User:VarneyJenks987
When you hear the term FTP, File Transfer Protocol, one of two things may come to mind.
It's either - Website Hosting or File storage and File share
While the protocol is the same, it is essentially the standard method for sending files between two computers, the purpose is different. When you're using FTP for website purposes you send your files from your computer to your website host's server to be uploaded and displayed as directed. It's used to transfer files to and from your website 99% of the time.
When you're using FTP for file storage and File Sharing you're sending files to your site host to store and share with designated users who you have assigned passwords.
Those are the apparent differences between the two uses. However there is a huge difference when you look below the surface.
One FTP account versus many FTP accounts
FTP for website hosting gives users one FTP account. FTP for file storage and sharing gives users an endless number of accounts, of which can be assigned to individual online folders and files. This is a huge benefit because it gives the account administer the ability to assign their online folders and files to individual users that need them.
For example, an entrepreneur can assign accounts to various folders and files based on their varying businesses. A business can assign accounts to folders and files based on their divisions. A freelancer can assign accounts to folders and files based on their clients and so forth. A business owner who sub-contracts can assign accounts to their contractors.
The opportunity for using numerous accounts is virtually limitless. Depending on the size business you have and your needs you can get as few or as many sub accounts as you need with one FTP site hosting provider.
One user password and logon versus unlimited users and passwords
FTP for website hosting gives an account holder one user logon and password to access files. FTP for file sharing and storage gives an account holder as many user logons and passwords as needed. Each user logon and password can be assigned to any folder that the account holder has created. This allows the account holder to choose which folders and files any given users has access to. It not only provides ultimate security, it gives account holders the flexibility to use their FTP storage account as they need.
One user versus concurrent users
The typical FTP service used for website hosting only allows a single user access to online files at any given time. FTP for file sharing and storage allows concurrent users (multiple users using the same password) access to online folders and files at the same time. In addition, it allows users with different logons and passwords to access online folders and files at the same time.
The concurrent/multi-users feature gives account holders flexibility to collaborate, share, and access online files and folders.
For example, a business owner who hires a virtual assistant can give user access to their assistant who can then access the files they have been given permission to access while the other files remain invisible to them.
Contract Period
Most website hosting accounts require yearly agreements. That means you're locked into your hosting account for 12 months. On the other hand most FTP site hosting accounts for File Host and sharing bill monthly and there are no contracts to get locked into.
While the FTP protocol is the same for both website hosting and file storage and sharing, the purposes and the advantages widely differ. If you're looking to store and share your important files, FTP online storage is one of the absolute safest and economical option.
