File Transfer Protocol over SSL/TLS (FTPS)

File Transfer Protocol over SSL/TLS (FTPS)—also known as FTP-SSL—is an extension to the standard FTP that adds support for the Transport Layer Security (TLS) and the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) cryptographic protocols.

FTPS provides a layer of security by encrypting both the command channel and the data channel. This ensures that credentials and file contents remain confidential during transit. It is important to distinguish FTPS from SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol); while both are secure, FTPS is an extension of the original FTP protocol, whereas SFTP is a completely different protocol based on the SSH (Secure Shell) engine.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Explicit FTPS, the client must “request” security from the server, usually starting on the standard port 21. In Implicit FTPS, the security is expected immediately, and the server usually listens on a dedicated port (990). Explicit FTPS is the more flexible, modern standard.

FTPS is often used in environments where an existing FTP infrastructure needs to be secured without moving to an SSH-based system. However, SFTP is generally preferred by web developers because it only requires a single port (22) to be open, making it easier to manage through firewalls.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Explicit and Implicit FTPS?

When should I use FTPS over SFTP?

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