WebFTP

WebFTP is a service offered by an FTP server that enables access to a web server using a web browser .

target

WebFTP is offered for the same purpose as an FTP client : namely to access a remote file server and the like. a. Upload files or download them from there in order to delete files, rename them or to create subdirectories and to switch back and forth between such directories. It does not matter whether the files are, for example, music files or the files of a web presence .

However, WebFTP saves the user having to familiarize himself with the use of an FTP client; in particular, such a software application does not have to be installed on the local computer (e.g. the PC at home or the Mac in the office). Rather, the user interface is a normal website (usually from the web space provider) and the individual actions are initiated simply by clicking on the appropriate button next to a list of the files in the directory currently being viewed.

Examples

Many commercial Internet service providers offer WebFTP as a supplement to Internet access for their customers. In this way, the user can create his own website - often free of charge. However, the URL is not a domain of its own, but a subdirectory on the Internet service provider's website. There are also free, ad-supported services.

functionality

The use of WebFTP to access web space only requires a user account with the relevant web space provider (often: the provider of your own Internet access) and a web browser on your own computer in order to manage the remote web space. After entering the access data on a website, an indirect connection to the web space is established via an FTP server.

WebFTP clients are often implemented as PHP applications.

In addition to the essential functions of an FTP client (e.g. creating directories, uploading and downloading files), the web-based user interface often also allows direct processing of text files and HTML pages using an integrated content management system .

safety instructions

If possible, WebFTP should only be used if the connection to the website is an SSL - encrypted connection, so that user names and passwords are not transmitted unencrypted on the Internet.

It is also advisable to use the WebFTP service of your own provider and not to use free services (especially abroad) for managing an account on a remote FTP server, as the access data can be saved or compromised and misused.