FTPS VS SFTP: Which One is More Secure?

What is FTPS?

FTPS (FTP over SSL-Secure Socket Layer) is a secure FTP protocol that allows you to protect trading partners, employees, and customers and exchange files with them.

FTPS implements strong encryption algorithms such as AES and Triple DES to encrypt key file transfers. For connection authentication, FTPS uses a combination of user ID, password, and/or certificate to verify the authenticity of the system.

What is SFTP?

SFTP (SSH-Secure Shell-File Transfer Protocol) is a secure FTP protocol that can send files through SSH, which provides advanced protection for file transfers. Like FTPS, SFTP implements AES, Triple DES, and other algorithms to encrypt data flowing between systems. It also provides several methods for organizations that require stronger authentication to verify the identity of the connection (using user ID and password, SSH key, or a combination of password and SSH key).

FTPS VS SFTP: Which is More Secure?

In terms of authentication, SFTP takes precedence over FTPS, thus making it a slightly more secure option. With SFTP, you can use a user ID and password to connect to the server, or you can use an SSH key in combination with (or instead of a password) for additional authentication. FTPS does not support this key-based authentication.