File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a standard network protocol used to transfer files from one host to another over a TCP-based network, such as the internet. FTP commands are used to establish a connection, transfer files, manage directories, and execute various other actions. In this article, we will explore the different FTP commands and their functionalities.
1. USER
Syntax: USER [username]
This command is used to authenticate the user with the FTP server. It sends the username to the server for authentication. Once the username is verified, the server prompts for the password.
2. PASS
Syntax: PASS [password]
After sending the username using the USER command, the PASS command is used to send the corresponding password to the FTP server for authentication. If the password matches the username, the server grants access to the user.
3. SYST
Syntax: SYST
This command is used to determine the type of operating system running on the FTP server.
4. TYPE
Syntax: TYPE [type-code]
The TYPE command is used to set the transfer mode for file transfer. It can be set as ASCII, binary, or image. ASCII is used for text files, while binary is used for non-textual files such as images, videos, etc.
5. PWD
Syntax: PWD
This command is used to display the current working directory on the FTP server.
6. CWD
Syntax: CWD [directory]
The CWD command is used to change the current working directory to the specified directory on the FTP server. It allows users to navigate through the directory structure.
7. NLST
Syntax: NLST [directory]
The NLST command is used to list the names of files and directories in the specified directory on the FTP server. It provides a simple directory listing without any additional information.
8. RETR
Syntax: RETR [filename]
The RETR command is used to retrieve (download) a file from the FTP server. It requires the filename as a parameter and transfers the file from the server to the client.
9. STOR
Syntax: STOR [filename]
The STOR command is used to store (upload) a file to the FTP server. It requires the filename as a parameter and transfers the file from the client to the server.
10. DELETE
Syntax: DELETE [filename]
The DELETE command is used to delete a file from the FTP server. It requires the filename as a parameter and removes the file if it exists.
11. MKD
Syntax: MKD [directory]
The MKD command is used to create a new directory on the FTP server. It requires the directory name as a parameter.
12. RMD
Syntax: RMD [directory]
The RMD command is used to remove a directory from the FTP server. It requires the directory name as a parameter and removes the directory if it is empty.
13. LIST
Syntax: LIST [directory]
The LIST command is used to retrieve a detailed listing of files and directories in the specified directory on the FTP server. It provides additional information such as file sizes, modification dates, etc.
14. QUIT
Syntax: QUIT
This command is used to terminate the FTP session and close the connection with the server.
These are some of the commonly used FTP commands that allow users to interact with the FTP server for file transfer and management. Understanding these commands is essential for effective usage of FTP services.