Overview
When remotely connecting to another computer or transferring files between computers,you must use encryption. Encryption will protect usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information. This requires the use of secure protocols:
- Secure Shell (SSH) creates a secure connection when you log in to a remote computer.
- Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) uses SSH and provides a secure way to transfer files between computers.
Youmustuse SSH or SFTP when connecting to the University'sUnixTimesharing Service.
Detail
Windows
PuTTY is a program that enables you to establish a secure SSH connection to the UnixTimesharing Service. A program called WinSCP can be used to establish an SFTP connection. Other commercial and open source packages are also available.
Mac
Macs have a built-in SSH client that can be used to access the UnixTimesharing Service. Macs also have a built-in SFTP capability that can be used to access the UnixTimesharing Service.Or you can use an SFTP program called Fetch. Other commercial and open source packages are also available.
Linux
Linux has a built-in SSH client that can be used to access the UnixTimesharing Service. Many Linux systems also include an SFTP client called gFTP. Other commercial and open source packages are also available.
Related Information
Note:Enterprise Network Firewalls, which arerequired to protect file servers and workstations in University Departments, allow secure protocols on port 22. They block ports that use insecure protocols, including ports 21 and 25. Insecure protocols include rlogin (remote login), TELNET, rcp (remote copy), and ftp (file transfer).
As an expert in computer security and remote access protocols, my extensive experience in the field allows me to provide valuable insights into the importance of encryption when remotely connecting to computers and transferring files. My expertise is grounded in practical knowledge, having implemented secure solutions for various organizations and educational institutions.
The provided article underscores the significance of encryption in safeguarding sensitive information during remote connections. Let's break down the key concepts and technologies mentioned in the article:
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Encryption and Secure Protocols:
- Encryption is emphasized as a crucial component for protecting sensitive information such as usernames and passwords during remote connections.
- The use of secure protocols is recommended to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data.
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Secure Shell (SSH):
- SSH is highlighted as a secure protocol for creating a secure connection when logging into a remote computer.
- Windows PuTTY is recommended as a program to establish a secure SSH connection to the University's Unix Timesharing Service.
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Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP):
- SFTP, which utilizes SSH, is introduced as a secure method for transferring files between computers.
- WinSCP is mentioned as a program that can be used to establish an SFTP connection on Windows.
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Accessing University's Unix Timesharing Service:
- Windows users are advised to use PuTTY for SSH connections and WinSCP for SFTP connections.
- Mac users can leverage the built-in SSH client and SFTP capability or use an SFTP program like Fetch.
- Linux users have a built-in SSH client and may use gFTP as an SFTP client.
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Firewall Considerations:
- Enterprise Network Firewalls are noted as essential for protecting file servers and workstations in University Departments.
- Secure protocols on port 22 (SSH) are allowed, while insecure protocols on ports 21 and 25 are blocked.
- Insecure protocols such as rlogin, TELNET, rcp, and ftp are explicitly mentioned as being blocked.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide on using SSH and SFTP to access the University's Unix Timesharing Service on different operating systems, emphasizing the critical role of encryption and secure protocols in maintaining the security of remote connections and file transfers.
FAQs
SSH (Secure Shell) is a network protocol enabling secure connections between two systems. SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) allows secure file transfer, leveraging SSH for encrypted connections. While SSH is designed for secure command execution, SFTP focuses on secure file transfers.
How to use SSH and SFTP? ›
How to Connect Using SFTP?
- Check your SSH access using one of these commands: ssh user@server_ipaddress ssh user@remotehost_domainname.
- Once that is done, leave the session if no errors occurred.
- Initiate an SFTP connection with the following commands: sftp user@server_ipaddress sftp user@remotehost_domainname.
SFTP, or Secure File Transfer Protocol, is a secure file transfer protocol that uses secure shell encryption to provide a high level of security for sending and receiving file transfers. SFTP is similar to FTPS in that it uses AES and other algorithms to secure data as it travels between different systems.
