What is Definition FTP?
FTP is an abbreviation for “file transfer protocol”. The name says it all: this technology was specially created to transmit data quickly between the local computer and the server. A protocol that transfers data from one computer to another. As a rule, this is referred to as an FTP client. Such a program allows you to access the server of a website and delete, update or edit its files. This requires a user name and password so that not just anyone can access the server.
FTP Client
The FTP client is mainly used to update websites and to realize uploads. Various administrative tasks can also be solved using the software.
Meaning of FTP
Translated, FTP means “file transfer procedure”. FTP makes it possible to exchange data between different computers. The protocol works independently of the operating systems and connection paths used.
Use of FTP
The corresponding data (files for a website) are uploaded and downloaded to an FTP server. In addition to data transfer, directories can also be displayed, renamed, deleted or access rights can be set via FTP.
FTP software (FTP client) is generally used for uploads, downloads and administration via FTP. The FTP client is installed on your own computer. Different versions are available online as free open source solutions.
FTP and its encrypted counterpart SFTP are methods for fast file transfer. Especially for larger files such as images, music or videos, file upload via FTP is much shorter and less time-consuming. With several FTP accesses, it is possible to grant different access rights to different users. An FTP program such as the free FileZilla offers a clear user interface for managing your own files on the server.
There is also the option of accessing the FTP server via the browser. Some web hosting providers also offer webFTP. This allows access to the web space immediately after logging in to the personal customer area in order to upload files or perform other file operations such as creating new folders.
What data can be exchanged?
FTP sets virtually no limits to data exchange, all file formats can be transferred without any problems. Difficulties can arise if, for example, there are restrictions on the target computer and it does not accept a certain file extension.
What is the difference between FTP client and FTP server?
The FTP client is a device such as your computer, smartphone or tablet that wants to upload or download files. From a technical point of view, an FTP server is a web server that has FTP access and stores data. The server serves the client.
The software required to help manage the FTP server is also often called an FTP server. You can set up your FTP server with an FTP program.