FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It’s a simple way to move files between your computer and a server on the internet.
People use FTP when they need to upload a website to a web host, share large files with coworkers, or grab a batch of photos from a remote camera. You open an FTP client (like FileZilla or WinSCP), type in the server address, username, and password, then drag and drop files just like you would between two folders on your desktop.
Meaning & Usage Examples
- Uploading HTML, CSS, and images to a web server.
- Backing up WordPress themes to a local drive.
- Sharing video files too big for email or Google Drive.
Context / Common Use
Web developers rely on FTP daily to push updates live. Designers also use it to hand off large Photoshop or Illustrator files to printers. Even hobbyists use FTP to back up Raspberry Pi projects to a home server.
Is FTP safe?
Basic FTP sends data in plain text. Use SFTP or FTPS for encrypted transfers.
Do I need special software?
Yes, you’ll need an FTP client (FileZilla, WinSCP, Cyberduck). Most web hosts also provide a browser-based file manager.
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