Understanding FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

FTP or File Transfer Protocol is, as the name suggests, a way to transfer files. The way this works is that it connects two computers, one has published the FTP while the other receives the FTP (client to server format) and if C++ is deemed the root of programming languages, then FTP would be the root of publishing a website.

Many great websites have come simply from the use of FTP but for the new web publisher it would be highly suggested to avoid FTP like the plague for anything outside of experimentation. For those who are experienced enough to comfortably publish a web site using just FTP then it is doubted that you need this article, therefore I will only address the purpose and use of FTP in day to day web hosting.

The first notable difference is the URL as instead of Http:// it will state Ftp://, the purpose of FTP is initially for the transfer of files, and in such case is usually relevant in the publishing of websites to transfer files from the publisher to the host. Generally when dealing with a host even the newest of individuals can easily navigate FTP as the hosts generally do not assume you are experienced with FTP. Many people choose to use FTP software such as Filezilla to make their tasks easier. Generally if working with a host the required knowledge of FTP is limited, though you may often come across the term frequently you should not be alarmed. Though most FTP software originated in command line formats only it is now the standard that such software have a Graphical User Interface or GUI though it is not uncommon to encounter the command line format.

In order to find out more on Colocation Hosting Datacenters Features and similar website and webmaster related guides, check out Web Hosting Fan.