FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
File Transfer Protocol, is an Internet utility software used to uploaded and download files. It gives access to directories or folders on remote computers and allows software, data and text files to be transferred between different kinds of computers.
FTP works on the basis of same principle as that of Client/ Server. FTP “Client” is a program running on your computer that enables you to communicate with remote computers. The FTP client takes FTP command and sends these as requests for information from the remote computer known as FTP servers. To access remote FTP server it is required, but not necessary to have an account in the FTP server. When the FTP client gets connected, FTP server asks for the identification in terms of User Login name and password of the FTP client. If one does not have an account in the remote FTP server, still he can connect to the server using anonymous login.
Using anonymous login anyone can login in to a FTP server and can access public archives; anywhere in the world, without having an account. One can easily Login to the FTP site with the username anonymous and e-mail address as password.
Objectives of FTP :
■ Provide flexibility and promote sharing of computer programs, files and data.
■ Transfer data reliably and more efficiently over network.
■ Encourage implicit or indirect use of remote computers using Internet.
■ Shield a user from variations in storage systems among hosts.
The basic steps in an FTP session
■ Start up your FTP client, by typing ftp on your system’s command line/’C>’ prompt (or, if you are in a Windows, double-click on the FTP icon).
■ Give the FTP client an address to connect. This is the FTP server address to which the FTP client will get connected.
■ Identify yourself to the FTP remote site by giving the Login Name
■ Give the remote site a password
■ Remote site will verify the Login Name/Password to allow the FTP client to access its files
■ Look directory for files in FTP server
■ Change Directories if requird
■ Set the transfer mode (optional).
■ Get the file(s) you want, and Quit.
