SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is a secure method for transferring files between your computer and your web hosting server. Unlike regular FTP, SFTP encrypts both commands and data, protecting your information from unauthorized access during transfer.

To use SFTP, you'll need:

• SFTP client software like FileZilla, WinSCP, or Cyberduck
• Your hosting account credentials (username and password)
• Server address (usually your domain name or server IP)
• Port number (typically port 22 for SFTP)

Once connected, you can upload, download, delete, and manage files on your server just like you would with files on your local computer. The interface typically shows your local files on one side and server files on the other, making transfers intuitive through simple drag-and-drop.

Important security note: Always ensure you're using SFTP rather than regular FTP when transferring sensitive files. Look for "SFTP" or "SSH" in your connection settings, not just "FTP." Many hosting providers now disable regular FTP entirely due to security concerns.

SFTP is particularly useful for:

• Uploading website files securely
• Backing up important data from your server
• Managing configuration files
• Transferring databases or other sensitive information

If you encounter connection issues, verify your credentials, check that SFTP is enabled in your hosting control panel, and ensure your firewall isn't blocking port 22. Most modern hosting plans include SFTP access by default.