FTP vs. TELNET: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 13, 2024
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used for transferring files between computers, while TELNET is a protocol for remote computing, allowing users to control a distant machine.
Key Differences
FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is specifically designed for transferring files between computers over a network. TELNET, on the other hand, is a protocol used for accessing remote computers and executing commands remotely.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
FTP is widely used for uploading and downloading files from servers, making it essential for website management and data transfer. TELNET is primarily used for remote administration, allowing a user to log into another computer and control it as if they were physically present.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Security in FTP is a concern, as standard FTP does not encrypt its traffic and can be vulnerable to interception. TELNET also transmits data, including login credentials, in plain text, making it susceptible to security risks.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
FTP involves two channels for communication: a command channel and a data channel, making it more complex. TELNET operates on a simpler model, using a single, bi-directional byte stream for communication.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
While FTP remains relevant for file transfers, secure versions like SFTP and FTPS are preferred. TELNET has largely been replaced by SSH (Secure Shell) for secure remote access, due to its inherent security weaknesses.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Security
Less secure, uses unencrypted data transfer
Unsecure, transmits data in plain text
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Feb 13, 2024
Data Transmission
Separates command and data channels
Uses a single bi-directional stream
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Feb 13, 2024
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FTP and TELNET Definitions
FTP
Supported across various operating systems.
I use an FTP application compatible with both Mac and Windows.
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Jan 18, 2024
TELNET
Enables executing commands on a remote machine.
Using TELNET, I restarted the remote server services.
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Jan 18, 2024
FTP
A standard network protocol used for transferring files.
I used FTP to upload the new web pages to our server.
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Jan 18, 2024
TELNET
Used for diagnosing remote system issues.
TELNET helped in troubleshooting the network device remotely.
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Jan 18, 2024
FTP
Operates on a client-server model for file sharing.
Our company uses an FTP client to access the remote server.
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Jan 18, 2024
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TELNET
Allows users to log into remote computers over a network.
I accessed the server using TELNET for system maintenance.
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Jan 18, 2024
FTP
Facilitates bulk data transfer over the Internet.
FTP is ideal for downloading large datasets from archives.
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Jan 18, 2024
TELNET
Supports two-way interactive communication.
We used TELNET for real-time interaction with the host computer.
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Jan 18, 2024
FTP
A communications protocol governing the transfer of files from one computer to another over a network.
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Jan 17, 2024
TELNET
Often replaced by more secure alternatives like SSH.
Despite its risks, TELNET is still used in legacy systems.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
TELNET
Also Telnet An internet communications protocol that enables a computer to function as a terminal working from a remote computer.
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Jan 17, 2024
FTP
An acronym for file transfer protocol, a standardized protocol used to allow transmission of files between computers; as, send me the file by ftp. It consists of a set of coded signals which are transmitted between computers, and which inform the receiving computer of the nature of a packet of information to be transmitted, and inform the transmitting computer when a packet has been successfully received.
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Jan 17, 2024
TELNET
To access an account over the internet using the telnet protocol
Telnetted from her work computer to her university account.
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Jan 17, 2024
FTP
To send from one computer to another by means of the standard file transfer protocol (ftp); as, he ftp'd me the file yesterday.
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Jan 17, 2024
TELNET
(computing) A network protocol that enables one computer to communicate with another via the Internet; the program that acts as the client in this situation
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Jan 17, 2024
FTP
Protocol that allows users to copy files between their local system and any system they can reach on the network
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Jan 17, 2024
FTP
Use the File Transfer Protocol to transfer data from one computer to another;
You can FTP these data
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Jan 17, 2024
FTP
Commonly used for managing files on web servers.
FTP is critical for updating files on our website.
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Jan 18, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can TELNET be used securely?
TELNET is inherently insecure due to plain text communication; SSH is a secure alternative.
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Feb 13, 2024
What is FTP mainly used for?
FTP is primarily used for transferring files between computers on a network.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Is FTP secure?
Standard FTP is not secure; alternatives like SFTP or FTPS should be used for secure transfers.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Is TELNET still widely used?
TELNET has largely been replaced by SSH, though it's still used in some legacy systems.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Are FTP and TELNET interchangeable?
No, they serve different purposes; FTP is for file transfers, TELNET for remote command execution.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can FTP be used for remote control of computers?
No, FTP is limited to file transfers and does not allow remote control of computers.
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Feb 13, 2024
What are the limitations of TELNET?
TELNET's main limitation is its lack of encryption, making it vulnerable to eavesdropping.
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Feb 13, 2024
What does TELNET do?
TELNET allows users to log into and execute commands on remote computers.
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Feb 13, 2024
What are the common ports for FTP?
FTP typically uses TCP ports 20 (for data) and 21 (for commands).
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Feb 13, 2024
Is FTP suitable for transferring large files?
Yes, FTP is well-suited for transferring large files.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Does TELNET provide file transfer capabilities?
No, TELNET is not designed for file transfers.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
How does FTP differ from HTTP?
FTP is specifically designed for file transfers, while HTTP is for transferring web documents.
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Feb 13, 2024
How does FTP handle data transfer?
FTP uses separate command and data channels for transferring files.
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Feb 13, 2024
Is it easy to set up an FTP server?
Setting up an FTP server can be straightforward, but it requires some technical knowledge.
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Feb 13, 2024
Are there any secure versions of TELNET?
No, TELNET is inherently insecure; SSH is the recommended secure alternative.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can I use TELNET for web server management?
It's possible, but not recommended due to security risks; SSH is a better option.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
What kind of protocol is FTP?
FTP is a standard network protocol used for transmitting files over the Internet.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
What is a common use of TELNET in networking?
TELNET is commonly used for troubleshooting and managing network devices remotely.
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Feb 13, 2024
Can FTP work across different operating systems?
Yes, FTP is cross-platform and can work on various operating systems.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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