SFTP, or SSH File Transfer Protocol, is a network protocol part of the SSH Protocol Suite, which provides a secure method for transferring files between a local and a remote computer. Unlike its predecessor FTP, which transmits data in clear text, SFTP encrypts the session, preventing unauthorized disclosure and tampering of data during transmission. This protocol operates over a secure channel, offering features such as file upload, download, deletion, and directory listings, along with more advanced functions like resuming interrupted transfers, directory manipulation, and file permission changes.
SFTP is widely used in various applications and services where data security is a concern, including automated file transfers in financial services, healthcare data exchange, and secure file sharing in corporate environments. By leveraging the underlying SSH protocol for security, SFTP ensures that data transfers are not only efficient but also protected against eavesdropping and cyber threats, making it a preferred choice for secure file transfer requirements.
