FTP stands for “File Transfer Protocol”.
You might be hearing the term for the first time, but you have been using it for decades. Not ringing a bell? Let us explain.
FTP is a standard internet protocol that’s used to transfer files between different computers. It’s one of the oldest internet protocols out there, and it’s not going to be replaced anytime soon.
But how, exactly, does FTP work? Why is it so important? And why would you ever need your own FTP server? Well, that’s what we’re going to answer today.
Let’s dive in.
What is FTP?
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is an internet communication method that’s used to send files from one computer to another, from a computer to a server, or from a server to a computer.
Whenever you download a game, a movie, or a song from the internet, it’s delivered to your computer or smartphone using FTP.
How does FTP work?
File Transfer Protocol works through two separate connections. The first one is a control channel, and the second one is a data channel. The control channel is responsible for building a streamlined connection between the two devices that are sharing the files. The data channel, on the other hand, is responsible for transferring the files between the two computers.
If you have your own FTP server, you will need to enter a username and passcode to access it. That’s kind of like how you log into your PC with a username and password. The only difference is, the FTP server is a remote computer that you’re accessing through the network.
Why would you need an FTP server?
The answer to this question massively depends on your use case.
If you’re someone who actively has to send files to others or receive files from others, an FTP server might come in handy for you.
Just like how you organize your files on a PC or Mac, you can organize your files on an FTP server, and also gives their remote access to other people so they can download them as well. An FTP server is also great in the fact that your files are protected in the cloud and you never have to worry about losing them.
You can set specified permissions for each file, limiting who can access it.
Furthermore, if you’re planning to build a website that allows the users to download files, like movies or songs, then you surely need an FTP server — no questions.
If you have made up your mind to get an FTP server and need someone to set it up for you, Zomro has got you covered!
Zomro can hook you up with high-speed FTP storage solutions at market-competitive prices. Interested? Check out the plans here.