files picked up automatically on an hourly cycle.
- Multi-Agency Feeds: A single SFTP server can host directories for multiple agencies or data types, each routed to the correct Upload Template through SFTP Profiles.
- Scheduled Synchronization: Agencies that generate nightly or weekly exports can rely on Auto-Sync to pick up and process files as soon as they appear.
Supported Sources
| Source Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Managed Server | eCourtDate provisions and hosts an SFTP server on AWS GovCloud. The agency connects to it and pushes files. See Managed Server. |
| External SFTP Server | Connect to an SFTP server the agency operates, using password or SSH key authentication. |
| S3 Bucket | Connect to an Amazon S3-compatible storage bucket using access key credentials. |
Getting Started
- Server Setup: Create a server and configure SFTP Profiles.
- Managed Server: Use an eCourtDate-hosted server, find its IP, allowlist the IP, and download the key.
- Authentication: Set up SSH keys and connect with the preferred SFTP client.
- Upload Templates: Map file columns to eCourtDate fields and set up processing rules.
Console
Manage the SFTP servers and profiles in the eCourtDate Console:
https://console.ecourtdate.com/sftps
Additional Resources
- Directory Structure: Organize source directories for multi-feed workflows.
- File Naming Convention: Recommended naming patterns for uploaded files.
- Auto-Sync & Downloads: Scheduling and automatic file retrieval.
- Upload Acknowledgements: Confirm successful processing.
- SFTP Errors: Common connection and transfer errors.
- SFTP Troubleshooting: Diagnostic commands and debug logging.
Need help? Open a support ticket in the Console using the Help button in the bottom-right corner.