FTP facts for kids

FTP, which stands for File Transfer Protocol, is like a special language that computers use to send files back and forth over a network. Think of it as a super-fast delivery service for digital files! This network is usually the Internet or a smaller local network, like the one at your school or home.

FTP lets you access files stored on another computer. It works using a "Client-Server" setup. Imagine a big library (the server) that holds all the books (files) and keeps track of who can access them. Then there's you (the client), who wants to read or borrow a book. You use special software, called an FTP client, to connect to the library's server.

Once you're connected and the server knows who you are (this is called authentication), you can do lots of things. You can:

• Upload files: Send files from your computer to the server.
• Download files: Get files from the server and put them on your computer.
• Manage files: Change the names of files, delete files, or even change who can see or use them on the server.

Most modern computer operating systems already understand FTP. This means almost any computer connected to the internet can share files with another computer, no matter what kind of operating system they use, as long as they allow FTP connections. There are many free programs you can use for FTP, both for servers and clients.

You might even see FTP connections on cell phones when you're trying to send or receive data from a nearby computer.

How FTP Works (Modes)

FTP can work in two main ways: active mode or passive mode. These modes decide how the actual file transfer connection is made.

In both modes, your computer (the client) first connects to the FTP server on a special port (like a specific door) to send commands.

• In active mode, your computer tells the server which "door" (port) it's listening on for the file transfer. Then, the server connects back to your computer through that door to send or receive the file.
• In passive mode, your computer asks the server for a "door" (port) number. The server gives your computer a number, and then your computer connects to that specific door on the server to transfer the file. This mode is often used when your computer is behind a firewall, which is like a security guard that blocks incoming connections.

Keeping Files Safe (Encryption)

When you transfer files, it's important to keep them safe from prying eyes. There are special versions of FTP that add extra security:

• File Transfer Protocol Secured: This uses a security layer called SSL or TLS to encrypt (scramble) your data.
• SSH File Transfer Protocol: This uses SSH to create a secure, encrypted connection for file transfers.

Popular FTP Servers

Many different programs act as FTP servers. Here are some popular ones that are free to use:

• FileZilla Server (for Windows computers)
• Pure-FTPd (for Unix-like computers)
• VsFTPd (for Unix-like computers)
• ProFTPd (for Unix-like computers)

You can also test FTP server connections online: FTP Server Online Tester

See also

In Spanish: Protocolo de transferencia de archivos para niños