SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol)

SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is a secure file transfer protocol that operates over the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol. Unlike SCP, which is primarily used for simple file copying, SFTP provides a more robust set of file management capabilities, including the ability to navigate directories, list files, and manage permissions.

Key Features

• Secure Transfer: Encrypts all data and commands to ensure confidentiality and integrity.
• Interactive File Management: Allows users to perform a wide range of file operations, such as uploading, downloading, renaming, and deleting files.
• Resume Capability: Supports resuming interrupted file transfers.
• Directory Listings: Enables listing of files and directories on the remote server.

Basic Usage

To use SFTP, you typically start an SFTP session with a remote server:

bash


sftp username@remotehost

Once connected, you can use various commands within the SFTP prompt. Here are some common commands:

Common Commands

1. Upload a file:

   bash
   
   
   put localfile.txt

2. Download a file:

   bash
   
   
   get remotefile.txt

3. List files in the current remote directory:

   bash
   
   
   ls

4. Change remote directory:

   bash
   
   
   cd /path/to/directory

5. Create a directory:

   bash
   
   
   mkdir new_directory

6. Delete a file:

   bash
   
   
   rm file_to_delete.txt

7. Exit the SFTP session:

   bash
   
   
   exit

Security

SFTP is built on SSH, it benefits from the strong security features of SSH, including encrypted connections and secure authentication methods (like passwords and public keys).