Introduction to Protocols &
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
Presentation Notes
PART 1: Introduction to Protocols
What is a Protocol?
A protocol is a set of rules and conventions that govern how data is transmitted and received
between devices in a network. Just as humans follow social rules to communicate effectively,
computers and network devices follow protocols to exchange information reliably.
Why Are Protocols Important?
• Standardization: Ensure all devices and software can communicate regardless of
manufacturer or operating system.
• Reliability: Define error detection and correction methods to ensure data arrives intact.
• Security: Provide encryption and authentication mechanisms to protect data.
• Efficiency: Manage how data is broken into packets and reassembled at the destination.
• Interoperability: Allow different systems and technologies to work together seamlessly.
Types of Network Protocols
Protocols are organized in layers. Some common examples include:
Protocol Full Name Purpose
HTTP/HTTPS HyperText Transfer Protocol Web browsing and data transfer
TCP/IP Transmission Control Core internet communication
Protocol/IP
FTP File Transfer Protocol Transferring files between systems
SMTP Simple Mail Transfer Protocol Sending emails
DNS Domain Name System Translating domain names to IP addresses
SSH Secure Shell Secure remote login and command execution
PART 2: File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
What is FTP?
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is one of the oldest and most widely used network protocols for
transferring files between a client and a server over a TCP/IP network. It was developed in the
early 1970s and standardized in RFC 959 in 1985.
How FTP Works
FTP operates on a client-server model and uses two separate TCP connections:
• Control Connection (Port 21): Used to send commands (login, list files, change
directory). Stays open for the entire session.
• Data Connection (Port 20): Used to actually transfer file data. Opened and closed for
each file transfer.
FTP Transfer Modes
• Active Mode: The client opens a port and the server connects back to it. Can be blocked
by firewalls.
• Passive Mode: The server opens a port and the client connects to it. More firewall-
friendly and commonly used today.
Key FTP Commands
Command Description
USER Send username to the server for authentication
PASS Send password for authentication
LIST List files and directories on the server
RETR Download (retrieve) a file from the server
STOR Upload (store) a file to the server
DELE Delete a file on the server
MKD Create (make) a new directory
QUIT End the FTP session and close the connection
Variants of FTP
• FTP (Standard): Basic, unencrypted file transfer. Suitable only for non-sensitive data on
trusted networks.
• FTPS (FTP Secure): Adds SSL/TLS encryption to FTP. Protects credentials and data during
transfer.
• SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol): A completely different protocol built on SSH. Most
secure option, widely recommended today.
• TFTP (Trivial FTP): Simplified version with no authentication. Used for small internal
transfers, e.g., loading firmware.
Advantages and Disadvantages of FTP
Advantages:
• Simple to use and widely supported across platforms.
• Efficient for transferring large files or batches of files.
• Supports resuming interrupted transfers.
• Authentication using username and password.
Disadvantages:
• Standard FTP transmits data in plain text, making it vulnerable to interception.
• Credentials (username/password) are not encrypted by default.
• Active mode can conflict with firewalls and NAT configurations.
• Largely replaced by SFTP and HTTPS for secure modern use.
Summary
Protocols are the foundation of all network communication, ensuring that data is sent,
received, and interpreted correctly. FTP is a classic and important protocol specifically designed
for file transfer. While standard FTP is still in use, secure variants like SFTP and FTPS are strongly
recommended for modern applications where data security is a priority.
End of Notes