How does AS2 compare with AS1?
AS2 is an adjustment of AS1 so that it is capable of using HTTP instead of SMTP. It is not a replacement or a new specification as such. AS1 specifies the packaging of the data along with an initial transport mechanism (SMTP). AS2 extends the AS1 specification by adding another transport (HTTP). AS2 also broadens the specification by specifically acknowledging the usefulness of the specifications for alternate data types. The AS2 specification supports EDI or any other data transmittals over the Internet using HTTP. AS2 is a specification about how to transport data, not how to validate or process data. AS2 specifies the means to connect, deliver, validate and reply to (receipt) data in a secure and reliable way. The data is then dispatched to the appropriate processor based upon its content-type. AS2 makes no specification about how that dispatch or subsequent processing is accomplished. Vendors who sell AS2 compliant software will also provide the correct processing packages to suppo
