What is the SFTP Port? A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

In the world of secure file transfers, SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) plays a crucial role. It allows users to transfer files between systems over a secure, encrypted connection. Unlike traditional FTP (File Transfer Protocol), which sends data in plain text, SFTP encrypts data, providing an extra layer of security.

If you’re new to SFTP, you might be wondering:

• What port does SFTP use?
• How is it different from FTP and FTPS?
• Why should I use SFTP over other file transfer methods?

This guide will address these questions and help you understand the fundamentals of SFTP.

---

1. What is SFTP?

SFTP stands for Secure File Transfer Protocol, a method to transfer files securely over a network. It operates as part of the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol, which is widely used for secure remote access to servers.

Unlike FTP, which sends files and login credentials in plain text (unsecured), SFTP encrypts the data during transmission. This makes it much more secure, especially for businesses handling sensitive information like financial data, personal details, and company files.

Key Features of SFTP:

• Encrypted File Transfers: Ensures data privacy and security.
• Secure Authentication: Uses SSH keys or passwords for authentication.
• File Access and Management: Allows file transfers, file editing, and permission changes remotely.

---

2. What Port Does SFTP Use?

SFTP typically uses port 22. This is the same port used for SSH (Secure Shell) connections. Since SFTP runs as a subsystem of SSH, it relies on the SSH protocol for encryption and authentication.

Protocol	Port	Encryption
FTP	21	No (Plain Text)
FTPS	990/21	Yes (SSL/TLS)
SFTP	22	Yes (SSH)

Why Does SFTP Use Port 22?

• Simplifies Security Configuration: Since SSH and SFTP both use port 22, network administrators only need to configure one firewall rule.
• Encryption: SFTP inherits the encryption capabilities of SSH, ensuring data is protected at all times.
• Global Standard: Port 22 is widely recognized as the standard port for secure file transfers.

Note: While port 22 is the default, some system administrators might choose a custom port to enhance security by avoiding common attack vectors.

---

3. SFTP vs. FTP vs. FTPS: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a breakdown of how SFTP differs from FTP and FTPS.

Feature	FTP	FTPS	SFTP
Port	21	21 or 990	22
Encryption	❌ No encryption	✅ SSL/TLS encryption	✅ SSH encryption
Data Security	❌ Unsecure	✅ Secure	✅ Secure
Authentication	Username/Password	Username/Password	SSH Keys or Password
Firewall Complexity	❌ Complex (Passive/Active)	❌ Complex	✅ Simple (Port 22)

Why SFTP is Better Than FTP and FTPS

• Security: FTP sends data as plain text, making it vulnerable to interception. SFTP encrypts all traffic, ensuring security.
• Simplicity: SFTP only requires one port (port 22) to be open, while FTP requires multiple ports for passive or active modes.
• Flexibility: Since SFTP runs as part of SSH, it also enables remote command execution, file editing, and directory management.

---

4. How to Connect Using SFTP

To connect to a remote server using SFTP, you will need the following:

• Host: The server's IP address or domain name.
• Port: Usually port 22, unless a custom port has been configured.
• Username: The login name for the server.
• Password or SSH Key: To authenticate your access.

Here’s a simple example of an SFTP command line connection:

sftp username@server_ip_address

After entering the command, you will be prompted for your password. Once authenticated, you can use commands like get, put, ls, and cd to transfer and manage files.

SFTP Commands You Should Know

• put [local file] – Upload a file from your local system to the server.
• get [remote file] – Download a file from the server to your local system.
• ls – List files in the current directory.
• cd [directory] – Change to a different directory.

Tip: You can also use GUI-based tools like FileZilla or WinSCP for a more user-friendly way to use SFTP.

---

5. SFTP Best Practices

To ensure secure and efficient file transfers, follow these best practices when using SFTP:

1. Use SSH Keys Instead of Passwords: SSH keys provide stronger authentication and reduce the risk of password theft.
2. Restrict User Permissions: Grant users access only to the directories and files they need.
3. Use Firewalls and IP Whitelisting: Limit access to the server by only allowing trusted IPs to connect.
4. Enable Logging and Monitoring: Keep track of file transfers for audit purposes and detect potential security issues.
5. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your SSH server to patch any security vulnerabilities.

---

6. Common SFTP Errors and How to Fix Them

Even experienced users encounter SFTP issues. Here are some common errors and solutions:

Error	Possible Cause	Solution
Permission Denied	Incorrect file permissions or lack of access	Check directory/file permissions
Connection Refused	SSH not running or firewall blocking port 22	Ensure SSH service is active and port 22 is open
Host Key Mismatch	SSH key has changed	Remove the old key from ~/.ssh/known_hosts

These errors can be avoided by following best practices and ensuring your SSH configuration is set up properly.

---

7. When to Use SFTP Instead of FTP or FTPS

Use SFTP if you need:

• Maximum Security: For sensitive business data, like financial records and customer details.
• Simple Firewall Rules: Only one port (22) needs to be opened, unlike FTP, which requires multiple ports.
• Cross-Platform Support: SFTP works seamlessly on Linux, macOS, and Windows systems.
• Remote File Management: In addition to file transfers, SFTP allows you to navigate directories, change permissions, and edit files directly.

If security and simplicity are priorities for your business, SFTP is the clear choice.

---

Why SurferCloud is the Best Choice for Secure SFTP File Transfers

When you need a secure, fast, and reliable environment for SFTP, consider SurferCloud. It provides all the features required for secure file transfers and server management.

Why Choose SurferCloud?

• Global Data Center Coverage: Access 16 global data centers, ensuring fast file transfers worldwide.
• Affordable Pricing: Save up to 40% compared to AWS Lightsail.
• DDoS Protection: Free 2-5GB of DDoS cleaning capacity to keep your server online.
• Dual ISP Support: Unique feature for cross-border e-commerce, providing dual ISP connectivity for 5 key data centers.
• One-Click Deployment: Instantly deploy SFTP-ready servers without manual setup.

Unlike traditional VPS providers, SurferCloud provides a streamlined approach to server management, making SFTP transfers easier, faster, and more secure.

Start with SurferCloud today and experience the most efficient way to manage SFTP file transfers. With low startup costs, transparent pricing, and no hidden fees, SurferCloud is a perfect solution for startups, developers, and enterprises.