FTAPI product outlook 2023

The importance of IT security and data protection continues to grow. Against the backdrop of global political tensions, headlines about cyberattacks on critical infrastructures and public authorities are increasingly taking centre stage. As a result, investments and efforts to counter these threats are on the rise, aiming to prevent economic losses and reputational damage. Guided by the vision of Securing Digital Freedom, FTAPI Software GmbH remains committed to developing solutions for secure data exchange and automated data workflows to comprehensively protect data, systems, and digital identities through the use of advanced technologies.

To elevate the user experience and simultaneously enhance the security and resilience of our customers' infrastructure against potential attacks, our product development in 2023 will focus on three key areas: security, data rooms, and user experience. Kornelius Brunner, CPO at FTAPI, provides an exclusive outlook on the specific changes planned for 2023.

Security & cloud

Enhancing security with regular certifications

Security is FTAPI's top priority. High security standards apply not only to the platform's products but also to the company and its people. While ISO 27001 and BSI C5 certifications have already been achieved, certifications will remain a key focus in 2023. In addition to recertification under the ISO 27001 standard, further certifications are being pursued. To bolster protection against cybercriminals, regular penetration tests are conducted on the FTAPI Secure Cloud, performed by renowned experts, including SySS GmbH.

New premium antivirus scanner for extra protection

FTAPI has incorporated the premium antivirus scanner from G DATA into its portfolio to enhance its security features. Hosted in the FTAPI Cloud, this scanner ensures that even large files or archives can be scanned for malware as needed, providing scalable protection.

Advancing the cloud-first strategy

FTAPI has embraced a cloud-first strategy over the past few years and will continue this trajectory in 2023. Cloud operations form the foundation of efficient and secure customer system management. Product development is now entirely aligned with the "cloud" operating model when it comes to new products and functionalities.

In 2022, FTAPI revolutionised its cloud infrastructure with SysEleven, an ISO 27001-certified partner and hosting provider. This infrastructure meets the highest security standards and offers significant advantages, including regular security audits and penetration testing. Daily backups are also performed, and storage capacity can be expanded flexibly without limits. The majority of FTAPI customers already operate within this high-performance cloud environment. By the end of 2023, all existing customers will be migrated to FTAPI's Frankfurt-based cloud servers.

To optimise user experience and functionality, FTAPI focuses exclusively on "cloud-ready" technologies. Customers will receive recommendations on new technologies and support during migration. For outdated technologies (e.g., LDAPS) that hinder operations and future product development, FTAPI plans to discontinue support in future versions. Customers will be informed in advance about system requirement changes and will receive assistance during the transition.

Virtual data rooms & automation

Harnessing the potential of automation

Digitalisation enables businesses to conduct processes automatically and paperlessly. By leveraging software tools and systems that capture, store, process, and share data, efficiency can be significantly improved. For example, automated processes like digital payroll can save both time and costs. FTAPI provides its customers with SecuFlows, a service that automates such workflows. To date, over 500 individual SecuFlows have been successfully implemented.

To make the complex topic more accessible and to help customers unlock the full potential of their digital data workflows, FTAPI plans to enhance the visibility of SecuFlows within its platform. This includes introducing templates, dashboards, and interactive processes.

New features: FTAPI SecuRooms

Launched in summer 2022, FTAPI SecuRooms, the new data room solution, has already been adopted by over 25% of customers. In 2023, further enhancements are planned to increase its value to users. SecuRooms will gain additional functionalities, including detailed activity logs for transparency and accountability and an expanded permission system.

To securely exchange highly sensitive data and documents, end-to-end encryption will be implemented for SecuRooms by mid-2023. This upgrade will also allow the handling of large files directly in the browser, eliminating the need for the desktop client by late 2023.

End-of-life for FTAPI Data Rooms

An important notice for all customers still using the legacy FTAPI Data Rooms: By the end of Q3 2023, the old data rooms will be fully replaced by FTAPI SecuRooms. FTAPI will notify affected customers promptly with a detailed timeline and provide guidance on the necessary migration steps.

Continuous improvement & user experience

FTAPI updates and user onboarding

FTAPI is dedicated to meeting the growing demands for IT security while continuously improving the user experience. Regular updates deliver the latest developments to customers. Additionally, FTAPI requires customers to use only current technologies, supporting only modern browser and Outlook versions.

FTAPI will also reduce the support burden for IT administrators by enhancing user onboarding and providing proactive guidance on new features and functionalities.

New version of SecuPass technology

The leading FTAPI SecuPass encryption technology is widely used for secure data transfer. In 2023, user feedback will be leveraged to make end-to-end encryption even simpler and more intuitive. This will improve the overall user experience and increase adoption rates for end-to-end encryption.

At the same time, FTAPI is expanding its encryption technology with a focus on future developments in quantum technology, ensuring the platform remains at the forefront of security innovations.

Facelift: redesigned web interface for FTAPI SecuMails

One key development for 2023 is the enhanced user experience across FTAPI’s platforms and products. The web interface for FTAPI SecuMails, in particular, will be updated with a new, modern design. This redesign ensures that users can navigate the platform more intuitively and unlock its full potential.

If you have any questions or suggestions about the planned developments in product innovation, you can find a comprehensive overview of all the latest updates from FTAPI.

Of course, the entire FTAPI team is available to assist with any inquiries. Simply book a consultation appointment with one of our experts or reach out to your existing FTAPI contact person.