FTP vs SFTP and what is best to use?
Today we're discussing FTP versus SFTP. Both protocols will get data from one place to another, but which one is right for my business needs? We're here to simplify your decision-making process an easier headache.First, we'll look at FTP and SFTP to find out what the differences are. Then a quick review of what each protocol is best for.
First FTP known as File Transfer Protocol.
Is the standard for transferring files between a client and a server on a computer network.
In short, FTP opens a control channel and a data channel to transfer data between two computers over an Internet connection.
What about SFTP? SFTP is known as the SSH or Secure Shell File Transfer Protocol. SFTP is functionally similar to FTP, but is a separate protocol entirely.
SFTP requires authentication by the server. Your data transfer takes place over a secure SSH channel.
So which protocol is best for your use?
Let's go over some reasons to use FTP.
FTP is best for uploading and downloading extremely large files. FTP is the fastest way to get your files transferred from 1 remote location to another.
FTP is user friendly, ideal for daily business operations requiring file transfers between multiple stakeholders.
FTP is ideal for backup of large amounts of business data. Web developers use FTP to move their code to the server hosting the website they're working on.
And why you might use SFTP. SFTP is idea for sensitive data that requires encryption. Use SFTP for compliance with federal regulations.
Businesses that need firewall friendly file transfer choose SFTP. SFTP is popular on Linux and Unix.
SFTP delivers more detailed metadata with your files. Consider your needs and choose FTP or SFTP. Then the process to get going is simple.
First you select the FTP client you want to use. Many clients support both FTP and SFTP. Then download and install the client software.
Cyberduck Installation:
Cyberduck is free software, but it still costs money to write, support, and distribute it. Here are the installation steps for windows desktop:
Select the appropriate protocol you want to use, enter the server address, username and password. Connect to the FTP server and transfer files.
Comparison:
Here is a brief comparison between the two:
FeatureFTP(File Transfer Protocol)SFTP(Secure File Transfer Protocol)
SecurityLesssecure as it transfers data in plain text format.Moresecure as it encrypts data during transmission.
AuthenticationRelieson username and password for authentication.Utilizespublic-key cryptography for authentication.
PortUsesport 21 for control connection and port 20 for data connection.Usesport 22 for both control and data connections.
DataEncryptionDoesnot provide inherent encryption.Encryptsdata using SSH (Secure Shell) protocol.
FirewallMayface issues with firewalls and NAT (Network Address Translation) due tomultiple connections.Easilytraverses firewalls and NAT as it uses a single secure connection.
FileAccessLimitedfile access controls and permissions.Offersrobust file access controls and permissions, similar to SSH.
ConnectionStabilityProneto connection drops and interruptions.Morestable connections due to the underlying SSH protocol.
BR,Tayyab Rehman
thank you for this Thanks for your sharing. wow, this is a useful information.
Thanks for this :D very informative article. FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Simple and widely supported but lacks encryption and data security. Suitable for non-sensitive data transfers within a trusted network.
SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol): Secure and encrypted, ideal for transferring sensitive or confidential data over the internet. Preferred for data protection and security. I preferred to use STFP Thank you very much for the information ... :handshake
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