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 — your 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 courts use SFTP? Many courts export data from their case management systems as files (CSV, Excel, etc.) on a nightly or weekly basis. SFTP lets you automate this process so those files are automatically sent to eCourtDate for processing — no manual uploading required.
Overview
SFTP automates flat file transfers to the eCourtDate Uploads feature. It connects your agency's file export workflow to eCourtDate so that data moves from your case management system into the platform without manual intervention.
Overview
Many courts and public safety 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.
Use Cases
- Batch Data Imports -- Courts that export hearing schedules, payment records, or client rosters as flat files can have those files ingested 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 |
|---|---|
| SFTP Server | Connect to any standard SFTP server using password or SSH key authentication. |
| S3 Bucket | Connect to an Amazon S3-compatible storage bucket using access key credentials. |
| Managed Infrastructure | eCourtDate provisions and hosts the SFTP server on AWS GovCloud on your behalf. |
Getting Started
- Server Setup -- Create a server connection and configure SFTP Profiles.
- Authentication -- Set up SSH keys and connect with your preferred SFTP client.
- Upload Templates -- Map file columns to eCourtDate fields and configure processing rules.
Console
Manage your 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? Contact the eCourtDate team at help@ecourtdate.com.