Why is SFTP more secure and faster than FTP?
Why SFTP is more secure and often faster than FTP for transferring website files.
By Yvan Watchman Updated
SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is the recommended way to transfer files to your webhosting. You log in with your DirectAdmin details. Here is why it outperforms traditional FTP.
Security
FTP sends your username, password, and file contents in plain text. Anyone on the network can intercept them.
SFTP encrypts all data, credentials and files, over SSH. Your connection is protected from eavesdropping and tampering.
Tip
Always use SFTP for file transfers. PlanetNode supports SFTP on all webhosting packages. Clients such as FileZilla and WinSCP work fine.
SFTP is not the same as FTPS
The names look alike, but they're two different protocols:
- SFTP runs over SSH. This is what we recommend and support with your DirectAdmin details.
- FTPS is FTP with an encrypted layer around it. That's something else.
So choose SFTP in your client.
Speed and efficiency
- SFTP uses a single encrypted connection (port 22) for both commands and data, reducing overhead
- FTP uses separate channels and can be slower, especially on unstable networks
- SFTP often performs better with many small files and over high-latency links
Summary
| FTP | SFTP | |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | No | Yes |
| Port | 21 | 22 |
| Security | Plain text | Encrypted |
| Login | Separate FTP account | Your DirectAdmin details |
| Use case | Legacy, not recommended | Recommended for all file transfers |
For setting up SFTP access, see How do I set up SFTP for my website?.
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