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Transferring Large Files Through FTP Can Be a Risky Venture

ftpMany people are aware of FTP method of transporting files from computer to computer (or other servers). FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol, a commonly used file transfer method for incredibly large files or website uploads. While FTP may have some benefits, its risky flaws and security issues should be known. Many people are not educated on the problems associated with FTP, so they do not realize that the security of their files and documents, computer, or external servers may be severely compromised while using FTP to transfer files. Here, you will learn many different issues and problems associated with FTP, while discovering its history and other secure alternatives for FTP.

 

The History Behind File Transfer Protocol

The idea of FTP was originally conceived over forty years ago, making it one of the oldest methods for transferring files between users. Abhay Bhushan was the original creator and designer of FTP. He developed this method of transferring files in 1971.

The standards and specifications behind file transfer protocol has been updated twice since its creation; the first update came in 1980, while the secondly closely followed in 1985.

FTP has since become one of the biggest and most commonly used methods for transferring files online, especially incredibly large files. However, many wonder why it is still in existence. Considering it was created over forty years ago, it is incredibly outdated compared to the technology and different file transfer methods available in our modern day and age.

FTP will probably continue to be one of the most popular forms of file transfer for many years to come, even so.

Is FTP Safe?

The first and most important detail : This file transfer method was never intended to be secure in the first place. This the biggest concern with FTP, as it is highly important in this day and age to keep files safe and secure; especially when you are in the process of trying to transfer them from one place to another.

ftp-connection

When you use file transfer protocol for transferring large files online, you are at risk for a number of security concerns. FTP can leave your files completely unsecure during transfer, allowing hackers to steal them or nose into them. This is especially dangerous when your files contain usernames and passwords. This transfer method can also leave gaping holes in your computer’s firewall allowing malicious attacks to reach your computer very easily. This alone is incredibly unsettling for many computer owners, as they do not want to risk the chance of their computer crashing or their hard drive suffering from brutal melt downs due to Trojans, viruses, and other malicious attacks.

By using FTP, you could ultimately render your computer lifeless, while also losing any valuable files in the process.

Conclusion: FTP is a tricky method of file transfer, and it is highly recommended to only use it when necessary, and while on a closed network.

About the author

Vikram

Vikram is a Digital Media Strategy Consultant who helps small business owners grow their
business. He is passionate about blogging, digital marketing, and emerging technologies.

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  • I understand that it isn’t secure and all that but if it isn’t sensitive information I guess it should be alright..

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