Properly and safely transferring electronic files from one computer to another sounds simple enough. What could be so hard? Isn’t sending an email or attachment just like sending a letter or parcel of mail but instead of physically sending it, you simply digitally send it?
As any computer expert will tell you, not quite. There are many things IT professionals must keep in mind when working with transferring files. Electronic data delivery methods are one of the most common uses for the Internet. For this purpose alone, there are different types of servers. Each kind has a distinct set of properties and functions that are geared toward specific goals.
For example, one kind of server is know as a FTP. What is FTP? A FTP (which stands for “File Transfer Protocol”) is a well-known and commonly-used server that specializes in website content and distribution of large amounts of data. It is a standard network protocol primarily used for transferring data from one host to another. A FTP server can operate using a simple command line interface or with a program that includes graphic user interface properties. In other words, it can be user-friendly!
What other different types of servers are out there? Well, there is another kind of server very similar to the FTP. It is known as a SFTP, which stands for “Secure File Transfer Protocol.” It uses the same kind of interface and procedures to transfer data except that a SFTP server uses a “data stream” to transfer files. The files may also be encrypted, which simply means that they are written in a specific “code” that hides the original content, making it difficult for hacker to access the information. Encryption often uses algorithmic schemes to translate the “plain text” into an indecipherable language known as “ciphertext.” A well-known ciphertext, for example, is called a PGP (“Pretty Good Privacy”). It is popular for encrypting business as well as personal information.
There are many different types of servers out there. Make sure to do your research in order to decide which product is right for you!
