How to Connect to VPS Server Using SFTP Protocol

Connecting to VPS via SFTP

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) provides encrypted file transfer capabilities between local computers and VPS servers. Built on the SSH protocol, SFTP encrypts both authentication credentials and data transfers, ensuring secure file operations including uploads, downloads, and permission management.

Connection Requirements

Component	Description
SFTP Client	Software such as WinSCP, FileZilla, or command-line tools
Server IP Address	The VPS server's public IP address
Authentication	Username/password or SSH private key
Port	Default port 22 (unless configured otherwise)

WinSCP Connection Steps

Using SSH Key Authentication

1. Open WinSCP client
2. Set File Protocol to SFTP
3. Enter the server IP address in the Host name field
4. Input the User name
5. Click Advanced button
6. Navigate to SSH > Authentication
7. Browse and select the private key file location
8. Click OK to confirm settings
9. Click Login to establish connection

Using Password Authentication

1. Open WinSCP client
2. Set File Protocol to SFTP
3. Enter the server IP address in the Host name field
4. Input the User name and Password
5. Click Login to establish connection

Connection Parameters

Setting	SSH Key Method	Password Method
Protocol	SFTP	SFTP
Host	Server IP	Server IP
Username	Required	Required
Password	Not needed	Required
Private Key	Required	Not needed

VPS servers support both SSH key and password authentication methods for SFTP connections.

Related Articles

• SSH Connection Guide - Connect via command-line SSH using PuTTY
• VPS Setup Guide - Initial server configuration and SSH key setup
• Common Ubuntu Commands - Essential CLI commands after connecting
• VNC Remote Access - Alternative graphical remote access method

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