How to connect NetSuite and SFTP the easy way

NetSuite can push and pull files over SFTP for nightly jobs, vendor feeds, and audit exports. You don’t need to run servers, however, since SFTP To Go gives you secure, managed storage that speaks secure SFTP, FTPS, S3, and HTTPS. 

In a few focused steps you can connect NetSuite using the SFTP Connector SuiteApp or drive the flow with SuiteScript N/sftp. Along the way we call out the two issues teams see most often in the wild: server host keys and strict credential limits.

Before you start: SFTP To Go prep

Step 1. Set NetSuite friendly passwords

SFTP To Go Dashboard → Settings → Security → Password policy → allow 15 characters or fewer. Reset that user’s password. You can restore your original policy after NetSuite connects.

Step 2. Create or reuse a user

SFTP To Go Dashboard → Credentials → create credentials or expand an existing one to view the Host and username. Make sure to use a username no longer than 15 characters.

Step 3. Obtain the server host key

Retrieve the RSA host key for the Host by running the following in your terminal or Windows, with the hostname copied from the credentials tab:

ssh-keyscan [hostname]

You can read here for more information.

Path 1: NetSuite SFTP Connector SuiteApp

This is the fastest way to get reliable transfers without writing code. 

Step 1. Set up SFTP Connector

Set up the SFTP Connector as documented here. 

Step 2. Create the configuration

Next, go to SFTP Records → Outbound Configurations or Inbound → New. 

Fill out the following fields:

• Host: the value shown in SFTP To Go Credentials..
• Port: 22.
• Authentication: username and password. Keep username and password low since Netsuite SFTP connector reportedly prefers lower character counts.
• Remote path: your target directory in SFTP To Go.
• Host key: paste the exact RSA host key from SFTP To Go prep Step 3.

More info here.

Step 3. Test

Click Test Connection.

Step 4. Schedule

Use the SuiteApp scheduler to automate pushes and pulls. 

Benefits of using this SFTP and Netsuite integration path? You get mapped folders, a test button, and a built in scheduler. Operations can own the flow while engineering focuses on upstream and downstream systems.

Path 2: SuiteScript with N/sftp

You should choose this when you need dynamic filenames, conditional routing, or two way sync controlled by your logic.

Step 1. Capture parameters

Use the Host from SFTP To Go Credentials, port 22, username, password or key, plus the RSA host key.

Step 2. Create the connection

You can create a connection using  this method.

Step 3. Transfer files

conn.upload({ file: fileObj, directory: '/path', replaceExisting: true });
// or
conn.download({ directory: '/path', filename: 'file.txt' });

Step 4. Deploy as a Scheduled Script

 Run this on whatever cadence you need.

Benefits of this path? You get to keep business rules, naming, and timing inside NetSuite while SFTP To Go provides secure transport and storage.

Branding and custom domains

A clear URL and a branded portal reduce confusion for partners, but it’s probably best that you do this before you set up a connection.

Step 1. Create a CNAME

In your DNS, point your chosen subdomain to your SFTP To Go Host.

Step 2. Verify in SFTP To Go

SFTP To Go Dashboard → Settings → Network → Domains → add and verify. You can also set it as default if desired. More info here.

Step 3. Customize the web portal

SFTP To Go Dashboard → Settings → Branding → set icon, logo, and colors for light and dark modes. More info right here.

Sharing and notifications

Here’s how to keep partners moving and keep yourself informed, the following can all be set up quickly through your SFTP To Go dashboard.

Step 1. Share files or folders

From the SFTP To Go Dashboard, choose Share Links. Configure expiry, access limits, passwords, and permissions. Availability depends on plan and user permissions. More info here.

Step 2. Add notifications

SFTP To Go Dashboard→Webhooks → Add webhook or choose Email. Topics/events include: file.created, file.deleted, file.downloaded. You also have the option to filter by Path, Actor ID, or Actor Type. More info right here.

Troubleshooting common issues

Start by proving the SFTP side, then narrow down the NetSuite configuration.

Isolate the culprit

If NetSuite Test Connection fails, connect with a standard SFTP client using the same Host and credentials. If that works, focus on NetSuite settings.

Fix credential limits

Netsuite prefers shorter passwords here, so ensure the NetSuite used username and password are 15 characters or fewer and you should be good to go. Reset as needed and retest.

Finally,

You have what you need to move files safely and predictably using Netsuite and SFTP. Of course, if you haven’t signed up for SFTP To Go yet, there’s no better time than now.

If you want a fast start with a clear schedule, use the SFTP Connector. If you need custom logic, use SuiteScript N/sftp. Use the exact RSA host key from SFTP To Go, keep NetSuite credentials 15 characters or fewer, test the connection, and turn on notifications if you need them. Your partners get a simple, familiar place to send and fetch files, and your team gets transfers you can trust without running servers.

Read this for more information about what makes SFTP so secure.