In 2025, Wisetech will be releasing "eAdapter Next", the updated version of the traditional eAdaptor interface as part of the Cargowise Next update.
There are several key changes to the way that Cargowise interfaces with all middleware platform including Chain.io. These include, removal of SOAP wrappers, the introduction of Certificate Based OAuth, and the ability to have multiple inbound and outbound channels.
Chain.io is fully committed to supporting both the legacy eAdaptor and eAdaptor Next for as long as you need them.
Here's some frequently asked questions that you may have.
What is eAdaptor Next?
eAdaptor Next is the upgraded version of CargoWise's integration tool, enabling more efficient and modern connectivity options for logistics software integration.
What are the key features of eAdaptor Next?
- Asynchronous REST support and elimination of SOAP-based protocols.
- Enhanced security through certificate-based authentication for both inbound and outbound connections.
- Individual client credentials for multiple clients (both inbound and outbound).
- Automatic handling of responses via unique identifiers like interchange and EDI numbers. This will allow Chain.io to reflect interchange numbers within your data tags.
- OAuth security using Azure B2C with short-lived tokens (10-minute validity).
What changes can we expect in connection setups?
Each connection will require a separate Certificate Signing Request (CSR) and Client Key with a one-year expiration. Chain.io will develop a certificate management component within the application to facilitate this process including automated certificate generation and renewal alerts.
How will outbound communications change?
Outbound XML will no longer use a SOAP wrapper. Multiple outbound endpoints will eliminate the need for splitters, streamlining the process.
Are the XML formats (XUS, XUE, Native XML, etc.) changing?
No. The formats remain the same and all Chain.io adapters will continue to operate as expected.
What do I need to do today?
Nothing. Chain.io will be developing new Connection & Host System types to support eAdaptor Next during 2025 and when they are ready for production, you'll be able to convert on your own schedule.
Is the legacy eAdaptor going away?
Eventually, but Cargowise does not have an immediate plan to sunset it or a timeline. This means that your existing connections will continue to work.
Can I run both legacy eAdaptor & eAdaptor Next at the same time?
Yes. Both technologies can run in parallel in the same Cargowise instance.
Is there an additional cost for eAdaptor Next?
Cargowise has not announced any additional charges for eAdaptor Next. Chain.io considers this technology to be a core product feature and it will not have any additional costs beyond your normal usage.
What will the migration from legacy eAdaptor to eAdaptor Next look like in Chain.io?
We are currently designing the user interface specifics, essentially eAdaptor next will be an additional type on both the New Connections and New Host System Screens. Within those screens, you'll be able to generate & manage the CSRs and keys required for the OAuth communication. This will be similar to our current AS2 feature which already has certificate management built in.
When will the new Chain.io features to support eAdaptor Next be available?
We are currently scheduling them in the product roadmap. As soon as we (and other Wisetech partners) have access to the new eAdaptor functionality in our development environment, we will be able to provide an accurate delivery date. We are fully committed to ensuring that you have the opportunity to use this new functionality as soon as possible. In the meantime, be assured that you will be able to continue to use the existing connectivity options to manage your workloads.