What is FTP?
FTP stands for "File Transfer Protocol" and is a method for transferring files online. Within the internet and computing, there are many other protocols like these, each serving their own purpose. When you access a website in your browser, for example, you are using the HTTP protocol.
IMAP and POP, for example, are protocols used by email clients to send and receive emails.
FTP is one of the oldest protocols still in use today. An FTP server enables you as a user to access folders and files on a web server. This is especially useful when building websites and needing to edit the files presented to users when they access the domain associated with the web server. If you are simply an ordinary internet user, you will likely never need to use FTP.
How do you use FTP?
How do you use FTP? You do so by installing an FTP client on your machine. One of the most well-known and popular options on the market is Filezilla. After installing your FTP client, you can connect to your web server via FTP and manage/edit the files on it from there.
What is an FTP server?
An FTP server is a machine/computer that has an FTP address and is designed to receive an FTP connection from another machine.
What is an FTP client?
An FTP client is, as mentioned earlier, a piece of software that makes it possible to establish a connection to an FTP server, and subsequently transfer and edit files, etc. on a web server.
Modern security challenges and alternatives to FTP
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) has been used for decades for file transfer, but in 2024 this protocol is no longer fit for purpose due to significant security issues. Here is what you need to know about the security risks of FTP and the secure alternatives that should be used instead.
FTP transfers data in plain text, making it easy for hackers to intercept usernames, passwords, and files in transit. Today, secure alternatives such as SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) and FTPS (FTP Secure) are essential, as they encrypt data and protect against unauthorised access. Modern web browsers are also removing support for FTP due to these security concerns, making it even more important to switch to more secure solutions.
Are you still using FTP to transfer files online? It may be time to upgrade to more secure alternatives such as SFTP or FTPS. We can help you switch to a more secure protocol that protects your data. Fill in the form below, or call us on 30 12 42 72 for a no-obligation chat about how we can improve your file transfer security.
