FTP is an acronym for "File Transfer Protocol". FTP is a powerful application which allows users to access archives that are available on a large number of computer hosts. FTP is a client/server application that allows the transfer of files between computers. This transfer can take place between a mainframe and a local terminal, or as a transfer of information over the Internet between your computer and a distant server. The key elements of FTP are:

• Finding FTP sites from your client based system
• Establishing a connection with the server
• Using FTP commands to facilitate the transfer of information
• Allowing for the differences in file types and compressions techniques.
• Developing an ability to search through "archives" to retrieve information

For the basic FTP commands, click here.