SSH File Transfer Protocol
SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP)
The SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is a secure file transfer protocol that provides file access, file transfer, and file management functionalities over a secure data stream. SFTP is an extension of the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol and typically operates on port 22.
Operation
SFTP allows users to securely transfer files between a client and server using the SSH protocol. It provides commands to navigate directories, list files, upload and download files, and perform other file operations.
Security
SFTP encrypts both the data and control channels, providing confidentiality and integrity during file transfer. It also supports various authentication methods, including password authentication and public-key authentication.
Advantages
- SFTP provides strong encryption and secure authentication mechanisms, making it resistant to eavesdropping and data tampering.
- It is widely supported by most SSH servers and clients.
Disadvantages
- SFTP can be slower than non-encrypted protocols due to the overhead of encryption and decryption.
- Some legacy systems or devices may not support SFTP.
Alternatives
Alternative secure file transfer protocols include FTP Secure (FTPS), which adds encryption to the FTP protocol, and HTTP Secure (HTTPS), which uses the HTTP protocol over a secure SSL/TLS connection for file transfer.
