How does FTP work? 

How does FTP work? Dedicated FTP hosting could be the way to go

If you have ever thought about building your own website you have probably come across FTP somewhere in your research. Don’t lie: it scared you the first time you saw it. Well, it’s not as bad as it looks.

Okay, then what does it stand for?

File Transfer Protocol and it is a very common method of moving files between two Internet sites. That’s it, no big deal. You may have come across Anonymous FTP as well. This just means that data can be transmitted and received without a password or log-in. This kind of transfer is not secure.

Here is the definition from a couple of fancy universities:

The University of Michigan says:
What does FTP stand for from umich.edu:
File Transfer Protocol is a protocol that allows the transfer of files from one computer to another. FTP is also the verb used to describe the act of transferring files from one computer to another

...and Cornell says:
What does FTP stand for from Cornell.edu:
A protocol used to transmit files between computers on the Internet.

How does FTP work?

File transfer protocol software consists of side-by-side panes, with one pane displaying the files on your computer and the other displaying the files on the remote computer. It’s easy to transfer files.  You simply highlight a file and click either of the directional arrows found between the panes. File transfer protocol software may also allow for multiple file transfers, automatic resume features or scheduling features.

Why am I using FTP?

FTP programs are used for a variety of tasks:

• Participating in auctions
• Enjoying online gaming
• Helps you build a Web site on your own computer and move the files to the server hosting your Web page

Here are a couple other terms you may come across and what they mean:

Secure FTP backup 

• FTP Backup features will provide reliable, remote backup for the important data on your dedicated server. This type of backup is self-managed and will most likely be provided to you by the ISP that you decide to use.

Dedicated FTP hosting

• A storage locker somewhere on the Internet where you can quickly and securely upload, download, stow away, and share any type and size files your geeky self may want.

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