What is FTP?

Using FTP to transfer large collections of documents is a great way to speed up workflow. However, this type of technology is not necessarily secure. It can be susceptible to hacking and eavesdropping.

In order to connect with an FTP server, you need to know the correct credentials. FTP servers are accessible through most web browsers. You can also use a general user interface (GUI) FTP client to initiate a connection and manipulate files on the server.

The process of transferring files with FTP is simple. It is based on two communication channels: port 20 and port 21. Both ports are used by your client and server to exchange files. Your computer will use port 20 for data transactions and port 21 for command transfers.

The first version of FTP, called RFC 114, was published on April 16, 1971. The protocol was designed for use on the ARPANET, a precursor to the internet. Initially, it was a text-based system. However, this changed with RFC 765, a specification that added capabilities such as the creation of anonymous FTP servers.

FTP is a service that can be used by web developers and IT professionals to transfer large batches of server files. It is also used for automated tasks such as transferring web templates.

You can use FTP to send hundreds of gigabytes of data at once. However, this is not encrypted, which leaves your data transfers open to eavesdropping and hackers. A banker Trojan may be able to capture data packets and read them