What is FTP: FTP Explained for Beginners

The FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used to communicate and transfer files between computers on a network TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) also known as the Internet. Users, who have been granted access, can receive and transfer files on the File Transfer Protocol server (also known as an FTP host/site).

The they use the FTP protocol to make changes to a website. Given the large number of files to be handled, it is safer and more practical to manage them this way.

In this article, we will learn all the basics about what FTP is and how to use the protocol.

How does FTP work?

The FTP connection needs two parties to be established on the network, a client and a server. Users need to provide credentials to the server to gain authorization. To access your files, some public servers may not require credentials. This practice is common in what is called anonymous FTP.

There are two different communication channels while the connection is established. The first is called the command channel and is where the instruction and response are initiated. The other is called the data channel, where data distribution occurs.

To obtain or transfer a file, an authorized user will use the protocol to request the generation of changes to the server. In response, the server will grant access. This session is known as active connection mode.

Active mode can cause problems when a firewall protects the user’s machine. The firewall does not usually allow any unauthorized session from an external party.

If that problem occurs, passive mode is used. Here the user sets both the command and data channels and asks the server to I listened instead of trying to create a connection to the user.

How to use FTP

There are three methods to establish an FTP connection. A very simple method is to use a command line FTP, from the Windows Command prompt or the Mac/Linux terminal. These are still used by programmers today to transfer files.

Second, a web browser can also be used to communicate with the FTP server. A web browser is most useful when the user wants to access large directories on the server. But it is usually slower and less reliable than using a dedicated program.

Today, the most common is to use an FTP client, especially among programmers.

Compared to the command line and web browser, this option is more free, easier to operate, and more powerful than the other methods.

In addition, we have more features when using such a client, such as the ability to transfer a large file and use the synchronization tool.

How to connect to FTP

There are many FTP clients to choose from, from free open source applications to premium options. In this article, we will use which is very popular and open source.

First we will need an FTP server, and we can set one up using our account.

1. Login to your account and go to the section FTP accounts.
2. Create a new account by entering a new username and password.
   
3. You will see the new server (Hostname) under the list of active FTP accounts.
   
   
4. In enter the hostname, username and password and press the button quick connect. You can also indicate the port number. But the .
   
   
5. The status window will tell you if you are connected to the server. You can see in the window remote site the files on the server.

conclusion

So there you have it, you can send and receive files from an FTP server. If you are a web developer, you will need to use an FTP client to access the website you are running. Also, it is easier to create and delete directories and read a large number of files on the server.

We hope that this article will help you understand what FTP is, as well as the different methods and programs used.

Betania is a copywriter with a passion for digital marketing and website creation. She writes tutorials and performs SEO analysis on ‘s Content team. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, singing or watching a good classic movie.