Using FTP/SFTP on Raspberry Pi
File transfers between the Pi and another device are one of the more common tasks when working with a Raspberry Pi. Whether you’re uploading Python scripts, downloading log files, backing up projects, transferring media or managing web server content, you need a reliable file transfer solution.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) are two of the most common ways to transfer files. Both allow files to be moved over a network, but are very different in security, performance and configuration.
Knowing how FTP and SFTP work on Raspberry Pi can simplify system administration enormously and save you from having to keep swapping out SD cards or plugging in monitors and keyboards.
This guide will cover the differences between FTP and SFTP, how to install them, security considerations, troubleshooting techniques, and best practices for real-world Raspberry Pi deployments.
Understanding File Transfer Protocols
File transfer protocols provide a standardized way for computers to exchange files across a network.
Instead of physically connecting storage devices, files can be uploaded, downloaded, renamed, deleted, and managed remotely.
Typical tasks include:
- Uploading website files
- Editing scripts remotely
- Downloading logs
- Managing backups
- Transferring media files
- Updating applications
- Sharing files across devices
What Is FTP?
FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol.
It was originally developed in the early days of computer networking and remains widely supported today.
FTP allows users to:
- Browse directories
- Upload files
- Download files
- Rename files
- Delete files
- Create folders
A typical FTP connection looks like:
Computer
↓
FTP Server
↓
File Storage
While FTP remains simple and efficient, it has a major drawback.
Why FTP Is Considered Insecure
Traditional FTP sends information in plain text.
This includes:
- Usernames
- Passwords
- Commands
- File transfer details
Anyone monitoring network traffic could potentially view this information.
For this reason, FTP should generally be limited to:
- Local networks
- Test environments
- Isolated systems
It should rarely be exposed directly to the internet.
What Is SFTP?
SFTP stands for SSH File Transfer Protocol.
Despite the similar name, SFTP is completely different from FTP.
SFTP operates through the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol.
Advantages include:
- Encrypted file transfers
- Secure authentication
- Protection against eavesdropping
- Single-port operation
- Easier firewall configuration
Most Raspberry Pi users choose SFTP because it is already available whenever SSH is enabled.
FTP vs SFTP
| Feature | FTP | SFTP | | – | — | | | Encryption | No | Yes | | Password Protection | Weak | Strong | | Internet Safe | No | Yes | | Uses SSH | No | Yes | | Setup Complexity | Moderate | Very Easy | | Recommended Today | Rarely | Yes |
For almost all modern Raspberry Pi projects, SFTP is the preferred choice.
Common Use Cases
FTP and SFTP are useful for:
Raspberry Pi Web Servers
Upload website content quickly.
Python Development
Transfer scripts between development machines and the Pi.
Media Servers
Upload music, videos, and images.
Backup Systems
Copy important files automatically.
Home Automation
Transfer configuration files and logs.
Remote Administration
Manage files without using command-line tools.
Checking SSH Status
Since SFTP depends on SSH, verify SSH is running.
Check service status:
sudo systemctl status ssh
Expected output:
active (running)
If SSH is not enabled:
sudo systemctl enable ssh
sudo systemctl start ssh
Finding Your Raspberry Pi IP Address
Determine the Pi’s network address:
hostname -I
Example:
192.168.1.100
This address is required when connecting remotely.
Using SFTP Without Installing Anything
One of the best features of Raspberry Pi OS is that SFTP works automatically when SSH is enabled.
No additional software is required on the Pi.
Connection example:
sftp pi@192.168.1.100
After entering the password, a secure file transfer session begins.
Basic SFTP Commands
Once connected:
List files:
ls
Change directory:
cd projects
Download a file:
get script.py
Upload a file:
put program.py
Create directory:
mkdir backups
Delete file:
rm oldfile.txt
Exit:
bye
These commands provide basic file management capabilities.
Using Graphical SFTP Clients
Many users prefer graphical tools.
Popular clients include:
| Client | Operating System | | | – | | FileZilla | Windows/Linux/macOS | | WinSCP | Windows | | Cyberduck | macOS/Windows | | Nautilus | Linux | | Dolphin | Linux |
Graphical clients simplify drag-and-drop transfers.
Connecting with FileZilla
Typical settings:
| Setting | Example |
|---|---|
| Host | 192.168.1.100 |
| Protocol | SFTP |
| Username | pi |
| Password | Your Password |
| Port | 22 |
Click Connect.
The Raspberry Pi file system appears in a split-pane interface.
Files can now be transferred by dragging and dropping.
Using SSH Keys with SFTP
Passwords work, but SSH keys provide stronger security.
Generate a key pair:
ssh-keygen
Copy the key:
ssh-copy-id pi@192.168.1.100
Afterward:
sftp pi@192.168.1.100
can authenticate without passwords.
