File transfer protocol (FTP) is one of the oldest ways to move files over a network. It came out in the 1970s. It lets users upload and download files from remote servers. It works through a simple setup with a client and a server. One channel controls the connection. The other sends the data. Most of the time, it runs on ports 21 and 20. The big issue is security. FTP sends everything in plain text. That includes usernames and passwords. It’s easy to steal data if someone is watching the traffic. Newer systems use stronger protocols like FTPS and STFP and better file transfer tools with encryption. While FTP is still used in some legacy or internal environments, it is widely considered unsuitable for modern enterprise and regulated use cases due to its lack of encryption. Some still use it on older systems or for files that don’t need protection.
How FTP works
FTP uses a client-server setup. A user connects to a remote server to manage files. The connection starts on port 21, which handles commands. Users can list folders, move between directories or upload and download files. The actual file data moves through a second channel. That part usually runs on port 20. FTP has two modes. In active mode, the server connects back to the user for the file. In passive mode, the client handles both connections. Passive mode works better with firewalls. FTP also allows users to rename files, delete them or change permissions. But there is no built-in encryption. Other tools are needed to make it secure.
Core FTP commands
FTP’s utility comes from a concise set of commands that allow flexible file and directory operations across remote systems, including:
- USER / PASS: Authenticate the session by supplying a username and password.
- LIST / NLST: Retrieve file and directory listings.
- RETR / STOR: Download (retrieve) or upload (store) files.
- DELE / RNFR / RNTO: Delete or rename files on the server.
- CWD / PWD / MKD / RMD: Navigate, create or remove directories.
These commands enable automated and manual file transfers but lack encryption or access control and require secure protocol alternatives in regulated or security-conscious environments.
Security concerns with standard FTP
FTP’s most significant drawback is its lack of encryption, which exposes credentials and data to interception during transfer. This vulnerability makes it unsuitable for any file exchange involving sensitive, proprietary or regulated data. FTP can be targeted by different types of attacks. These include spoofing, brute force and man-in-the-middle. Each one can put files and credentials at risk. FTP also uses two channels. That setup makes firewall rules harder to manage. It also opens more ports, which increases the chance of an attack. These issues make FTP risky for many businesses. That’s especially true in fields that follow strict rules like HIPAA, SOX or GDPR. Without encryption and strong access controls, FTP leaves gaps. In modern IT systems, those gaps can turn into big problems. Many companies have moved to more secure protocols because of this.
Secure alternatives to FTP
To address FTP’s security gaps, enterprise organizations are moving to secure alternatives such as SSH file transfer protocol (SFTP) and FTP secure (FTPS). SFTP transmits commands and data through a single encrypted channel over secure shell, which simplifies the firewall setup and reduces the attack surface. FTPS, on the other hand, adds transport layer security (TLS) encryption to traditional FTP to protect data in transit while maintaining separate channels. HTTPS file transfers and modern MFT platforms offer further enhancements, including integrated authentication, key management and detailed logging. By adopting these alternatives, your organization can meet regulatory requirements, secure its data exchanges and gain better control over file movement across systems.
Benefits of replacing FTP with MFT solutions
Organizations seeking a scalable, secure and auditable alternative to FTP often transition to MFT platforms.
Encryption in transit and at rest
Protect files using strong cryptographic protocols during transfer and while stored.
Granular access control and authentication
Enforce user- or role-based policies with multi-factor authentication across your organization’s teams.
Comprehensive logging and reporting
Maintain detailed records for audits, compliance and troubleshooting.
Workflow automation and scheduling
Streamline file transfers using triggers, schedules and reusable workflows.
Compliance with regulatory frameworks
Meet standards like HIPAA, SOX, GDPR and PCI DSS through built-in controls.
Centralized management across file transfers
Manage and monitor all file transfers from a single, unified interface.
File transfer protocol FAQs
Is FTP still used today?
FTP is still used in some places today. Most of the time, it shows up in older systems or inside networks that don’t deal with sensitive data. It’s easy to set up and works with many tools. That makes it useful for quick transfers. Some teams also use it in scripts or data feeds that haven’t been updated yet.
Even with those uses, FTP is seen as outdated. It doesn’t use encryption and has weak security. That makes it risky for companies that need to follow strict rules. Organizations that work with private data are moving away from it. They now use secure tools like SFTP, FTPS or managed file transfer platforms like JSCAPE by Redwood. These give better protection and support compliance needs.
What is file transfer protocol (FTP) used for?
FTP moves files between systems over a network. It works with TCP/IP and is often used to upload files to web servers or pull data from remote hosts. It helps with website updates, file sharing and sending large files across teams. FTP also lets users manage files from far away. They can rename, delete or change files without being near the server.
Even though FTP was important for a long time, it’s used less now in business settings. It does not use strong encryption and is harder to set up with firewalls. These gaps make it risky. Many companies have switched to safer options like SFTP, FTPS or managed file transfer tools. MFT platforms like JSCAPE by Redwood give the same features but offer better security and more control.
What is the difference between FTP and SFTP?
FTP and SFTP move files between systems. They serve the same purpose but use different methods. FTP sends data and login info in plain text. It uses two separate channels. This can expose the data and make it easier to attack. It also needs more ports, which makes firewall setup harder. SFTP works over one channel. That channel is encrypted and uses secure shell (SSH). It is easier to secure and manage.
Most businesses use SFTP instead of FTP. It protects both the login and the data during transfer. It also supports keys for access and stronger controls. This makes it better for companies that handle private or sensitive data. SFTP is often used in places that have to follow strict rules. It helps upgrade from older FTP systems without adding risk.
Say goodbye to FTP vulnerabilities
Upgrade to a modern, secure file transfer solution with JSCAPE.
Modern file transfer alternatives and legacy context
Explore additional terms that help explain or extend your understanding of FTP and its role in file transfer infrastructure.