FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is a standard network protocol used for transferring files between a client and a server on a computer network, typically the internet. It provides a simple and efficient method for uploading, downloading, and managing files on remote servers.
FTP operates on a client-server model, where the client initiates a connection to the server and requests file transfer operations. Users authenticate themselves with a username and password to access their designated directories on the server.
FTP clients, such as FileZilla, Cyberduck, or WinSCP, provide graphical interfaces for users to interact with FTP servers, allowing them to navigate directories, transfer files, and perform various file management tasks.
While FTP is widely used for file transfer, it has some security vulnerabilities, such as transmitting data in plaintext, which makes it susceptible to interception or eavesdropping. Secure alternatives such as SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) and FTPS (FTP Secure) encrypt data transmissions to provide enhanced security during file transfers.