FTP
FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is one of the oldest and most widely used methods for transferring files between computers over a network. It operates on the TCP/IP protocol and allows users to upload, download, rename, delete, or organize files on a remote server.
How FTP Works:
- Client-Server Model: FTP relies on a client-server architecture. A user (client) connects to an FTP server to access files.
- Ports: FTP typically uses port 21 for command control and port 20 for data transfer.
- Authentication: Users can log in with a username and password, though anonymous FTP allows access without credentials.
Use Cases:
- Website Management: FTP is commonly used to upload and maintain website files on hosting servers.
- File Sharing: Teams or individuals use FTP to share large files efficiently.
- Backup and Archiving: FTP is often employed to back up important data to remote servers.
Variants of FTP:
- SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol): Adds encryption to secure file transfers, preventing unauthorized access or interception.
- FTPS (FTP Secure): An extension of FTP that uses SSL/TLS encryption for enhanced security.
Limitations:
- Security Risks: Standard FTP does not encrypt data, making it vulnerable to interception. For sensitive data, SFTP or FTPS is recommended.
- Outdated in Some Cases: While still in use, many organizations now rely on more secure and efficient methods like HTTPS or cloud-based solutions.
You can test or use FTP with clients like: