File Transfer Abstraction Layer for Enterprise Network Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Enterprise networks face operational risks and inefficiencies during file transfers due to complexities in choosing and configuring appropriate file transfer tools, which can lead to human error and compliance issues, especially in large regulated environments.
Innovation Solution
A computing system provides an abstraction layer for file transfer tools, offering a unified user interface to select and provision data paths, and performs sustainment tasks, reducing the need for user expertise and minimizing operational risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple file transfer tools are used to handle different transfer scenarios, then the system becomes more versatile and adaptable to different protocols and requirements, but the complexity of selecting and configuring the appropriate tool increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary abstraction layer between the user and multiple file transfer tools. This layer automatically selects and configures the appropriate tool based on transfer parameters without requiring user expertise. The intermediary handles protocol detection, tool selection, and configuration automatically, resolving the contradiction by hiding complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal file transfer system that can handle multiple protocols and scenarios through a single unified interface. This universal system abstracts away the differences between various file transfer tools, allowing users to interact with one system that automatically adapts to different requirements, thereby maintaining versatility while eliminating the need for users to understand multiple tools.
2Ease of operation
If manual configuration of file transfer tools is required, then users have control over the transfer process, but human error increases and operational reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the file transfer system automatically configures itself based on transfer parameters. The system detects the required protocol, selects the appropriate tool, and configures it without human intervention. This self-service approach eliminates human error while maintaining operational control, as the system makes intelligent decisions based on predefined criteria and automation logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the file transfer process and automatically adjust configurations as needed. The system receives feedback about transfer status, protocol requirements, and system state, then uses this information to make real-time decisions about tool selection and configuration. This closed-loop control improves reliability by ensuring correct configuration without requiring manual user input.
3Reliability
If automated sustainment operations are implemented for data path maintenance, then operational consistency and reliability improve, but the extent of automation increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-configuring sustainment operations and data path maintenance routines before transfers are needed. The system prepares templates, policies, and automation rules in advance, so that when a transfer occurs, the sustainment operations can execute automatically without adding real-time complexity. This preliminary preparation enables reliable automated maintenance while keeping the operational interface simple.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes techniques for providing an abstraction layer for one or more file transfer tools that may operate on a public network, or on a network controlled by an organization or enterprise. In some examples, a computing system may serve as a front-end for a managed file transfer system that may hide some details of the operations performed by the file transfer system. The computing system may interact with one or more managed file transfer systems (or similar systems) to provision a data path between computing systems, perform a file transfer between the computing systems, perform sustainment tasks associated with the data path, and/or perform lifecycle management tasks associated with the data path.