Connecting via FTP
Published
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a network protocol used for transferring files, commonly used for distributing software and accessing remote hosts. With FTP, you can connect to servers, browse their directories, and download or upload files to and from the server. Access via FTP is achieved through special programs known as FTP clients, which are often integrated into file managers.
FTP is not tied to the IP address of the devices connecting to the storage but requires authentication with a username and password. This makes connecting to network storage via FTP convenient for simultaneous use by multiple devices.
Limitations:
- FTP data transfer is not encrypted, making it vulnerable to data interception and "man-in-the-middle" (MITM) attacks. FTP transmits logins and passwords in unencrypted form, which can be insecure.
- FTP is not optimized for handling large volumes of data or high load, which can result in decreased performance when transferring large files or with a large number of simultaneous connections.
- Limited capabilities for managing files and directories. FTP is primarily designed for file transfer, not for sharing and managing files.
- Limited compatibility with modern network and file systems. FTP is mainly used for file transfer and does not integrate with file systems at the OS kernel level.
Recommendations for Use:
- Use FTP for tasks that do not require high security, such as distributing public files or software.
- Avoid using FTP for transferring confidential data, especially without additional security measures.
- For more complex tasks requiring high performance, security, and integration with file systems, consider using NFS, CIFS, or iSCSI protocols.