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Data Landing Portal (DLP) MESH set up guide

How to download Data Landing Portal (DLP) data using MESH. 

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The Data Landing Portal (DLP) seeks to replace current local email data transfers between providers (data senders) and commissioners (data recipients) and support standardisation by using a secure, centrally managed system. DLP enables data recipients to set up data specifications, against which incoming data from providers is validated

Downloading data transfers using DLP

Data recipients can download data transfers using the download functionality within DLP or by setting up automated transfers. For automated transfers NHS Digital supports Messaging Exchange for Social Care and Health (MESH).

MESH

MESH is the main messaging service used across health and social care. It is the replacement for the preceding Data Transfer Service (DTS) and works on the Spine infrastructure. MESH is used to transfer electronic messages directly from one application to another, enabling different organisations to communicate securely.

MESH can be accessed using the MESH client, or through systems that have been integrated using the Application Programming Interface (API). Further information regarding implementing MESH using an API is available on the MESH API webpages. In most cases systems suppliers or IT administrators will handle the set-up of MESH for each organisation, and users should contact their IT department with any further questions.

How to set up MESH client to receive data transfers

Step 1 – Request a MESH mailbox

The first step in setting up the MESH client is to apply for a MESH mailbox. This is done by downloading and completing the MESH application form. If your organisation already has a MESH mailbox set up, please proceed to Step 2.

Before you start

To complete this form you will need to know:

  • your organisation name and address
  • your organisation data service (ODS) code
  • the contact details of a nominated representative within your organisation
  • the name of the clinical system supplier (please answer this question as DSP data landing portal) 
  • the contact details for the clinical system supplier (please answer this question with [email protected]  and write for the attention of the DLP service management team) 
  • the type of data you'll be sending and receiving via MESH (please answer this question with DSP_extract)
  • a summary of the requirement (please answer this question with "this is an existing workflow for recipient of local data submitted through the DSP data landing portal)
  • the approximate file size of the data you'll be sending
  • message format (please answer this question as CSV)

If you're requesting a MESH UI mailbox then you'll also need to give the contact details and unique user identity number (UUID) of the administrator responsible for adding new users to the mailbox.

Search for your ODS code (N3/HSCN connection required).

Complete all required fields.

The form will be sent to our national service desk for processing.

Step 2 – Install MESH client

To install the MESH client,  first read the MESH installation pack and the MESH client installation guidance.  This guidance explains the process for installation, including pre-requisite checks, and guidance for different operating systems (Windows and Linux).  You may also find it useful to refer to the MESH client user guide for more information or contact the National Service Desk if you experience any issues with MESH installation.

 

Step 3 – Client certificate

Importantly, within the MESH client installation guide you will find information on applying for the client (Keystore) certificate. The certificate is needed for authentication purposes and is essential for you to successfully complete your installation. Due to security reasons, we cannot apply for one on your behalf. The guide called how to use the MESH certificate enrolment tool will take you through the process to be followed.

Step 4 – Send confirmation

Having successfully set up a MESH mailbox with MESH Client or set up an API, please send confirmation, including the Organisation Data Service (ODS) code and MESH mailbox ID for your organisation, to the Service Management team via the National Service Desk e-mail address, specifying that you want to set up MESH to receive DLP submissions. The DLP team will then complete the configuration changes to enable you to receive automated DLP data transfers via MESH.

Learn more about about receiving and sending files through MESH. 

Useful resources

ARTICLE

MESH guidance hub

View our selection of MESH and MOLES technical documentation. These guides will help you install and use your MESH client, manage your advanced settings and identify recipient mailboxes using the endpoint lookup service.
ARTICLE

Message Exchange for Social Care and Health: client user guide

​​The Message Exchange for Social Care and Health (MESH) is the main secure large file transfer service used across health and social care organisations. This guide explains how to use the MESH client.

Contact details

National Service Desk 0300 303 5035 or [email protected]

To be added to the distribution list for regular updates to service suppliers and users, email [email protected]. 

Last edited: 1 March 2023 5:22 pm