The SwiftNet Link (SNL) software is always required for the Swift Alliance Gateway to operate.

SwiftNet Link (SNL) is the mandatory network interface software that enables connectivity to the SWIFTNet network, providing transport, security, and service management functionalities. The Swift Alliance Gateway (SAG) is a communication interface that consolidates message flows and relies on SNL to connect to SWIFTNet. According to SWIFT documentation, SAG is built on top of SNL, making SNL a prerequisite for SAG operation. This dependency is consistent across on-premises and cloud-based deployments (e.g., Alliance Connect Virtual), where SNL ensures secure communication over the SWIFT Secure IP Network (SIPN). The CSCF Control "1.1 SWIFT Environment Protection" underscores the need for secure connectivity components like SNL. There are no documented scenarios where SAG can operate without SNL, confirming the statement is true.

References to SWIFT Customer Security Programme Documents:

•SWIFT Customer Security Controls Framework (CSCF) v2024: Control 1.1 mandates secure connectivity components like SNL.

•SWIFT Alliance Gateway Documentation: SAG requires SNL for SWIFTNet connectivity.

•SWIFTNet Link Documentation: SNL is the mandatory interface for all SWIFTNet communications.

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