File Transfer Lesson (FTP)

The primary use for FTP (File Transfer Protocol) these days is for transferring files to a website server. Webmasters use FTP exclusively to upload web files to a host server. Either a standalone FTP program or an FTP client built into the webmasters development tool is used.

FTP can be used for any file transfer operation however. If you have large files or many files to upload to a server, FTP is a good tool for the task. In most cases FTP is free so it also provides a cost effective way to transfer big files.

The problem with FTP is that it is a technical operation that takes detailed knowledge and information to set up and run. I wouldn't say anyone can do it but most people with a little training can operate an FTP application.

The most difficult and critical aspect of FTP is setting up the server information. Once successful setup has been completed, it's a matter of selecting the desired files from the local drive (your PC folder) and pressing a button to complete the upload.

If you're sharing files with a client, friend or associate, in order for them to access the files, they will need access to the server via an FTP program. This may or may not be a problem for them. You should make sure your associate will be able to download the files you're sending.

While FTP is an excellent tool for transferring files it is not practical for most people. FTP in its' traditional sense was designed for use by technical personal. Not so long ago only engineers and back room people had a reason to use it. However the times "they are a changin". People in the front office now have reason and cause to transfer big files in the course of their everyday tasks.

For non technical tasks or front office file transfer there are much easier tools to use. There are many managed file transfer applications that provide a graphical user interface to make the task of transferring files much easier. To try out a managed file transfer application sign up for a free account at FilesAnywhere Today.