In order to know the differences between SFTP and FTPS, first, you need to have a basic understanding of file transfer protocol (FTP). As secure FTP hosting providers, SmartFile knows a thing or two thousand about the ins and outs of optimally transferring files. Just as the name suggests, FTP is used to transfer computer files between a client and server on a
computer network. FTP utilizes a username and password, but those credentials are sent in an easily readable plaintext form. Since they are being sent without encryption, the credentials are vulnerable to being intercepted and stolen. When FTP was created ― which, kid you not, was before the Internet ― people assumed that internet activity was not malicious. People didn’t think we would try to hack each other or steal data, and it
wasn’t created with security in mind. My, how the times change. Since people have figured out that they can ransack others’ digital assets for pleasure or gain file, sharing demanded a security evolution. And that’s why FTPS and SFTP exist today. FTPS takes the original FTP and enhances it with a layer of encryption from SSL. While the communications can
be easily read, encryption happens on both command and data channels. FTPS also requires your connection to be authenticated with a certificate. When these certificates are signed by a trusted certificate authority, this provides assurance that the client is connected to the requested server. What is SFTP?SFTP is a protocol based on the network protocol SSH and assumes the server has already authenticated the client. Unlike FTPS, this protocol encrypts the credentials and files that are being transferred in binary so that they are unreadable. Let’s put this into layman’s terms:
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How They’re Different“One of the main differences between SFTP and FTPS is their compatibility with firewalls,” explains John Hurley, CEO and Co-Founder of SmartFile. “FTPS uses multiple ports and needs a secondary data channel which makes using firewalls more difficult. On the other hand, SFTP uses a single connection between the client and the server and so it is more firewall-friendly.” In other words, the transport mechanism is really what differentiates the two. Why It MattersLet’s be real; we live in a digital world where everyone and their brother is using file transfer in some capacity. With it, comes security concerns. Finding the best way to share files securely is not just important; it’s mission-critical for the safety of your personal and professional business assets. (No one likes when pictures of their dogs dressed up as pumpkins are hacked.) Which One WinsWhile some would argue that one is not technically more secure than another, we believe, like many industry experts that SFTP is a superior protocol to FTPS and that’s why we use it ― even though we support FTP, SFTP, FTPS and FTPES connections. For a more in-depth comparison of the two protocols, take a look at SFTP vs. FTPS: The Secure File Transfer Methods Battle It Out. SFTP vs. FTPS: Why Not Both?Some secure FTP hosting providers make you decide between SFTP and FTPS. SmartFile can handle FTP, SFTP, FTPS and FTPES connections, among others. Give it a try for free today — no credit card required! Sign Up Are FTPS and SFTP the same?SFTP builds on secure shell protocol (SSH) and adds on file transfer capabilities. FTPS builds on file transfer protocol (FTP) and adds on a security and encryption layer. It uses a single connection through only one port, making it easier to install firewall solutions.
What do FTP FTPS and SFTP have in common?Both SFTP and FTPS provide a high level of protection. The biggest difference between these two protocols is how connections are authenticated and managed. SFTP connections can be authenticated using a user id and password to connect to the server. SSH keys can also be used to authenticate SFTP connections.
Is FTP over TLS the same as FTPS?HTTP over SSL is often called HTTPS, and FTP over SSL is often called FTPS. FTP over TLS/SSL has two variants, explicit (starts as an unencrypted FTP session and is secured on client request) and implicit (is secured right from the beginning and therefore needs a separate TCP port, usually 990).
Is FTPS a secure protocol?Broadly speaking, FTPS is a secure file transfer protocol that allows businesses to connect securely with their trading partners, users, and customers. Sent files are exchanged through FTPS and authenticated by FTPS supported applications such as client certificates and server identities.
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