SAP has been around for a long time and has a very extensive, robust and mature API ecosystem. Over the years, various technologies have been added, ranging from IDocs to RFCs and BAPIs, to Web Services, to REST and OData. The NLINK Server can consume and generate all of these different formats so that customers can choose and use the most appropriate methods for their unique use cases.

NLINK supports a wide variety of industry standard communication methods and protocols. Additionally, when it comes to SAP, NLINK connects as a standard SAP user, which means that all authentication and authorization is handled by the SAP system. And, since NLINK does not permanently store any customer data, almost all of the compliance and data storage regulations do not apply. Regulated industries require, among other things, strong documentation and traceability of process change. NLINK’s self-documenting capabilities and centralization of configuration into a single file significantly simplify such compliance.

They are legion.

Security features vary depending on the underlying technology of each Connector. All NLINK Connectors utilize appropriate industry-standard security protocols.

NLINK is configuration-based. Everything NLINK needs to know is contained within a single configuration file. The NLINK Server reads the configuration file at startup and then waits to receive data or waits for a schedule to run before retrieving some data. During runtime, the NLINK Server does not retain or store anything except session-based transient data as it passes through. Consequently, if a catastrophic hardware failure occurs, for example, customers can simply go to the 24x7x365 customer support site, download a new installation file, generate a new temporary license and then install a new functional system. Adding their specific configuration file completes the job and the system is up and running. An experienced person could realistically achieve all of this in 15-20 minutes. Of course, a little forethought would allow all of this to be pre-staged and the only requirement would be to download and deploy a new temporary NLINK license (less than 5 minutes).

If you are going to do your own NLINK configuration, we offer 3-day or 5-day remote training courses to help you learn how to use the NLINK Configuration Module and the specific Connectors you have purchased. If we are doing your configuration, your designated NLINK administrators need only watch a few videos and read some high-level documentation. Hands-on training is provided during the deployment to make sure the appropriate personnel are completely comfortable with running and monitoring the interfaces and how to contact customer support if necessary.