Setting up an AS2 connector

The AS2 (Applicability Statement 2) protocol is used for securely transmitting business documents in the XML, binary, and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) formats over the internet. It is frequently used in business-to-business data exchange operations. To ensure correct XML data exchange, the Global Data Synchronization Network has identified and defined AS2 as the standard for communication between suppliers and data pools, and data pools and retailers for end-to-end connectivity.

The AS2 protocol is based on the HTTP and SMIME protocols. It allows messages to be encrypted and signed. It also allows the receiver of a message to generate a confirmation message that is sent to the sender of the message. The Global Data Synchronization feature of IBM® Product Master requires a distinct AS2 connector software application that uses the AS2 protocol to communicate with a data pool. The business documents that are exchanged between Product Master and the data pool are in the XML format.

One example of an AS2 connector software that you can use is IBM WebSphere® Partner Gateway.

You must install and configure an AS2 connector to enable IBM Product Master to communicate with a datapool. The AS2 protocol is used for communication between Product Master and a datapool. This protocol provides fast and secure transmission of business data.