What is FTP?
FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It is a simple way for computers to send and receive files over the internet or a local network, using a set of rules that both the sending and receiving computers understand.
Let's break it down
- File: any document, picture, video, or program stored on a computer.
- Transfer: moving that file from one place to another.
- Protocol: a shared set of instructions that tell computers how to talk to each other.
- FTP: the name of the specific set of instructions used for moving files.
Why does it matter?
Knowing about FTP lets you share large or many files quickly without needing special software, and it helps you understand how many web services and business systems move data behind the scenes.
Where is it used?
- Uploading website files from a developer’s computer to a web server.
- Backing up large databases or media archives to a remote storage server.
- Exchanging design assets between a marketing team and a printing company.
- Updating firmware or software on networked devices like routers or digital signage.
Good things about it
- Works with almost every operating system.
- Handles large files and batch transfers efficiently.
- Can be automated with scripts for regular uploads or downloads.
- Supports both anonymous (no login) and authenticated access.
- Simple, well-documented, and widely supported by many tools.
Not-so-good things
- Sends usernames and passwords in plain text unless secured with FTPS or SFTP.
- Can be slower than newer protocols that compress data during transfer.
- Firewall and NAT configurations can make connections tricky.
- Lacks built-in file versioning or collaboration features found in modern cloud services.