What is SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol)?
Turkish: SFTP
SFTP transfers files over an SSH connection through encrypted command and data channels, supporting key-based authentication.
What is SFTP?
SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is a file transfer protocol that handles listing, uploading, downloading, deleting, and permission changes securely over SSH. Despite the similar name, it is not encrypted FTP; it is a separate protocol in the SSH family.
SFTP commonly uses port 22. It can work with a username and password, but production environments usually rely on SSH keys, IP restrictions, and separate user permissions.
How Does It Work?
- Connection: The client connects to the server through SSH.
- Authentication: Passwords, private keys, or multi-factor methods may be used.
- Encryption: Commands and file data travel through the same secure channel.
- Authorization: Visible folders and write permissions are restricted per user.
- Automation: Scripts, integrations, and scheduled jobs can transfer files automatically.
Business Use
SFTP is used to collect bank statements, exchange supplier catalogs, share accounting files, or send backups to a secure server. In industries where file-based integration is still required, it provides a simple and auditable channel.
FTP sends data in clear text and should not be used for sensitive transfers. SSH key rotation, chroot directories, file permissions, and transfer logs should be reviewed regularly in an SFTP setup.