FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a standard network protocol used to transfer files from one host computer to another host over a TCP-based network, such as the Internet.

FTP is built on a client-server architecture and uses separate control and data connections between the client and the server. FTP users may authenticate themselves using sign-in protocol, normally in the form of a username and password, but can connect anonymously if the server computer is configured to allow it. For secure transmission that hides (encrypts) the username and password, and encrypts the content, FTP is often secured with SSL/TLS ("FTPS"). SSH File Transfer Protocol ("SFTP") is sometimes also used instead, but is technologically different.

FTP programs (called clients) have been created for desktop computers, mobile devices, etc., and allow the user to connect to an FTP server to download and upload files.

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