How to Connect Salesforce to FTP Server

FTP has been used for transferring files for dozens of years, so it’s familiar to many tech and non-tech professionals. Salesforce is another popular solution, but it has another purpose – to keep customer records and get a 360-degree audience overview. Meanwhile, Salesforce FTP integration reveals many benefits for businesses. So, this article explores the popular methods to connect Salesforce to the FTP server and exchange data.

How Do FTP Servers Work?

FTP is an acronym for file transfer protocol used to send documents over the network. FTP servers receive and send files using the FTP protocol.

Files can be sent to an FTP server either from a personal computer or from a cloud app, such as Salesforce. The same goes for downloading documents from the server – they can be saved either on a PC or transferred to an online app, database, or DWH.

The common use of an FTP server is to provide a midpoint platform between senders and receivers. For instance, a CSV file from Salesforce uploaded to the FTP server can be downloaded by other users who have access to the same server.

What is Salesforce?

Salesforce is one of the most popular customer relationship management (CRM) systems in the US and globally. It’s a highly customizable tool that offers a high degree of flexibility for businesses. Salesforce is suitable for marketing teams, salespeople, customer support and care teams, etc.

Use Cases for Salesforce FTP Integration

Document Management

Salesforce has dedicated services for file storage, but there are certain limitations associated with it. The maximum amount of data for document storage is limited on Salesforce and depends on the current license an organization is on. Very often, native document storage and management appears to be a costly option. So, businesses try to find alternative solutions for keeping all the documents, invoices, and contracts.

As an FTP server is designed to store documents and files, even large ones, it makes sense to transfer contracts and documents from Salesforce there. The link to these files on FTP can be easily added to the corresponding records in Salesforce.

Another limitation of document management on Salesforce is the collaboration and sharing capabilities. Files can only be accessed for viewing by internal organization members. Meanwhile, the FTP server allows users to share files with external stakeholders. Thus, Salesforce FTP integration promoted better experiences for file sharing and document management.

Data Migration from Legacy Systems

If you need to migrate data from an old-fashioned CRM to Salesforce, FTP could be a good midpoint for that. It ensures great interoperability between modern and outdated technologies. Therefore, many legacy systems rely on FTP for data exchange and communication.

All you need to do is to ingest all the data from a legacy system first. Then upload these files to the FTP server, connect Salesforce to FTP, and extract that data into the CRM with the dedicated data integration tools. Overall, Salesforce integration with FTP resolved the legacy systems data migration.

Data Backup and Recovery

Even though Salesforce is a cloud application, it’s not obliged to guarantee the integrity of your data stored there. Salesforce providers are only responsible for the availability and uptime of the service. Ensuring user data safety is the responsibility of the business owners.

So, Salesforce integration with an FTP server can serve as a reliable backup and recovery method. First, you need to send a copy of Salesforce data to the server. In case of any system failure or data breaches, you’ll be able to use this data for restoring records in Salesforce.

Benefits of Connecting Salesforce to FTP Server

Connecting Salesforce to an FTP server offers a range of advantages for businesses.

1. Automated data transfer: It reduces the need for manual input and repetitive tasks. This greatly contributes to resource optimization and human error reduction.
2. Enhanced data management: An FTP server can be a centralized storage platform within an organization. Sending Salesforce data to an FTP server might be helpful when there is a need for data backup, archiving, or sharing with stakeholders.
3. Large file handling: FTP servers are well-suited for transferring and storing large files. Salesforce integration with FTP takes document management to the next level. This is especially useful for handling media files and heavy documents.
4. Enhanced security: FTP servers can be configured with specific access controls, ensuring only authorized users can upload, download, or modify files. This enhances data security and compliance with organizational policies.
5. Integration with other systems and apps: Owing to data integration tools, FTP servers can connect to cloud apps, databases, data warehouses, and other online and on-premises systems.

How to Connect Salesforce and FTP Server

There are multiple methods for integrating Salesforce with an FTP server. One of them is to use the Skyvia data integration tool, suitable for various data-related operations. Skyvia also offers a range of integration scenarios and data preprocessing options.

To transfer data from Salesforce to an FTP server, you first need to create a Skyvia account or log into the existing one. Then, proceed with the following steps:

Step 1. Create Integration Scenario

1. Navigate to the main menu and select +Create New -> Export.
2. Under the source, select the Cloud App option and pick up Salesforce from the list of connectors.
3. Select CSV to storage service under the Target Type and pick up FTP from the drop-down connections list.

Step 2. Specify Data Integration Parameters

1. Click Add new to set up the integration parameters.
2. Indicate the file name for the resulting file.
3. Select the objects that need to be exported from Salesforce.
4. Decide whether file compression needs to be applied.
5. In the Output Columns, verify the names of the columns and make any changes if needed.

Step 3. Set Recurring Data Load

1. If you’d prefer to make data exports regular, click Schedule in the upper-left corner of the integration scenario screen.
2. Indicate the recurrence preferences, time zone, and scheduling parameters.

Step 4. Start Export

1. Once the integration scenario is set up, click Create.
2. Start the immediate data export by clicking Run or wait for the scheduled export.

Summary

Salesforce integration with an FTP server might be suitable within a series of use cases. Skyvia allows you to connect two systems using the preferred integration scenario.