Definition
FTP is a method of transferring files from one host to another over the Internet. FTP is commonly used to download files from a Web site, or to upload files to a server. For example, uploading a Web page file to your hosting account. FTP is also used for transferring a large number of files at once. For example, all the files that make up an entire Web site. FTP is can also be used for backing up your Web site or hosting account data. In 2011, FTP technology turned 40 years old, making it a dinosaur in the digital world. FTP is not a secure protocol, especially by today's heavily regulated standards of security and compliance.
FTP
Simple Cloud Hosting Control Panel does not configure your server for FTP. We recommend using SSH/SFTP.
Since FTP is not able to encrypt its traffic, its key weakness is that all data is fully exposed. Data is transmitted in simple text, allowing anyone to unleash packet capture (sniffing) that can intercept your data. This sniffing uncovers text-based usernames, passwords and data commands, and with your files just sitting out on an unsecure server, almost anyone can access and share your data.
SFTP
SFTP functions similarly to FTP, but with SFTP, files are encrypted as they are being transmitted, and are more secure. This form of file transfer uses Secure Shell (SSH) to make the exchange, which provides built-in encryption for both data and commands.
SFTP client programs
There are a variety of SFTP client programs both open source and commercial that can be used to connect with your FTP account and transfer files between your local computer drive and your domain.
1. CoreFTP LE
CoreFTP is a commercial product that has both Pro and Free version. The free version pretty much has every feature that you would need for your typical SFTP file transfer needs.
- Drag and drop support.
- You can stop and resume the file transfer.
- File transfer bandwidth can be controlled
- command line mode is available
2. Filezilla
FileZilla is a GUI tool that supports FTP, FTPS and SFTP. Following are some of the features.
- It is cross platform and works on Windows, Linux and Mac OS.
- Filezilla is open source.
- Supports IPv6.
- You can drag and drop files.
- Edit remote files directly from Filezilla.
- Compare local and remote directory contents.
3. BitKinex
BitKinex is a freeware SFTP Clienit. Following are some of the features.
- Uses multipart and multithreaded file transfer for speed.
- Support FTP, FTPS, SFTP, HTTP, HTTPS and WebDAV protocols.
- Supports server-to-server file transfer.
- Command line interface to transfer files
