How does SFTP work?
When you need to secure server-to-server file transfers between yourself, your trading partners, and enterprise servers, SFTP (which stands for SSH File Transfer Protocol or Secure File Transfer Protocol) is a more secure option than FTP.
Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) works over the Secure Shell (SSH) data stream to establish a secure connection and provide organizations with a higher level of file transfer protection. This is because SFTP uses encryption algorithms to securely move data to your server and keep files unreadable during the process, and authentication prevents unauthorized file access during the operation.
While Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) doesn’t require two-factor authentication, you do have the choice to require both a user ID and password, as well as SSH keys, for a more secure connection. Creating SSH keys helps prevent imposters from connecting to the SFTP server. SSH key pairs must be generated beforehand.
Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) gives you the option to perform a wide variety of tasks for sensitive files, from removing files to resuming paused transfers. Unlike FTP over SSL/TLS (FTPS), SFTP only needs a single port number (port 22) to establish a server connection.
Related Reading:
- Which is Better: SFTP vs. FTPS?
- Which is Better: SFTP vs. MFT?
- SFTP vs. FTPS: The Key Differences
- SFTP: The Smart Way to Transfer Your Cloud Data
- Two-factor Authentication Using SSH Keys and Passwords for SFTP
- What are SFTP Servers?
- What is Enterprise SFTP Software?
- Five Secure File Transfer Alternatives to FTP
Learn More About Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP)
Like Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), FTP and FTPS are also key protocols for transferring files. However, do you know which one is the best way to secure your organization’s sensitive data during the transfer process?
