This $10 per month* add-on results in the FTP server being enabled for direct SSL support. This feature is for those that need SSL-secure connections while using third-party FTP client software.
FTPS (commonly referred to as FTP/SSL) is a name used to encompass a number of ways in which FTP software can perform secure file transfers. Each way involves the use of an SSL/TLS layer below the standard FTP protocol to encrypt the control and/or data channels. It should not be confused with either SSH file transfer protocol (SFTP), or FTP over SSH (no acronym).
The most common methodologies of applying FTP and SSL are:
- AUTH TLS, Explicit FTPS or FTPES, named for the command issued to indicate that TLS security should be used. This is the preferred method according to RFC 4217. The client connects to the server, but requests that TLS security be used and performs the appropriate handshake before sending any sensitive data (username, password and data files).
- AUTH as defined in RFC 2228.
- Implicit FTPS is an older, but still widely implemented style in which the client connects to a different port (usually 990), and an SSL handshake is performed before any FTP commands are sent.
FTP Today sites with this feature enabled will function in every implementation of SSL described above. All of these terminologies have the one similarity of using 128-bit (or greater) SSL encryption. Since FTP Today functions in all of these variations on SSL deployment, you can rest assured that our service is compatible with any FTPS software that you or your end users may need to use.
Why use third party software rather than FTP Today's Web FTP Client? Simple. The main reason is to set up scripted or automated transfers. Please consult your third party software provider for technical support or training, while knowing that your FTP Today site will be 100% compatible.
* There is a one-time setup fee of $50 to enable this feature. This fee includes the generation of a self-signed SSL certificate. Root CA Signed certifcates are also available at prevailing rates.
