AWS Transfer Family

AWS Transfer Family provides fully managed support for file transfers directly into and out of Amazon S3 and Amazon EFS using the Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), File Transfer Protocol over SSL (FTPS), and File Transfer Protocol (FTP). It helps migrate file transfer workflows to AWS easily without the need to modify the applications or processes that utilize these files.

Key Features

• Protocol Support: Supports SFTP, FTPS, and FTP, allowing you to continue to use your existing protocols while transferring files to and from AWS.
• Managed Service: AWS Transfer Family is a fully managed service that takes care of infrastructure, reducing operational overhead.
• Integration with S3 and EFS: Files can be transferred directly into Amazon S3 or Amazon EFS, leveraging their scalability and durability.
• Authentication Options: Supports multiple authentication methods, including service-managed, custom, and existing identity providers via AWS IAM, AD, and LDAP.
• Security: Encrypted data transfer and optional integration with AWS Key Management Service (KMS) to encrypt data at rest.

Architecture Overview

The following diagram illustrates how AWS Transfer Family works with S3 and EFS to manage file transfers:

• File Transfer Protocols: Supports SFTP, FTPS, and FTP for secure file transfers.
• Managed Endpoints: AWS manages the server endpoints, ensuring high availability and scalability.
• Integration with Storage Services: Files are transferred directly to Amazon S3 or Amazon EFS, providing easy access to other AWS services and tools.
• Monitoring and Logging: Integrated with Amazon CloudWatch for monitoring, and AWS CloudTrail for auditing all API calls.

Use Cases

• Data Migration: Migrate existing file transfer workflows to AWS with minimal disruption to your current processes.
• Content Distribution: Use AWS Transfer Family to securely distribute large files, like media content, to a global audience using S3 and CloudFront.
• Backup and Archiving: Transfer critical files to Amazon S3 for long-term storage, leveraging S3's durability and scalability.
• Secure Transfers: Ensure secure and compliant file transfers using protocols like SFTP and FTPS with support for encryption and custom authentication.

Integration with Other AWS Services

AWS Transfer Family integrates seamlessly with various AWS services to offer a comprehensive solution:

• Amazon S3: Store and retrieve files in S3, leveraging its scalability, durability, and integration with other AWS services.
• Amazon EFS: Transfer files to and from Amazon EFS for shared access across multiple EC2 instances or other services.
• AWS IAM: Manage access control to your file transfer endpoints and integrate with existing identity providers.
• AWS CloudWatch: Monitor transfer activity and set alarms for specific events or thresholds.
• AWS CloudTrail: Audit and log all API calls made by AWS Transfer Family for compliance and security purposes.