SFTP Integration
SFTP is an established standard how to exchange files in a secure way. It is suitable for files of any size including very large data sets.
Once you opt in for SFTP delivery IDC will place documents and/or data files from products you subscribe to on one of the IDC SFTP servers. You can download the files manually or you can automate the process.
The data files are typically delivered on a periodic basis driven by the delivery period of the subscribed products. The most typical frequency is quarterly but the frequency ranges from weekly to bi-annual.
The research documents are delivered as published and will be spread out through the year.
Overview
IDC SFTP service lets you download IDC Data & Analytics and Research products in an automated (scriptable) manner via SFTP, without needing to log into IDC’s web tools. IDC uses this channel to deliver the same data products available in the Query Tool API (and more) as flat files as well as documents available on my.IDC.com. In other words, most of traditional IDC datasets or research documents you subscribe to can be delivered through SFTP.
- Any documents delivered to you as part of the subscription
- Data sets that are part of your Tracker, Spending Guide, Channel Partner Ecosystem, or one of the Wallet products
The Services Contract Database is only available through APIs.
SFTP access is not enabled by default; you must request it as described in the Setting up SFTP Access section.
Typical Use Cases
SFTP integration is particularly useful if:
- You prefer a file-based data transfer approach (e.g., your internal processes ingest CSV data files or PDF versions of research documents).
- You want to automate nightly downloads of all new data with minimal API logic (just file system operations).
- You have limitations on using web APIs or simply find SFTP fits better with your IT policies.
If instead you need fine-grained data queries, immediate access to incremental data, or access to selected documents the REST API might be more appropriate. Some clients even use both: API for interactive queries and SFTP for periodic full dumps. IDC ensures that the data available via SFTP and API are consistent.