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Learn About FTP
FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. FTP is a standard network protocol, used to transfer files between computers via the internet [TCP/IP]. Whether you are checking your email, visiting a web site or downloading files, you are using TCP/IP. FTP uses two different ports for data transfer. Port 21 is used for data transfer and 20 is used for creating a connection between the client and server. FTP does not take any precautions to protect information transmitted during a upload session. This session includes your username, password, and any files to be transmitted in a plain text format.
FTPS (FTP-SSL) - FTPS is an extension to standard FTP and adds security to file transfer. FTPS is split into:
- Explicit FTPS: After establishing the connection, it is required that FTP client should send a specific command to the server for establishing the SSL link. If a client does not request security, the FTPS server can either allow the client to continue insecure or refuse the connection. Default FTP Server port(21) is used.
- Implicit FTPS: In Implicit FTPS, security is automatically turned on as soon as the FTP client makes a connection to an FTP server. In this case, the FTP server defines a specific port for the client (990) to be used for secure connections.
SFTP(Secured File Transfer Protocol) – SFTP is a program that uses SSH to transfer files. It typically runs on port 22. Unlike FTP/S, SFTP does not have the concept of separate command and data channels. Instead both data and commands are transferred in specially formatted packets via a single connection.
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