What Is File Transfer Protocol (FTP)?
The File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a client/server protocol that lets you transfer files back and forth from one host computer to another. It's pretty easy to use—point your browser to the site you want to download from, click on the link for the file you want, and then wait for it to be downloaded. However, there is something you should know before using FTP. First, it only works over TCP/IP networks, so if you're using a dial-up connection or something similar, you will need more than FTP to work well for you. Also, FTP isn't secure—it sends all your information in plain text! So if someone has access to your network or can see what's going on in your browser window, they'll also be able to see your username and password when they log into FTP sites like Gmail or Facebook! Anonymous FTP is an excellent way to access files and programs from the Internet. You have the know-how, and this article will teach you everything you need about Anonymous FTP. So, you'll need an FTP client program. Many free programs are available for this purpose—search for "FTP client" or "FTP client software" on Google or Bing. Once you've downloaded one, open it and click "New Connection." This will open a window where you'll enter all the information needed to connect anonymously via FTP. In the Server field, enter "anonymous." In the Port field, enter "21." Next, click OK and Save As… in your browser's File menu if necessary. An interesting thing happens here: instead of saving what looks like an image file (.jpg), your browser creates an HTML document that contains all of the code necessary for connecting via FTP anonymously! All you have to do is upload it onto your website (if possible) so others can access it.
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