FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a reliable method for sharing EDI documents. The method is most frequently used for sharing intercompany EDI documents within an organisation. The method is also used for sharing OIOUBL. None of the contents of an FTP transfer is encrypted.

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is the successor to FTP. SFTP is a secure communication protocol for sharing EDI documents. An STPF communication can only be set up to share SFTP certificates. All contents of an SFTP file transfer are encrypted before they are sent.

VAN (Value Added Network) is an easy way to send and receive EDI documents. A VAN service functions somewhat like a hosted postal centre which processes standardised, structured data before sending them to the recipient.

 FTPS is a rarely used communication protocol.

AS2 is one of the most widely used methods for sharing EDI AS2, because it is one of the most secure and reliable ways of sharing data online. Before a document is pushed out through AS2, the document/data are encrypted.