ERP Integration with Zalion
Zalion integrates with ERP systems to read and update real-time data such as purchase orders, supplier master data, and invoices. The chosen method depends on whether your ERP is cloud-based or on-premise.
Option 1: Cloud-Based API Integration
Zalion connects directly to your cloud-based ERP systems via secure API interfaces.
Capabilities
- Real-time read and write access
- Full control over data scopes and permissions
- Trigger- or schedule-based interaction supported
Technical Requirements
- API endpoint must be accessible and documented
- OAuth 2.0, API key, or custom token authentication
- Zalion IP addresses must be whitelisted on the customer's firewall
Security & Compliance
- TLS 1.3 encryption
- No persistent data outside customer-allocated storage
- Logging and auditing of all API calls
Recommended for: Modern cloud systems (e.g., SAP S/4HANA Cloud) where real-time interaction and full integration depth are required.
Option 2: SFTP-Based File Exchange
Zalion exchanges files with a customer-provided SFTP server on a fixed schedule (typically 4× daily).
Supported Formats: XML, JSON, CSV
Requirements
- SFTP endpoint provided by the customer
- Read/write access to agreed-upon folders
- Zalion IP whitelisting through the customer's firewall
- Key-based SSH authentication (no passwords)
Security
- AES-256 encrypted data transfers
- Folder-level access control
- Logging of all file operations
Recommended for: On-premise systems (e.g., SAP ECC, Navision) where API integration is not possible.
Option 3: Network Folder Access
Zalion accesses a secure network directory (e.g., SMB share or NAS) within the customer's network.
Requirements
- Shared folder with specific access permissions
- Firewall whitelisting for Zalion connector
- Credentials and folder paths securely configured
Security
- Access governed by the customer's internal network policies
- Read and write permissions restricted to specific folders
- No execution permissions
Recommended for: On-premise systems where neither API nor SFTP access is possible.
ERP Integration Comparison
| Method | System Type | Real-Time Capable | Access Requirement | Encryption |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| API Integration | Cloud systems | Yes | Firewall whitelisting, OAuth | TLS 1.3 |
| SFTP File Exchange | On-premise/Cloud | No (batch, 4× daily) | SFTP credentials & IP whitelist | AES-256 |
| Network Folder Access | On-premise systems | No (batch, 4× daily) | Folder access & IP whitelist | Internal policy |
During onboarding, we define the optimal integration path, format conventions, and operational procedures together with your IT team.