SFTP

SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is a secure network protocol used to transfer files between systems. It uses SSH (Secure Shell) to authenticate the connection and encrypt all data in transit.

Because it combines authentication and encryption in one protocol, SFTP is widely used in financial institutions. It reduces the risk of interception and simplifies firewall configuration compared to FTPS.

Why It Matters

SFTP is the industry standard for secure file transfers. It protects sensitive information like ACH files and vendor reports while maintaining full audit trails.

Common SFTP Uses

  • Exchanging encrypted files with vendors
  • Transferring ACH, wire, and payment files to core systems
  • Uploading daily batch processing files
  • Automating secure file transfers with orchestration software

Common Questions

What does SFTP stand for?
SFTP stands for SSH File Transfer Protocol (or Secure File Transfer Protocol). It uses the SSH protocol to encrypt both authentication and data transfers.
How is SFTP different from FTP and FTPS?
Unlike FTP, SFTP encrypts all data and credentials. It also differs from FTPS because it runs over SSH rather than SSL/TLS, requiring only one port for communication and simplifying firewall configurations.
Why is SFTP preferred for banks and credit unions?
SFTP provides strong encryption, supports detailed audit logging, and is easier to secure than FTP or FTPS. It's commonly used for sending sensitive files like ACH batches and vendor reports.

Related Terms

Popular Pages
 
SharePoint AlternativeForm BuilderBank IntranetsCredit Union IntranetsBank Help DeskDocument RepositoryU.S. Based Banking IntranetData-Secure Intranet for Banks & Credit Unions
 
✦ trusted in banking since 2004 ✦