Don’t let the fancy talk that ping-pongs around the Internet scare you. You want answers, and answers are what you will get — only the best, slightly regurgitated, always fresh answers. I had a letter from a reader in Kansas City asking: “What exactly is FTP?” Since this reader can’t perform a Google search (he has no computer) and thought it was a supplement for STP, I thought I would make it abundantly clear.
A FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It is a protocol that allows files to be sent and received via the Internet. Moreover, it allows one user, on one computer, to access and possibly manipulate the files on another computer. Sound too good to be true? It gets better — way better.
Using one’s personal computer, all one needs do is install the appropriate FTP software that allows him or her to access a particular FTP server. Once you are granted permission, depending on the parameters of the access, you can upload files, download files, and rename or delete files. It is a wonderful privilege and one that should not be taken lightly.
Should you be allowed onto a FTP server, chances are you work for the company or organization hosting the server. This makes collaboration an easy thing. For instance, you upload a file concerning a clients June statistics. You need Bob in finance to plug in the June numbers. You send him a text or email or perhaps even call him on the phone. Bob then scurries to plug in the number and the document is complete. Bob did not have to leave his cubicle and you did not have to get out of your pajamas. Life is good and technology better.
Finding FTP software on the Internet is something of a no-brainer. The best platforms allow easy access (to qualified members) and can be searched. The speed of life just got faster and FTP servers have been helping it get faster and faster since 1985.
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