AS2
AS2 (Applicability Statement 2) is a widely used protocol for securely transmitting structured business data — especially EDI — over the internet. It wraps the data with encryption and digital signatures for confidentiality and authenticity, sends it over HTTP/HTTPS, and returns a signed Message Disposition Notification (MDN) — an electronic receipt proving the message was received intact.
AS2 became a standard way for trading partners to exchange EDI documents (orders, invoices, shipping notices, customs and logistics messages) directly and securely without a costly value-added network (VAN), and is mandated by many large retailers and organisations. Its non-repudiation (the signed MDN receipt) and security make it trusted for business-critical exchanges. In logistics and trade, AS2 is one of the common transport mechanisms for EDI-based integration between shippers, carriers, forwarders and partners, alongside SFTP and, increasingly, APIs. Understanding AS2 is useful when setting up secure EDI connections with trading partners. It is part of the toolkit of B2B data exchange in supply chains.
When trading partners exchange EDI orders, invoices and shipping notices, AS2 is a trusted way to do it securely over the internet — encrypted, signed, and with a receipt (MDN) that proves delivery. Mandated by many large retailers, it is a common transport for EDI integration in logistics, so understanding it matters when connecting securely with trading partners.
What is an MDN in AS2?
A Message Disposition Notification — a signed electronic receipt confirming the AS2 message was received intact, providing non-repudiation.
What is AS2 used for?
Securely transmitting EDI and other business data directly between trading partners over the internet, with encryption and receipts.