SFTP
SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is a network protocol that provides secure file access, transfer, and management over a reliable data stream. It is typically used with the SSH-2 protocol to provide encryption and authentication, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity during file operations. Unlike FTP, SFTP encrypts both commands and data, preventing passwords and sensitive information from being transmitted in plaintext.
Developers should use SFTP when transferring files over untrusted networks like the internet, as it provides strong security through encryption and authentication, protecting against eavesdropping and tampering. It is essential for scenarios such as deploying code to servers, backing up sensitive data, or automating file transfers in scripts where security is a priority. Compared to alternatives like FTP, SFTP is more secure and often preferred in compliance-driven environments like healthcare or finance.