What is FTP also known as?

Asked by: Dr. Letitia Hickle  |  Last update: March 1, 2026
Score: 4.3/5 (61 votes)

FTP is also known as File Transfer Protocol, a standard network protocol for moving files between computers on a network, often called an FTP site, FTP host, or FTP server, using a client-server model for uploading, downloading, and managing files. For more secure transfers, it's often enhanced as FTPS (using SSL/TLS) or replaced by SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol).

What is the other name for FTP?

The acronym stands for "File Transfer Protocol". It usually runs over TCP port 21. SFTP - another, completely different file transfer protocol that has nothing to do with FTP. SFTP runs over an SSH session, usually on TCP port 22.

What is FTP in simple words?

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

What are the three types of FTP?

How many types of FTP are there? FTP types and variations.

  • FTP. Plain, unencrypted FTP that defaults over port 21. Most web browsers support basic FTP.
  • FTPS. Implicit SSL/TLS encrypted FTP that works just like HTTPS. Security is enabled with SSL as soon as the connection starts. ...
  • FTPES. Explicit FTP over SSL/TLS.

Are FTP and TCP the same?

The Difference Between FTP and TCP

FTP is a file transfer protocol, which means it is used to transfer files between a client and a server, whereas TCP is a communication protocol used to exchange data between networks.

What is FTP? And how does it work? Explained for beginners

20 related questions found

Why is FTP no longer used?

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is less used now primarily because it's inherently insecure, transmitting data, including passwords, in plain text, making it highly vulnerable to interception and hacking, a major risk in today's data-sensitive world. It also lacks modern features like strong encryption, auditing, and efficient handling of large files, leading businesses to switch to more secure and robust alternatives like SFTP, FTPS, or cloud-based solutions for better security, compliance, and performance. 

Is FTP TCP or UDP?

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) uses TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), not UDP, for both its control and data connections to ensure reliable, ordered, and error-checked file transfers, establishing a connection before sending data. While UDP offers speed, FTP's reliance on TCP's connection-oriented nature guarantees that files arrive intact, making it suitable for critical data movement. 

What is used instead of FTP?

1. SFTP. SFTP, which is short for SSH File Transfer Protocol, is a secure alternative to FTP that's built on top of the SSH protocol.

How do I connect to an FTP server?

How can I connect to an FTP server with an IP address and port?

  1. Open your FTP client.
  2. Enter the server's IP address (e.g., 192.168. 1.100) and port number (usually 21 for FTP or 22 for SFTP).
  3. Enter your username and password, then connect.

Is FTP a layer 7 protocol?

Layer 7, the Application Layer, is the interface that provides services to end-user applications like web browsers, email clients, and file transfer programs. It handles the format and content of data exchange for protocols like HTTP, FTP, and SMTP, making it the layer where application-specific data resides.

Is Google Drive an FTP server?

Despite the fact that Google Drive doesn't offer direct integration with FTP, third-party tools like CloudMounter with FTP client functionality allow users to connect their Google Drive account and migrate files back and forth.

Where is FTP commonly used?

FTP is a standard network protocol used for the transfer of computer files between a client and server on a computer network. It's one of the oldest and most reliable methods to move files across the internet.

Can FTP work without internet?

Yes, you can. FTP is a great way to transfer large files because it's reliable and efficient.

What does FTP slang mean?

In slang, FTP has several meanings, most commonly "For The People," used to show support for a cause or community (like sports fans), but it can also mean "Free To Play" in gaming, "For The Payne," or sometimes an offensive slur, depending heavily on context. It's crucial to look at where it's used (e.g., sports, gaming, streetwear) to understand the intended slang meaning, as the technical term is for File Transfer Protocol.
 

What is the best FTP?

10 Best FTP Clients

  • FileZilla(Windows, macOS, Linux) ...
  • WinSCP(Windows) ...
  • Cyberduck(Windows, macOS) ...
  • Transmit(macOS) ...
  • CuteFTP(Windows, macOS) ...
  • FlashFXP(Windows) ...
  • SmartFTP(Windows) ...
  • Core FTP(Windows)

Is FTP the same as SFTP?

What are FTP and SFTP? FTP is the traditional file transfer protocol. It's a basic way of using the Internet to share files. SFTP (or Secure File Transfer Protocol) is an alternative to FTP that also allows you to transfer files, but adds a layer of security to the process.

Why won't my PC connect to the FTP server?

If your computer cannot connect to that server, then either your FTP software is not working correctly, or something on your computer (probably a firewall or other security software) is blocking all FTP connections. You may want to try using other FTP software such as the free FileZilla.

Is FTP still used today?

FTP is still a functional technology, but it sorely lacks the security and other capabilities that are required by most organizations. There are many reasons for FTP replacement and why FTP is no longer used, including the following. FTP is slow and inefficient compared to other file transfer options.

Is there a free FTP server?

Yes, there are many free FTP server options, with popular choices like FileZilla Server (open-source for Windows) and Linux-native solutions like ProFTPd and vsFTPd, plus built-in options in Windows (IIS) and even some cloud-based free tiers for basic use, allowing file sharing without cost. 

Why is FTP outdated?

Security Risks

It lacks end-to-end encryption and authentication mechanisms that modern protocols like AS2 offer. This makes FTP more vulnerable to cyber threats, data breaches, and unauthorized access, putting sensitive business transactions at risk.

How do I use my PC as an FTP server?

Navigate to Start > Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager. Once the IIS console is open, expand the local server. Right-click on Sites, and click on Add FTP Site. In the Binding and SSL Settings window, type the IP address of the server.

Is FTP only TCP?

FTP is a TCP based service exclusively. There is no UDP component to FTP. FTP is an unusual service in that it utilizes two ports, a 'data' port and a 'command' port (also known as the control port). Traditionally these are port 21 for the command port and port 20 for the data port.

Which port number is FTP?

What Ports Are Used for FTP Connections? The FTP port that you generally need to know about to make a standard, unencrypted, FTP connection is port 21.

Can I transfer files directly between computers?

Direct cable transfer

You can use a special USB transfer cable to directly connect two computers and transfer files. This method is often faster than using an external drive, especially if both PCs have USB 3.0 ports.

What is an example of an FTP site?

Here's an example of what this address may look like: “ftp.examplecompany.net”. Sometimes, the server address will be given as a numeric address, like “12.345. 678.90”. Depending on the type of FTP server you use and the level of security that is needed, you may have to input a username and password.