Save the date for an Interoperability Event on updated eDelivery AS4 profile specifications
The eDelivery team is happy to announce an interoperability event in June 2024, the date of which will be confirmed soon. This is an opportunity for participants – software vendors and service providers – to test their (proof of concept) implementation of the message exchange in the AS4 profile version 2.0 using the new cryptography.
Why this event matters
The eDelivery's AS4 profile is a standard for secure and reliable data exchange over the internet, used by public and private organisations to transmit electronic documents and data. It ensures that information is sent and received accurately and securely.
In its new version, the profile replaces RSA with Ed25519 (or, alternatively, EDDSA) and key transport with key exchange. Section 3.2.6.2.3. "Message Encryption" provides updated technical specifications for the message’s security header, with instructions for the sending and receiving AS4 MSH.
Before this new version is adopted as final, it is important for the updated message exchange specifications to be validated in implementations. This event will provide a platform to do so via direct testing among different implementations.
Although the update contains further changes, it is only the message exchange changes that are subject to validation during the event.
Who should be interested?
eDelivery AS4-conformant solution providers should take note. This event is an opportunity for them to validate their (proof of concept) solutions, participate in joint learning and gain exposure.
Moreover, it is a unique opportunity to contribute to the finalisation of the AS4 profile 2.0 specifications.
This event is not of interest for current or prospective users of eDelivery who do not also create software (or services) that implement the eDelivery specifications as it will be exclusively dedicated to testing.
What to expect
The interoperability event will most likely be co-organised with the European Network for Transmission System Operators for Gas (ENTSOG), who are preparing an AS4 profile update with similar cryptography changes. More details will follow in early 2024.
We plan to feature a limited interoperability test of the new profile version, involving scenarios like one-way push exchanges with valid signing and encryption keys. Configuration details and test scenarios will be prepared and shared in advance.
Getting ready
To be part of this event, we encourage interested parties to prepare their (proof of concept) implementations in line with our revised 2.0 draft specifications, due to be released at the end of January 2024.
We will share the link to the revised specifications as soon as they are available.
This preparation will give all participants a head start in adopting the updated AS4 profile.
Save the date!
While the exact date in June 2024 is yet to be announced, we invite you to plan your implementations come February 2024. This event is not only a chance to test and validate your solutions but also a platform to connect with peers.
You can express your interest to participate by writing to us at EC-DIGITAL-BUILDING-BLOCKS@ec.europa.eu.
Stay tuned for more details and let us make this event a milestone in the journey of eDelivery!
The eDelivery Building Block
eDelivery is a building block that provides technical specifications and standards, installable software, and ancillary services to allow projects to create a network of nodes for secure digital data exchange.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on eDelivery services by checking the Building Block's X and web page. For more information, do not hesitate to register for personalised news or contact us via our portal or by e-mail: EC-EDELIVERY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu.