File Transfer Protocols
File Transfer Protocols are standardized sets of rules and procedures that govern the transmission of files between computers over a network. They define how data is packaged, addressed, transmitted, and received, ensuring reliable and efficient file exchange across different systems and platforms. Common examples include FTP, SFTP, and HTTP-based protocols, each tailored for specific security, speed, or use-case requirements.
Developers should learn file transfer protocols when building applications that involve uploading, downloading, or syncing files, such as cloud storage services, backup systems, or content delivery networks. Understanding these protocols is crucial for ensuring data integrity, security (e.g., using encrypted variants like SFTP), and interoperability in distributed systems, web development, and IoT devices where file exchange is frequent.