Benefits include:
- Improved security
- Faster login
- Protection against password attacks
Installing an FTP Server
Although SFTP is preferred, some legacy applications still require FTP.
A common FTP server for Raspberry Pi is VSFTPD.
Install:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install vsftpd -y
Verify:
sudo systemctl status vsftpd
Configuring VSFTPD
Edit configuration:
sudo nano /etc/vsftpd.conf
Common settings:
anonymous_enable=NO
local_enable=YES
write_enable=YES
local_umask=022
These settings:
- Disable anonymous access
- Allow local users
- Permit uploads
- Set file permissions
Restarting FTP Service
Apply changes:
sudo systemctl restart vsftpd
Enable startup:
sudo systemctl enable vsftpd
Testing FTP Connections
Using a client:
Host: 192.168.1.100
Port: 21
Username: pi
Password: yourpassword
Successful connection displays accessible directories.
Understanding Active and Passive FTP
FTP can operate in two modes.
Active Mode
The server initiates part of the connection.
This often causes firewall problems.
Passive Mode
The client initiates all connections.
This is generally preferred.
Example configuration:
pasv_enable=YES
Most modern FTP clients use passive mode automatically.
File Permissions and Ownership
Many file transfer issues involve permissions.
View ownership:
ls -l
Example:
-rw-r--r-- 1 pi pi file.txt
The first “pi” indicates ownership.
The second “pi” indicates the group.
Changing File Ownership
Assign ownership:
sudo chown pi:pi filename
For entire directories:
sudo chown -R pi:pi directory
This often resolves upload issues.
Understanding Linux Permissions
Permission notation:
rwxr-xr-x
Meaning:
| Symbol | Meaning | | | – | | r | Read | | w | Write | | x | Execute |
Modify permissions:
chmod 755 script.sh
Transferring Large Files
Raspberry Pi systems often store:
- Video archives
- Disk images
- Backups
- Media libraries
For large transfers:
Use Ethernet
Wired connections provide:
- Higher speed
- Greater reliability
- Lower latency
Use SFTP
Encryption overhead is usually negligible on modern Pi models.
Avoid Wi-Fi Congestion
Large file transfers may suffer on busy wireless networks.
Automating File Transfers
SFTP can be automated.
Example:
sftp user@server <<EOF
put backup.zip
bye
EOF
This enables scheduled transfers using cron jobs.
Creating Backup Scripts
Example:
tar -czf backup.tar.gz /home/pi/projects
Transfer:
scp backup.tar.gz user@server:/backups
Many administrators combine backup creation and SFTP transfers into automated workflows.
Using SCP Instead of SFTP
SCP (Secure Copy) is another SSH-based tool.
Upload:
scp file.txt pi@192.168.1.100:/home/pi
Download:
scp pi@192.168.1.100:/home/pi/file.txt .
SCP is ideal for quick transfers.
Securing FTP and SFTP Services
Security should always be a priority.
Use Strong Passwords
Avoid:
password
123456
raspberry
Use long, unique passwords.
Prefer SFTP
Whenever possible:
Use SFTP
Avoid FTP
Encryption protects credentials and data.
Disable Unused Services
If FTP is not required:
sudo systemctl disable vsftpd
Use a Firewall
Install UFW:
sudo apt install ufw
Allow SSH:
sudo ufw allow 22
Enable:
sudo ufw enable
Keep Software Updated
Regular updates improve security:
sudo apt update
sudo apt full-upgrade
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Connection Refused
Check service status:
sudo systemctl status ssh
or:
sudo systemctl status vsftpd
Authentication Failure
Verify:
- Username
- Password
- SSH keys
- Permissions
Cannot Upload Files
Check ownership:
ls -l
Review permissions.
Firewall Blocking Access
Verify firewall rules:
sudo ufw status
Slow Transfers
Possible causes:
- Weak Wi-Fi signal
- SD card limitations
- Network congestion
- Large encryption workloads on older hardware
SFTP for Internet Access
Many users access Raspberry Pi systems remotely.
When using the internet:
Use SSH Keys
More secure than passwords.
Change Default User
Avoid leaving the default “pi” account active.
Use Fail2Ban
Protect against brute-force attacks.
Keep Port 22 Protected
Consider VPN access rather than exposing services directly.
These measures significantly improve security.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to use FTP and SFTP on Raspberry Pi is one of the most valuable skills for managing files remotely. Whether you are administering servers, uploading website content, backing up projects, transferring media, or automating maintenance tasks, file transfer protocols provide a convenient and efficient workflow.
While traditional FTP remains available for compatibility purposes, SFTP is the modern standard and should be the preferred solution in nearly all situations. Because SFTP is built directly into the SSH service already included with Raspberry Pi OS, it offers excellent security, simple setup, and reliable performance with minimal configuration.
For most Raspberry Pi users, enabling SSH and using an SFTP client such as FileZilla or WinSCP provides everything needed for secure and efficient remote file management.