If you’ve ever managed a website or a server, you've probably had to move files from your computer to the remote machine. It’s a fundamental task, and for decades, two acronyms have dominated that conversation: FTP and SFTP. They sound almost identical, and both are used for transferring files, so what’s the big deal?
As it turns out, the difference between them is significant, especially when it comes to security. Let's break down what each protocol is, how they differ, and which one you should be using for your projects.
What is FTP?
FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It's one of the oldest protocols still in use on the internet, created back when the web was a much smaller and more trusting place. It operates on a client-server model; you use an FTP client on your computer to connect to an FTP server to upload or download files.
FTP uses two separate channels to function: a command channel to send instructions (like "get this file") and a data channel to transfer the actual file content. While this system works, it has one massive, glaring flaw in the context of the modern internet: it’s completely insecure. All data, including your username, your password, and your files, is sent in plain text. Anyone snooping on the network can easily intercept and read everything.
What is SFTP?
SFTP stands for SSH File Transfer Protocol. While it has "FTP" in its name, it’s not just a secure version of FTP. It’s a completely different protocol that was designed from the ground up to operate over a secure channel. Specifically, it runs as a subsystem of SSH, or Secure Shell, the same encrypted protocol you use to log in to a server’s command line securely.
Because SFTP uses an SSH tunnel, your entire session is encrypted. Your login credentials, the commands you issue, and the files you transfer are all protected from eavesdroppers. This prevents a wide range of attacks and keeps your sensitive data safe.
Key differences you should know
While the core purpose is the same, the way FTP and SFTP achieve it is very different.
Security
This is the most important distinction. FTP is a plain-text protocol, offering zero encryption. SFTP is encrypted from start to finish. Sending your credentials over FTP is like shouting your password across a crowded room, while using SFTP is like whispering it directly into the server's ear in a secret language.
Connection
FTP's two-channel system (one for commands, one for data) can sometimes be a headache for firewalls, which might block the data channel's port. SFTP uses a single, stable connection (usually on port 22) for all communication, making it much more reliable and easier to manage through a firewall.
Protocol Foundation
As we mentioned, SFTP isn't just FTP with security sprinkled on top. It's an entirely separate protocol built as part of the SSH suite. This means if you have SSH access to a server, you almost always have SFTP access as well.
How to connect using SFTP
Switching from FTP to SFTP is simple, and you can do it whether you prefer a graphical interface or the command line.
Using a GUI client
Most modern file transfer clients, like FileZilla or Cyberduck, fully support SFTP. The process is nearly identical to connecting with FTP:
- Open your client and go to the site manager or new connection screen.
- Instead of selecting "FTP" as the protocol, choose "SFTP - SSH File Transfer Protocol".
- Enter your server’s IP address or hostname, your username, and your password.
- The port for SFTP is typically 22, which is the default SSH port.
- Connect. You can now drag and drop files just like you would with FTP, but with the peace of mind that your connection is secure.
Using the command line
If you're comfortable with the terminal, connecting via SFTP is just one command away on Linux and macOS.
Open your terminal and type:
sftp username@your_server_ip
After you enter your password, you'll be in an SFTP session. You can use commands like put filename.zip to upload a file or get remote-file.zip to download one.
So, which one should you use?
The answer is clear: you should almost always use SFTP.
In today's environment, security isn't optional. There's virtually no good reason to use an insecure protocol like FTP when a secure, reliable, and readily available alternative exists. The only exception might be for accessing very old, legacy systems that don't support SFTP or for downloading publicly available, non-sensitive files from an anonymous FTP server. For any task that involves your own servers and credentials, SFTP is the only right choice.
Frequently asked questions about FTP and SFTP
Is FTPS the same as SFTP?
No, they're different. FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS) is a security extension for the original FTP protocol. It wraps the insecure FTP communication in an encryption layer. SFTP, on the other hand, is a completely different protocol built on top of SSH. While both are secure, SFTP is generally considered more modern and firewall-friendly due to its use of a single port.
What port does SFTP use?
SFTP typically uses port 22, the standard port for all SSH traffic. FTP uses port 21 for commands and a separate, dynamic port for data transfers.
Can I use my FTP client for SFTP?
Most modern FTP clients are actually multi-protocol file transfer clients that support SFTP. You just need to make sure you select "SFTP" from the protocol dropdown when setting up your connection.
Why is FTP still used?
Its continued use is largely due to legacy systems that haven't been updated and some public file archives where the data is not sensitive. However, its use is strongly discouraged for any new development or for transferring private information.
Conclusion
For developers, system administrators, and anyone managing a server, knowing how to transfer files securely is essential. While FTP laid the groundwork decades ago, its lack of security makes it unsuitable for modern use. SFTP provides the encryption and reliability needed to keep your data safe.
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