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Home / Glossary / FTP
Glossary · Protocol

FTP

File Transfer Protocol

In plain language

An old way of moving files between computers over the internet, with no encryption.

The metaphor

Like sending documents by postcard: anyone handling it along the route can read the contents.

Going deeper

How it works

  • Passwords and files travel in plain view.
  • It is still used by older equipment and web hosts.
  • SFTP and cloud sharing links are safe replacements.
  • If a device insists on it, keep it off the internet.
In practice
  • An old scanner uploads files this way.
  • A web agency moves site files to a host.
  • A firm replaces it with a shared link.

A question owners ask

Should I stop using it?

Yes, wherever you can. Use SFTP or a secure link.

Related terms
AHAuthentication HeaderARPAddress Resolution ProtocolBGPBorder Gateway ProtocolCCMPCounter Mode/CBC-MAC ProtocolCHAPChallenge Handshake Authentication ProtocolCRCCyclical Redundancy CheckEAPExtensible Authentication ProtocolESPEncapsulated Security Payload

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