Fed Considers the Future of FedLine

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For many years Federal Reserve customers have used FedLine® software to send and receive transactions and information. Although customers have traditionally been satisfied with their FedLine connections, today's DOS-based FedLine needs to be updated to reflect newer technologies. To address this need, the Federal Reserve is developing two new FedLine platforms.

FedLine for the Windows NT® Operating System

FedLine for the Windows NT operating system is the software-based replacement for most of today's DOS-based FedLine applications. This new software design is Windows-based to enhance the usability and functionality of each application, and to provide the greatest level of security around the FedLine transactions. This software will offer familiar FedLine capabilities with greater functionality than the current FedLine software.

FedLine for the Web

FedLine for the Web, which is being piloted in many districts today, is a Web-based platform that provides even greater flexibility in managing FedLine transactions. Unlike DOS-based FedLine, the new FedLine for the Web platform will allow customers to access certain Federal Reserve applications from any Internet-connected PC with a Web browser. Many of the current FedLine services, as well as new services, will be moved to FedLine for the Web. The benefit to our customers is that we can develop and deliver these services faster than we have ever been able to with the software-based versions of FedLine.

Why Two Platforms?

In order to maintain the integrity of the nation's payments systems, one of the primary concerns the Fed has is information and transaction security. Many of the financial services provided by the Federal Reserve involve large sums of money and immediate settlement. This means that as transactions are submitted or received, they automatically and immediately are posted to the corresponding Federal Reserve account.

As many of the DOS-based FedLine applications are mission-critical and require the greatest level of security available, they will migrate directly to FedLine for the Windows NT operating system, where security is built around both software and hardware components. For now, only those applications with less stringent security requirements will migrate to FedLine for the Web. As Internet security continues to mature, other Federal Reserve applications will be available through the Web.

When Will They Be Available?

The Federal Reserve will be releasing FedLine for the Web applications as they are developed. Savings Bonds and Cash ordering and deposit notification will be available beginning in the fall of 2000. Current Web application development also includes Check products.

The Federal Reserve will begin deployment of FedLine for the Windows NT operating system in the fourth quarter of 2000, following pilot activities. Applications that will be available with the first release include: Accounting Services, ACH, Funds Transfer, Book-Entry Securities, Statistical Reporting (FR2900 and others), Check Return Notifications, Savings Bonds, and Treasury Tax & Loan.

With the implementation of these two new FedLine platforms, the Federal Reserve will soon begin working with each customer to define an appropriate conversion strategy.

Contact your local account executive or your FedLine customer support area for additional information.