SFTP is a secure network protocol used for transferring files over a secure connection.
Description
Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is a network protocol that provides secure file transfer capabilities over a secure shell (SSH) connection. Unlike traditional file transfer protocols such as FTP, SFTP encrypts both commands and data, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected during transmission. This makes SFTP a critical tool in the cybersecurity industry, as it helps organizations safeguard their data against eavesdropping, tampering, and other security threats. SFTP is widely used in various industries, including finance, healthcare, and government, where data integrity and confidentiality are paramount. For example, healthcare organizations often use SFTP to securely transfer patient records and sensitive information between systems. Similarly, financial institutions rely on SFTP to send transaction data and account statements securely. Overall, SFTP is essential for maintaining compliance with regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA, as it helps organizations protect personal and sensitive data from unauthorized access.
Examples
- Healthcare organizations use SFTP to securely transfer patient records between hospitals and labs.
- Financial institutions utilize SFTP for sending secure transaction data and account statements.
Additional Information
- SFTP operates over the SSH protocol, providing a secure channel for file transfers.
- SFTP supports various authentication methods, including passwords and public key authentication, enhancing security.