File Transfer Protocol

The File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a standard network protocol used to transfer computer files from one host to another host over a TCP-based network, such as the Internet.

FTP is built on a client-server model and uses separate control and data connections between the client and the server.

FTP users may authenticate themselves using a clear-text sign-in protocol, normally in the form of a username and password, but can connect anonymously if the server is configured to allow it.

For secure transmission that protects the username and password, and encrypts the content, FTP is often secured with SSL/TLS (FTPS).

SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is sometimes also used instead, but is technologically different.

History of FTP

The first FTP client applications were command-line applications developed before operating systems had graphical user interfaces, and are still shipped with most Windows and Unix-like operating systems.

Many FTP clients and automation utilities have since been developed for desktops, servers, mobile devices, and hardware, and FTP has been incorporated into productivity applications, such as Web page editors.

See also

• Client-server model
• FTP client
• FTP server
• Server (computing)

External links

• File Transfer Protocol @ Wikipedia