FTP Introduction

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol, which is a network protocol used to transfer data from one computer to another through a network. FTP is the simplest and secure way to transfer files. The most common use for FTP is to download files from the Internet to a local computer, or upload files from a local compter to a remote server.

One may ask a question: we already have email for sending and receiving information, attaching files, why we need FTP? Well, if you just have a few files with small size (less than 1MB), using email is a convenient way to exchange files. But if you have dozens or even hundreds of files, in hundreds of MBs, you will need FTP to transfer the files through the Internet.

How to use FTP? Just like you use your email account, you must have your login ID and password. For using FTP, you also must know your FTP user name and password. Contact your web administrator, or web hosting company for your FTP account information.

Command Line FTP

Login to your FTP account

Open your Command Line utility. If you are using Windows, mouse point to: Start > All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt. A window with black background will pop up.

Now you need to log into your FTP account, type the following at the prompt:

ftp ftp.princeton.edu

You will be prompted to enter your user name, case specific and then hit enter. Do the same for the password, case sensitive, and hit enter. When you see the ftp> you are logged into your FTP account.

Depending on the server settings, the message on the screen could be vary for different sites.

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