Overview
FTP is a standard network protocol used to transfer files from one host to another over the internet. The ftp command is a client that uses this protocol, allowing you to connect to a remote server to list, transfer, and delete files. However, FTP is vulnerable to security breaches as it does not encrypt data during transmission. Therefore, for sensitive file transfers, it is recommended to use SSH-based protocols like `sftp` or `scp`.
Key Features
Key features of the ftp command include:
- Command-line based FTP client.
- Connects to remote FTP servers to transfer files.
- Supports interactive mode for executing multiple commands sequentially.
- Provides functionalities such as listing files (`ls`), uploading files (`put`), and downloading files (`get`).
FTP vs SFTP
FTP and SFTP differ significantly in file transfer methods and security aspects.
- FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Transmits data in plain text, making it vulnerable to security risks. Uses port 21 and requires a separate port for data transfer.
- SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol): Transmits data encrypted via SSH (Secure Shell), making it secure. Uses port 22 and handles all communication over a single port.
Main Options
The ftp command is primarily run without arguments to enter interactive mode, or with a specific server address. The internal commands available in interactive mode are more crucial.
1) Execution Options
2) Interactive Mode Internal Commands
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`ftp` Executes the command.
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Usage Examples
Explore the functionalities of the ftp command through various usage examples.
Connect to an FTP Server
ftp ftp.example.comConnects to the `ftp.example.com` server. You will need to enter your username and password after connecting.
Access an Anonymous FTP Server
ftp ftp.example.com
Name: anonymous
Password: your_email@example.comWhen connecting to a server that allows anonymous FTP, use `anonymous` as the username and enter your email address as the password.
Download and Upload Files
ftp ftp.example.com
... (접속 후)
get remote.txt
put local.txtAfter connecting to the server, download `remote.txt` with the `get` command and upload `local.txt` with the `put` command.
Upload Multiple Files (mput)
ftp ftp.example.com
... (접속 후)
mput *.jpgUpload multiple files at once using the `mput` command. `mget` is used in a similar way.
Installation
ftp is typically included by default in most Linux distributions as the `ftp` or `inetutils-ftp` package. If not, you can install it using the commands below.
Debian/Ubuntu
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y ftpRHEL/CentOS/Fedora
sudo dnf install -y ftpArch Linux
sudo pacman -S --needed ftpTips & Cautions
Here are some points to note when using the ftp command.
Tips
- FTP is insecure, so it's best to use `sftp` or `scp` for transferring sensitive information.
- In interactive mode, type `help` to see a list of all internal commands.
- Some FTP servers may require passive mode for a successful connection. Adding the `-p` option to the `ftp` command often resolves this.