SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is a network protocol that provides secure file access, transfer, and management capabilities over SSH (Secure Shell) connections. Unlike FTP (File Transfer Protocol), which does not encrypt data by default, SFTP encrypts both commands and data transmitted between a client and server, ensuring confidentiality and data integrity during file transfers.
The SFTP protocol works by establishing a secure SSH connection between a client and a server. Once authenticated using SSH keys or passwords, the client can securely browse, upload, download, rename, and delete files on the remote server. SFTP commands and data are encrypted using SSH encryption algorithms, protecting sensitive information from interception or unauthorized access by third parties.
SFTP is used primarily for secure file transfer and management tasks where data confidentiality and integrity are critical. It is commonly employed by organizations and individuals who need to securely transfer files over networks, such as software developers deploying applications, system administrators managing servers, and businesses exchanging sensitive documents.
The default port for the SFTP protocol is port number 22, which is the standard port used by SSH for secure communication. SFTP operates over SSH connections, utilizing port 22 for establishing encrypted sessions between clients and servers. This port number may vary depending on specific configurations and firewall settings, but port 22 is the widely accepted default for SSH-based protocols like SFTP.
