The Secure Store and Forward (SSF) mechanism is used by SAP systems to digitally sign and encrypt documents. SSF is intended to make documents secure no matter how they are stored or transferred. SSF uses Public-key cryptography.
Contents
SAP NetWeaver
SAP NetWeaver uses SSF to protect arbitrary data within the SAP system. It also uses SSF to transfer data over insecure communication links.
Restrictions
SSF requires a third-party security provider for the function. SAP does provide the SAP Cryptographic Library for free though, however this can only provide digital signatures and does not cover Digital Envelopes, Encryption, or Crypto Hardware (e.g., Smart Cards).
References
Secure Store and Forward Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA