File Transfer Protocol explained

File Transfer Protocol is known more widely as 'FTP'.

At this point, most people's eyes begin to glaze over - or their 'Geek Alert' alarms goes off - but don't be put off by this phrase.

These days you probably won't have to know an awful lot about File Transfer Protocol, but if you can bear with me for the basics, a little bit of knowledge will certainly help you in the longer term with your web work.

File Transfer Protocol in a nutshell

• It's generally used to move files, images, videos etc from your computer to a server where other people can access this content via the internet
  
• You need FTP software to be able to do it

Hang on a minute, is that it?

Well, I did say it would be 'in a nutshell' and it can get a lot more complicated than this, that's for certain ... but we're making websites here, it's not 'Geek Boot Camp'!

So, very basically, when you write a web page it sits on your PC and only you can see it.

You use File Transfer Protocol to move a file from your computer to a place on a server (normally your web host's server) where everybody can access it via the internet.

Unless you're very keen, I wouldn't investigate much further until you're more advanced in your webmaster career.

FTP - how to do it

So how do you move a file from your PC to a server area where everybody can access it?

You need File Transfer Protocol/FTP software.

This is where it gets a little more complicated, as this part actually involves doing rather than just getting the gist of a few techie principles.

There's lots of free FTP software, though as you'll see from my reviews, I'd generally suggest you pay a few pounds/dollars if you need it as they tend to be easier to use and set up than the freebies.

Filezilla

Price: Free

The blurb: Welcome to the homepage of FileZilla, the free FTP solution. Both a client and a server are available. FileZilla is open source software distributed free of charge under the terms of the GNU General Public License.Support is available through our forums, the wiki and the bug and feature request trackers.

My verdict: Apologies to all Filezilla lovers, but I just don't get on with this software, and let me assure you, I'm much more inclined to go for a product that's free. I'd advise you to leave well alone if you're new to the concept of File Transfer Protocol.

More info here

Core FTP

Price: Free

The blurb: This free, secure FTP client gives you a fast, easy, reliable way to update and maintain your website via FTP. It also provides a secure method (via SSL, TLS, or SFTP) to upload / download files to and from FTP servers.

My verdict: Much better and clearer than Filezilla, but just look at that blurb ... if that scares the life out of you, leave well alone and go for something simpler.

More info here

CoffeeCup

Price: Free, though paid versions are also available.

The blurb: CoffeeCup FREE FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is an easy-to-use, simplified, and, best of all, FREE program! It uploads, it downloads, and it keeps all your FTP server settings in one place.

My verdict: I like CoffeeCup a lot. They make free - and cheap - software which is really easy to get to grips with. I used their FTP programme myself in my early webmaster days and I taught myself how to set up webcams using their webcam software.

More info here

WS FTP

Price: You can get it free with Trialpay (you have to sign up and accept one offer) or from £27 (with no support) for WS_FTP Home ... and they do free trial periods too, which I recommend you sign up for before parting with your cash.

The blurb: Whether publishing a blog, updating photos at an online auction site, or simply sharing photos, videos, or music with friends, Internet users need a file transfer client that is fast, inexpensive, simple, and reliable.

My verdict: This is my favourite File Transfer Protocol software ... and I know it costs (not so much when I bought it!) but it's simple, straightforward, easy to get to grips with and intuitive.

I have taught this product at work and have found that even with the more expensive and complex 'Pro' version, FTP newbies get the hang of it quickly. If you do decide to buy, go for the home edition.

More info here

FTP things to note

• Many packages have 'sitebuilders' these days and you don't have to touch FTP if you really don't want to
• Don't be put off by FTP ... it's like algebra, it'll baffle you for ages then one day you'll be using it and suddenly 'get it'
• FTP is a labyrinth of 'geek hell' and you can get as deeply into it as you like. I've been at this larkfor more than 6 years and I haven't had to get in much deeper than the information on this page on a day-by-day basis ... though don't get me started on matters like chmod!
• FTP software needs a username, password and hostname/FTP address to work ... don't lose those details or else you'll get locked out of your account.
• You can avoid FTP altogether using a content management system or blogging software.

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