FTP vs SFTP – How To Choose the Right One?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It was introduced in the early 1970s to move files between computers over a network. FTP establishes separate channels for control commands and for the actual file data. It uses a username and password for authentication, but both are sent in plain text over the network. This process makes it fast and easy to set up, but leaves it exposed to risks like data interception and unauthorized access. If you send sensitive files by FTP, anyone able to intercept the traffic can view your credentials and any files you upload or download.

SFTP stands for SSH File Transfer Protocol. Do not confuse it with FTP, since it uses a different mechanism. SFTP runs on top of SSH (Secure Shell), which means every command and file move is encrypted during transfer. SFTP can use either a password or an SSH key for authentication. SSH keys make it harder for attackers to force their way into accounts. SFTP is the preferred protocol wherever you have to move private or regulated data or when you transfer files over untrusted networks.

How They Work: Protocol Differences

Connection and authentication methods

With FTP, you get two separate connections for control and data. Both channels are plain text unless you use a completely different option like FTPS, which is outside this comparison. FTP authentication is via basic username and password, without support for key-based authentication. This makes FTP easier to set up, but also easier to compromise.

SFTP uses a single connection over SSH. It accepts either a password or an SSH key. SSH keys provide robust security since breaking into an account requires access to the private key instead of only guessing a password. SFTP only needs one port, which also makes it easier to set up firewall rules and watch logs if needed.

Data encryption vs plain transfer

FTP sends all information, including login credentials and file contents, as plain text. This creates risk if you use FTP across an open or shared network. SFTP encrypts every part of the conversation, from logins to commands to each byte of data transferred. Anyone snooping on the connection only sees encrypted traffic, not the actual files or logins.

Security Comparison

Vulnerabilities in FTP

The main risk with FTP is that none of the data is shielded from prying eyes unless you are on a closed, private network. Attackers can use packet sniffers to watch FTP traffic and capture everything sent back and forth. In addition, more ports are exposed due to FTP’s design, increasing the risk of unauthorized access. These vulnerabilities can lead to credential theft and unwanted access to files or servers.

Benefits of SFTP encryption

SFTP, through SSH, shields all traffic with encryption by default. Commands, data, and credentials are all unreadable to anyone who captures the traffic. SFTP can use SSH keys as well as passwords, making unauthorized access much less likely. Since you only have to open one port (the standard SSH port), the attack surface is smaller. SFTP servers also log every session, making it possible to review events for security or compliance checks.

Compliance and data protection

FTP does not meet current security or privacy standards. Compliance frameworks for privacy and data security, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS, require encryption of data in transit. SFTP meets these requirements because it fully encrypts every transfer. Organizations with compliance concerns use SFTP whenever confidential or personal data is moved.

Performance and Speed

Transfer efficiency and overhead

FTP processes each transfer directly and doesn’t have to encrypt or decrypt traffic. The protocol is simple and lightweight, so transfers are fast when set up in a secure, local context. SFTP encrypts every piece of data, which adds a layer of processing. This security can result in a slight slowdown compared to FTP, though most users on modern hardware aren’t likely to notice except when working with very large files or limited resources.

Benchmark data shows SFTP can be 10-15% slower under heavy load. For most small or routine transfers, the impact is not substantial.

When encryption impacts performance

Encryption adds the most delay when you move large files or when the server or client hardware is very old. If you run automated jobs with many large files, and speed is the top concern, the extra overhead can become noticeable. But for daily file transfers and smaller files, SFTP’s performance is usually robust enough.

Setup and Configuration

Enabling FTP on GreenGeeks hosting

Most shared hosting plans, including GreenGeeks, provide FTP access out of the box. You can create FTP accounts for each user in the control panel. Connection is quick with popular clients like FileZilla or Cyberduck. However, GreenGeeks and similar providers often advise against FTP due to its security gaps, asking customers to use SFTP when possible.

Enabling SFTP on GreenGeeks hosting

GreenGeeks supports SFTP on most plans with SSH access. You need to enable SSH access for your account using the dashboard. Then, you can either set a password or upload an SSH key. Once enabled, use any SSH/SFTP compatible client and connect using port 22, with either your SSH key or password. Providers like GreenGeeks offer documentation to help with SFTP setup. SFTP access is usually included, not an extra charge.

User Access and Permissions

Managing users and roles with FTP

FTP usually relies on the hosting control panel for user creation and home directory assignment. Access is basic, users can read and write files within their home directory. There are no options for key-based authentication, advanced permissions, or detailed audit logs. FTP environments risk accidental data exposure in multi-user settings due to these limitations.

Managing permissions with SFTP

SFTP uses the same user and group system as SSH. You can limit users to specific directories using chroot jails. You can also set up SSH key authentication for each user to avoid password-based login. SFTP also records logs of all activity, which helps you see what files were transferred and when, and which account performed the action.

Best practices for user security

• Turn off FTP on production servers unless absolutely needed 
• Prefer SSH keys to passwords for SFTP authentication 
• Limit user access using chroot jails, users can only access files they need 
• Remove unused user accounts regularly 
• Use strong passwords if passwords are allowed 
• Monitor failed login attempts with tools like fail2ban to block brute-force tries 

Use Cases for FTP vs SFTP

Legacy systems and simple transfers

Some old tools and internal software may only support FTP. For systems like this, used exclusively on a private, isolated network, FTP can offer a simple solution. It should not be used for important data or on public networks.