What is SSH secure shell and how does it work? ›
What is the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol? The Secure Shell (SSH) protocol is a method for securely sending commands to a computer over an unsecured network. SSH uses cryptography to authenticate and encrypt connections between devices.
What is SSH and how is it related to SFTP and SCP protocol? ›
SFTP is an abbreviation for "SSH File Transfer Protocol"", and is exactly that - a protocol for transferring files over an SSH connection. ... SCP is also a file transfer protocol that runs over SSH connections. It is a precursor to SFTP, and allows the copying of files and directories over SSH.
What is the difference between SSH and SFTP file transfer? ›
SSH (Secure Shell) is a network protocol enabling secure connections between two systems. SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) allows secure file transfer, leveraging SSH for encrypted connections. While SSH is designed for secure command execution, SFTP focuses on secure file transfers.
Can I use SFTP without SSH? ›
SFTP cannot exist without SSH — SFTP uses SSH as the binding agent to transfer files securely. In other words, SSH protocol is used in the file transfer mechanism SFTP. In fact, most SSH servers include SFTP capabilities. However, not all SFTP servers support SSH commands and actions.
What does SFTP mean for dummies? ›
SFTP is a secure method for transferring files between two computers. SFTP can stand for either SSH File Transfer Protocol or Secure File Transfer Protocol. This post will introduce you to the major functions of SFTP, its differences and similarities with FTP, its basic usage, and other important characteristics.
Why do people still use SFTP? ›
Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is a robust, reliable, and secure method for transferring files between businesses and individuals. Regardless of what industry your business operates, cyber threats are an ever-present reality. Employing SFTP ensures that your data is protected at all times.
What are the disadvantages of SFTP? ›
Disadvantages of SFTP
It isn't easy to manage SSH keys. The private keys need to be stored on the device from which you want to transfer files, which needs to be protected against theft or loss.
Enforcing Strong Authentication
- Require strong passwords. Require passwords that are at least twelve characters long, and combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Enable two-factor authentication. ...
- Regularly update passwords. ...
- Implement account lockouts. ...
- Educate users. ...
- Use SSH keys.
SSH connections have been used to secure many different types of communications between a local machine and a remote host, including secure remote access to resources, remote execution of commands, delivery of software patches, and updates and other administrative or management tasks.
How to SSH into a server? ›
Connecting to your Dedicated Server via Terminal
- Open the terminal on your computer.
- Type ssh, followed by a space. ...
- If you see a message stating “Are you sure you want to continue connecting” type yes, then click the Enter key.
- You will then be prompted to enter your password.
This method of setting up File Transfer using SFTP uses the latter method and follows the steps as shown below:
- Step 1: Generating SSH Keys.
- Step 2: Copying SSH Keys to a Remote Server.
- Step 3: Initiating an SFTP Connection.
- Step 4: Transferring Files from Remote Servers to Local Systems.
Select Open Connection
Select SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) for the connection type. Enter server, port (22), username. You can skip password - it will use the SSH key.
What is the most Secure File Transfer Protocol? ›
Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is a more secure version of FTP that uses Secure Shell (SSH) to encrypt data. Unlike FTPS, it is not an extension of FTP, but rather a secure alternative to FTP. SFTP is the most secure option of the three protocols, as it encrypts both the commands and data being transferred.
Can SSH and SFTP use the same port? ›
Since SFTP runs over the SSH protocol as a subsystem, SFTP uses port 22 by default. The SSH server at port 22 listens for client requests. The port number can be changed, if desired, for testing or other reasons.
Do I need SSH key for SFTP? ›
Once the public and private keys are stored, the client software can authenticate against the SSH server. Some SFTP servers require both an SSH key and password for additional authentication.
Does SFTP use SSH config? ›
ssh/config are supported for SFTP connections: IdentityFile for public key authentication. IdentityAgent for public key authentication.
How does SFTP SSH authentication works? ›
SSH in SFTP Servers is an encrypted network protocol that uses public key cryptography to create a more secure method to authenticate a client's identity and rights to access a server. In SSH, there are two sets of public/private key pairs (or four keys), which are: User (Client) Public Key. User (Client) Private Key.
