Making a Secure ProFTPD (FTP Server) in Centos 9 Linux
What is ProFTPD?
NB: This tutorial assumes that you have already installed proftpd on your system. If you have not Click on this link on how to do so
SFTP, or Secure File Transfer Protocol, is a secure version of the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). Unlike the traditional FTP, which does not encrypt data during transmission, SFTP employs the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol to provide a secure channel for file transfer.
Some Key Points about SFTP
- Encryption: ProFTPD is known for its extensive configuration options, allowing administrators to fine-tune the server according to their specific requirements.
- Authentication:SFTP uses SSH for authentication. Users typically authenticate using a username and password, or through SSH key pairs. The use of SSH keys enhances security by eliminating the need for password-based authentication and providing a more secure method for verifying user identities.
- Port:SFTP typically uses port 22 by default. This is the same port used by SSH. The use of a single port simplifies firewall configurations
- Compatibility:SFTP is widely supported on various operating systems, including Unix-like systems (Linux, BSD), Windows, and others. Many file transfer clients and servers support SFTP, making it a popular choice for secure file transfers.
- Interactive and Batch Operations:SFTP supports both interactive and batch operations. Users can interactively issue commands to navigate directories, upload, and download files. Additionally, SFTP can be used in scripts or automated processes for unattended file transfers.
It's important to note that SFTP is different from FTPS (FTP Secure), which is another secure file transfer protocol. FTPS uses SSL/TLS for encryption and authentication, while SFTP relies on SSH.
When using SFTP, users benefit from the security features of SSH, including encryption, integrity checks, and strong authentication, making it a secure choice for transferring files over a network.