Secure transfers and compliance needs

SFTP is necessary when you handle private or regulated information. Most businesses rely on SFTP for any service open to the internet or any file move that must comply with a legal or industry standard. SFTP reduces the risks of breaches, fines, or leaks involving sensitive customer or business data.

Automation and scripting scenarios

Many scripting languages work with both FTP and SFTP. SFTP works better in automated systems because you can use SSH keys, schedule secure backups, and control file transfers over a single port. Tools like rsync also work over SFTP, making automated syncing and backups safer.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Connection failures and firewall settings

FTP connections can be difficult to set up behind firewalls since both control and data ports need to be open. Misconfiguration can prevent FTP from working entirely. SFTP, which only uses port 22, needs much less firewall adjustment. If SFTP connections do not work, check that SSH access is enabled and that port 22 is open.

Timeout, permission, and sync problems

Common FTP errors include timeouts, denied access due to wrong credentials, or failure to set proper file permissions. SFTP errors often stem from key mismatches, SSH access restrictions, or permission settings at the server level. To isolate problems, check file and folder permissions for each account, validate paths, and consult server logs for recent changes or failed accesses.

Cost and Compatibility

Software and platform support

Free FTP and SFTP clients are available on all common operating systems. FileZilla and Cyberduck are widely used for either protocol. Most modern web hosts, including GreenGeeks, support SFTP by default if SSH access is enabled. Some older or very basic hosting accounts may restrict this access, but that is now rare.

Hosting charges and add‑ons

GreenGeeks includes SFTP support with standard accounts at no extra cost. FTP is included too, but it is discouraged for security reasons. A few hosts may restrict SSH for entry-level plans, but this is not common with providers focused on modern hosting safety. Managed WordPress hosts like Kinsta use SFTP exclusively, removing FTP to help prevent problems. External “FTP as a Service” applications exist if you need special compliance tools or extra features, but most routine users will not buy extra add-ons.

Making the Right Choice

Decision matrix based on needs

Use FTP only if required by an older system, and no sensitive data is involved. Use SFTP in all other cases. If your site needs to meet data security rules, handles confidential information, or is accessible from public networks, SFTP is the only suitable option. SFTP also makes sense for setup simplicity, user management, and audit needs.

Checklist for selecting a protocol on GreenGeeks

• Do you transfer confidential or regulated files? Use SFTP 
• Is access required on shared or open networks? Use SFTP 
• Are you automating file moves? SFTP gives you better security 
• Does your app require only FTP? Limit its use to safe, private networks 
• Is SSH/SFTP access enabled for your account? If not, use your dashboard to enable it 
• Have you set up SSH keys for your users or systems? SSH keys give the highest security 

Final Recommendations

Use SFTP as the default file transfer method for most sites and workflows, especially where privacy, security, audit trails, or compliance rules apply. FTP remains useful only for legacy environments without sensitive data and only inside isolated networks. Modern hosts are removing FTP as standard practice because of its security issues. For any site on GreenGeeks or similar managed hosts, enabling and using SFTP is recommended.

FAQs

1. Can I use FTP and SFTP interchangeably?

No. FTP and SFTP are separate protocols. FTP clients will not connect to SFTP servers, and SFTP clients will not connect to FTP servers. Server and client configuration is different for each.

2. Is SFTP always better than FTP?

For most security, privacy, and modern hosting needs, SFTP is the better option. FTP offers a raw speed edge only in low-risk, private settings.

3. How do I switch from FTP to SFTP on my site?

Use your hosting dashboard to enable SSH/SFTP. Set up user accounts and, if possible, SSH keys for login. In your file transfer client, choose SFTP as the method, enter the server address, and connect using port 22.

4. Do I need an SSL certificate for SFTP?

No. SFTP uses SSH encryption and does not need an SSL certificate.

5. How do file permissions differ between FTP and SFTP?

FTP follows standard file system permissions but does not support advanced controls. SFTP can use the full range of Linux permissions, chroot jails for user isolation, and allows for key-based authentication. This gives better control over who can see and change files.

6. Can I automate transfers securely?

Yes. SFTP works well for scripts, backups, and scheduled transfers thanks to key-based logins and encrypted communication.

7. What risks are there in using FTP on public Wi-Fi?

All logins and files can be intercepted, allowing theft of credentials or file contents. FTP should never be used outside private, trusted networks.

8. How do I test if SFTP is working correctly?

Connect using any SFTP client, log in using your SSH credentials or key, and try to upload or download a small file. Confirm it appears on the server and permissions are correct.

9. Does GreenGeeks charge extra for SFTP access?

No. SFTP is part of almost all standard hosting plans offering SSH access.

10. Should I use FTP/SFTP for backups or staging?

SFTP is a safe option for backups and staging because it secures the transfer and allows automation. Most backup tools work with SFTP. FTP is not fit for important backups due to its lack of protection.

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