Full form: File Transfer Protocol
Also known as: File Transfer Protocol
Quick Definition
A TCP-based protocol for transferring files that supports authentication and directory listing.
FTP provides file transfer with authentication (username and password) and directory browsing over TCP. FTP uses two connections: the control connection (TCP port 21) for commands and the data connection (TCP port 20 for active mode, or a negotiated port for passive mode). Unlike TFTP, FTP supports user authentication and can list directory contents. However, standard FTP transmits credentials in plaintext — SFTP or FTPS should be used for secure transfers.
FTP uses two ports: 21 (control) and 20 (data in active mode). Passive FTP uses a random negotiated port for data, which is important for firewall traversal. TCP port 21 is the most commonly tested FTP fact.
FTP provides file transfer with authentication (username and password) and directory browsing over TCP. FTP uses two connections: the control connection (TCP port 21) for commands and the data connection (TCP port 20 for active mode, or a negotiated port for passive mode). Unlike TFTP, FTP supports user authentication and can list directory contents. However, standard FTP transmits credentials in plaintext — SFTP or FTPS should be used for secure transfers.
FTP uses two ports: 21 (control) and 20 (data in active mode). Passive FTP uses a random negotiated port for data, which is important for firewall traversal. TCP port 21 is the most commonly tested FTP fact.
FTP falls under the IP Services domain of the 200-301 exam. Understanding it in context with related terms like tftp and tcp is essential for answering scenario-based questions correctly.