Overview
FTP and SFTP are both network protocols used to upload files from your local computer to your web server. This allows apps such as FileZilla and Cyberduck to upload your website to DreamHost so it appears online.
Difference between FTP and SFTP
FTP
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is an old network protocol that transfers files between your computer and the web server. The problem with FTP is that the data is not encrypted during transfer, making it insecure.
- For this reason, FTP should NEVER be used.
SFTP
SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is the modern network protocol that transfers files between your computer and the web server. It provides the same functions as FTP while also encrypting your data during transfer.
- Since the data is encrypted, SFTP should always be used.
FTP is an old term still commonly used to refer to transferring data to your server. For example, you may see this used in reference to an FTP client. However, modern apps only use the SFTP protocol since FTP is secure.
FTP and SFTP at DreamHost
All website users at DreamHost are configured to use SFTP and port 22.
Whenever you use a program such as FileZilla or Cyberduck to connect to your web server, always use port 22. This ensures you are using SFTP, so your data remains safe and protected.