When it comes to the electronic exchange of data (EDI), security is always an important factor. The secure transmission of data is enabled by SSL, which provides encryption and authentication. The algorithm used by most SSL certificates, SHA, has recently transitioned from one version to another. Data Communication Solutions (DCS) recently helped a client get their server up-to-date in order to accommodate this change. In this article, we’ll first introduce what SHA is and then look at DCS’ solution.
SHA Explained
SHA stands for Secure Hashing Algorithm. It’s used by most SSL certificates for the digital signature. SHA-1 is an older version of SHA. SHA-256, or SHA-2 for short, is essentially SHA-1’s successor. The difference between these two versions is that SHA-1 is 160 bits while SHA-2 comes in multiple sizes, the most common being 256 bits. SHA-2 offers stronger certificate updates and stronger encryption strength providing stronger security. SHA-1 was the SSL industry’s primary algorithm for many years, but its shortcomings led it to be replaced by SHA-2 in 2016.
DCS’ Solution
DCS provided Alligacom AS2 support for a medical supply company. One of their existing trading partners was moving from SHA-1 to SHA-2. However, our client’s version of Alligacom didn’t have built in SHA-2 capability. DCS EDI Specialist Jasper Abeyta contacted Alligacom for their software upgrade and installed it for the client.
Alligacom SHA-2 will allow the server owner (host company) to have more than one profile. In order to allow our client to use the new SHA-2 certificate, Jasper created a second profile with this ability. To add a new profile, one of two things needed to change: the AS2 user ID or the Port Number. Jasper changed the User ID and updated the AS2 profile to include the new information.
How DCS Can Help You
Do you need help with getting your server upgraded to ensure that it’s SHA-2 capable and more secure? If so, Data Communication Solutions has the expertise you need. Contact us today to learn how we will find the solutions for your EDI challenges.
