SFTP is a secure method for moving files between your computer and a server, and it’s used because it encrypts both your login and the files in transit so they can’t be read if intercepted.
SFTP stands for SSH File Transfer Protocol. It works through an SSH connection, which is the same secure channel many admins use to log into servers. In plain terms, SFTP gives you a “locked tunnel” for uploads, downloads, and basic file management (create folders, rename files, delete files), which is why it’s common in web hosting, IT, and vendor file exchanges.
How SFTP compares to FTP and FTPS
| Protocol | Encrypted login + files? | Common port setup | What businesses use it for |
|---|---|---|---|
| FTP | No | Port 21 plus additional data ports | Legacy transfers where security is not a concern (rare today) |
| FTPS | Yes (TLS/SSL) | Port 21 or 990 plus additional data ports | Secure transfers in environments already built around FTP tooling |
| SFTP | Yes (SSH) | Typically port 22 only (can be changed) | Secure server file access, website work, backups, and vendor exchanges |
Most small and mid-size businesses choose SFTP because it’s simpler to allow through firewalls than FTP-style setups (one connection instead of a separate control channel and shifting data ports), and because it avoids the biggest FTP risk: sending usernames and passwords in plain text.
Why you might use SFTP in hosting
We see SFTP come up constantly for Orlando and Central Florida businesses when you need to upload website files, pull a backup, move large media, or hand off files to a third party without emailing attachments. It’s especially common for healthcare, dental, and law firms where client data and internal documents should never travel over plain FTP or unsecured channels.
What you need to connect with SFTP
- Server address (hostname or IP)
- Port number (often 22)
- Username
- Password or an SSH public/private credential pair
You can connect using a desktop client (many teams use FileZilla, Cyberduck, or WinSCP) or via a terminal. In a managed setup, we usually set up a dedicated SFTP user with limited folder access, so your team can work on uploads without getting full server access they don’t need.
Practical safety tips we use with clients
- Use a dedicated SFTP account per vendor or staff role, not one shared login.
- Limit access to only the folders needed (for example, uploads or a staging directory).
- Prefer SSH public/private credential pairs over passwords when your host supports it.
- Rotate credentials when someone leaves, and remove old accounts.
- Keep WordPress file edits to what’s necessary, most content changes belong in the dashboard.
If you want us to set up SFTP access the right way, including least-access user accounts and clean backups, that’s part of our WordPress hosting work for many local businesses.
SFTP protects file transfers, but you still want encrypted website traffic too, so it helps to understand how HTTPS affects SEO and user trust when people visit your site.
