FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. A TCP-based network, such as the Internet, uses the FTP (File Move Protocol) standard network protocol to move files from one host to another. When two computers are attempting to communicate, FTP creates two connections between them.

One channel handles the data transfer, and the other is utilized to convey requests and answers back and forth between the two customers. Several examples can be considered as the management “send”, “get”, “transfer”, and change directories. The proxy servers or you can say computer servers use these four commands, particularly during an FTP trade.

FTP Port Number: Let’s Understand in Detail

FTP uses a data port in addition to a control port to transport files from the client to the server. Depending on the type of data transfer being used, the data port number may change.

The FTP server establishes a port and waits for a client to connect to it when it is in active mode. The client establishes a connection to the port after receiving the data transfer port number over the control connection. This implies that the FTP server chooses the data port number.

Importance of FTP Port Number

Because it is necessary for establishing a connection between a client and server via FTP, understanding the FTP port number is crucial. One of the first things to check if you are having problems connecting to an FTP server is whether you are using the right port number.

Simply described, a port number is similar to a mailbox number that routes incoming data to a certain computer program. Data is first divided into packets before being transferred over the internet, and each packet is then marked with the correct port number to make sure it is sent to the right application. Here you will understand what is the port number.

Types of Port Numbers:

FTP uses two types of ports mostly which we will understand below.

Control Port: The control port is used to connect the client and server for the first time and to communicate control data. For the control connection, the default FTP port number is 21. The usage of port 21 as the standard FTP port number is not required, though, as earlier indicated; FTP servers may be set up to use an alternative port number for the control connection.

Data Port: File transfers between the client and server take place across the data port. Both the active mode and the passive mode of data transfer used by FTP use distinct methods for obtaining the data port number.

Here are Some of the Features of FTP Port Numbers:

  • Files are transferred between computers using it.
  • 21 is the standard FTP port number.
  • Changes to the FTP port number are possible.
  • The FTP port number can be changed to increase security and prevent port blocking.
  • Depending on the kind of FTP server you’re using, the configuration file’s location may change.
  • You must restart your FTP server after changing the FTP port number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What Port Does FTP Use?

Ports 21 and 20 are using FTP (File Transfer Protocol) for the control and data connections, respectively. The connection between the client and server and the transmission of commands from the client to the server is established via port 21. The actual data transfer between the client and server takes place over port 20. In contrast, while using passive mode FTP, the client starts both connections, and the server replies on a seemingly random high port number.

Q2. What is FTP Port Number?

The control connection between a client and a server is made via the FTP port number 21, which enables connection establishment and command transmission. It is an established port for using the FTP protocol. Although passive mode allows the server to utilize a random high port number, port 20 is still used for data transfer via FTP. Setting up FTP connections and guaranteeing effective file transfers require an understanding of FTPS port numbers.

Q3. What is FTP Server?

A computer program or piece of software known as an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) server enables users to send and receive files via the internet using the FTP protocol. In order to transfer files, the FTP server first establishes a connection with FTP clients by listening to their incoming connection requests.

Businesses and organizations frequently utilize FTP servers for file sharing, backup and archiving, and website hosting. Whether two computers are connected to the same network or are spread over various regions of the internet, they offer a safe and effective means to transmit huge data between them.

Final Thoughts on FTP Port Number

To establish a connection between the client and the server, FTP ports are necessary. Make that your FTP is listening on the correct port; otherwise, connecting to the server can be difficult. FTP creates two connections: one for command transmission and the other for data transmission.

The data connection uses FTP port 20. The default FTP port number for the control connection is 21. To ensure security or avoid network congestion on ports 20 and 21, you can modify the default FTP port.