📡 Introduction to FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

FTP is a standard protocol used to transfer files between a client and server. The ftp program is a command-line interface for this protocol, letting users upload, download, and manage files on remote servers.

🚀 Getting Started

ftp abc.xyz.edu

Use the above command to connect to a server. Log in using your credentials or:

• Username: anonymous
• Password: your email address

🔎 Basic Commands

ftp> help

Lists all available commands in the FTP session.

📂 Navigating Directories

ls                  # List remote files
cd [directory]      # Change remote directory
cd ..               # Go to parent directory
lcd [directory]     # Change local directory
pwd                 # Show current remote directory
  

🔄 Transfer Modes

ascii               # Use for text files
binary              # Use for binary files (images, zips, etc.)
  

⬇️ Downloading Files

get image1.jpg      # Download a single file
mget *.jpg          # Download multiple files
  

⬆️ Uploading Files

put image2.jpg      # Upload a single file
mput *.jpg          # Upload multiple files
  

🗑️ File Management

delete image.jpg    # Delete a remote file
mdelete *.jpg       # Delete multiple files
mkdir newfolder     # Create a remote directory
rmdir oldfolder     # Remove a remote directory
  

🖥️ Local Shell Commands

!ls                 # Run local system command

🔄 Automate Transfers

prompt              # Toggle confirmation for multiple transfers

❌ Ending the Session

quit                # Exit FTP session

⚙️ Command-Line Options

🔧 Advanced FTP Commands (Quick Reference)

❗ Aborting a File Transfer

To cancel a transfer, press Ctrl + C. For uploads, transfer stops immediately. For downloads, the remote server must support the ABOR command to stop quickly.

📛 File Naming Rules

• - as filename = use standard input/output
• |command = pipe to shell command (e.g., dir | more)
• Wildcard expansion follows shell rules (unless disabled)
• Remote or local file names may be altered by case, nmap, ntrans, or runique

📎 Summary

The FTP client is a powerful command-line tool for transferring and managing files remotely. With a mix of basic and advanced features, it remains useful for automated scripts, server maintenance, and managing legacy systems.