Definition
SFTP, or SSH File Transfer Protocol, is a secure network protocol used for transferring files between computers. It operates over the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol, providing encrypted authentication and data transfer to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. SFTP allows users to securely upload, download, and manage files on remote servers, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality during transit. This is crucial for compliance and protecting intellectual property in business operations. For instance, a company might use SFTP to securely transfer financial reports to a partner organization. It is important not to confuse SFTP with FTP (File Transfer Protocol), which lacks encryption and is therefore insecure. SFTP is a key concept tested on certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CISSP.