Managed File Transfer Glossary

SSH file transfer protocol, also known as secure file transfer protocol or SFTP, is a network protocol that moves files through an encrypted secure shell (SSH) tunnel over port 22 for confidentiality and integrity. SFTP’s strong encryption and flexibility have made it a standard for managed file transfer (MFT) workflows that must meet compliance mandates like FIPS 140-2 or 3.

SSH file transfer is the encrypted file exchange method built on secure shell (SSH), most often implemented as SFTP over TCP port 22. SFTP provides authentication, integrity and confidentiality for manual and automated transfers and is one of the most commonly used protocols in file transfer protocol (FTP) server and managed file transfer (MFT) environments.

Simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP) is the standard protocol used to send email across a network In managed file transfer (MFT) and file transfer protocol (FTP) servers. SMTP mainly delivers operational information about things like system alerts, transfer receipts and audit reports (as opposed to being used for file transfer). IT administrators tie MFT solutions to an SMTP relay to notify users of upload failures, quota limits or policy events and to maintain compliance records.

Secure sockets layer (SSL) is a deprecated cryptographic protocol that encrypts data exchanged between a client and server and requires a server to present a validated certificate before a client exchanges information. During the initial handshake in an FTPS or HTTPS connection, SSL authenticates the server and forms a secure session. It has since been replaced by transport layer security (TLS), which provides the same functions along with a number of security improvements.

Secure shell (SSH) is a cryptographic network protocol that secures session data passed over open networks through built-in public key authentication and data encryption. SFTP operates over SSH, which allows file transfers to operate through a single encrypted channel.

Secure managed file transfer (MFT) refers to a controlled, policy‑driven approach to moving data that combines encryption, authentication, automation and auditing to protect files in motion and at rest. Unlike basic file transfer protocol (FTP) servers, a secure MFT platform centralizes user access, protocol support and compliance logging to safeguard sensitive information across internal and external workflows.

Secure file transfer protocol (SFTP) is a protocol that transfers data using secure shell (SSH) to encrypt authentication and file data in transit. SFTP is one of the most popular file transfer protocols in managed file transfer (MFT) environments due to its straightforward network setup, high levels of encryption and command flexibility.

Secure file transfer is the protected movement of data between systems or external parties using encryption, authentication and integrity checks to reduce exposure to interception, support access control, auditing and policy-based automation for regulated exchanges. This transfer can be performed through a number of channels, including command-line prompts, built-in operating system tools or via file transfer protocol (FTP) or managed file transfer (MFT) server applications, and it will most commonly use secure protocols such as FTPS, SFTP or HTTPS.

Secure enterprise file transfer refers to the controlled movement of larger volumes of business data across internal systems and external partners. These processes will commonly authenticate encrypted protocols such as SFTP, FTPS or HTTPS within managed file transfer (MFT) or file transfer protocol (FTP) server platforms. These platforms provide additional administrative tools like granular access control, audit logging and automation to meet operational requirements for access controls, compliance and efficiency.

Secure copy protocol (SCP) is a network method for moving files between a local system and a remote server. It works over secure shell (SSH). The process includes encrypted authentication and encrypted transfer. This protects files from being read during transmission. SCP is common for command-line file transfers. It is valued for speed and security. It does not include advanced features like file resume. It also does not provide detailed logging. Modern managed file transfer (MFT) tools address those needs.

Secure copy protocol (SCP) file transfer is a simple way to move files between a local host and a remote server. It relies on secure shell (SSH) to protect both authentication and data during the transfer. The method works well for basic file movement without extra requirements. It does not provide advanced functions such as logging or file management that exist in managed file transfer (MFT) or file transfer protocol (FTP) server solutions.