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MacOS ftp command

The MacOS ftp command allows users to transfer files between computers using the File Transfer Protocol. This built-in command offers a secure and efficient way to move files, whether locally or between remote machines. With the ftp command, users can connect to FTP servers, navigate directories, upload and download files, and more. By understanding how to use this command effectively, users can streamline their file transfer processes and manage their data more efficiently.

ftp Syntax:

Terminal window
ftp [options] [hostname]

Options:

OptionDescription
-dEnable debugging
-iDisable interactive prompts
-nSuppress auto-login
-vEnable verbose mode
-gDisable filename globbing

Parameters:

ParameterDescription
hostnameThe hostname or IP address of the FTP server

ftp Usage:

Connect to an FTP Server

Terminal window
ftp example.com

Establishes a connection to the FTP server hosted at “example.com”.

Log in to the FTP Server with Credentials

Terminal window
ftp -u username example.com

Logs in to the FTP server at “example.com” using the specified username.

Download a File from the FTP Server

Terminal window
ftp example.com
get filename.txt

Connects to the FTP server at “example.com” and downloads the file named “filename.txt”.

Upload a File to the FTP Server

Terminal window
ftp example.com
put localfile.txt

Establishes a connection to the FTP server at “example.com” and uploads the local file “localfile.txt” to the server.

How do I connect to an FTP server in MacOS?

To connect to an FTP server in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
ftp <ftp_server_address>

How do I login to an FTP server in MacOS?

To login to an FTP server in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
ftp <ftp_server_address>

How do I list files on an FTP server in MacOS?

To list files on an FTP server in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
ftp <ftp_server_address>
ls

How do I download a file from an FTP server in MacOS?

To download a file from an FTP server in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
ftp <ftp_server_address>
get <file_name>

How do I upload a file to an FTP server in MacOS?

To upload a file to an FTP server in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
ftp <ftp_server_address>
put <file_name>

How do I change directories on an FTP server in MacOS?

To change directories on an FTP server in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
ftp <ftp_server_address>
cd <directory_name>

How do I disconnect from an FTP server in MacOS?

To disconnect from an FTP server in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
ftp <ftp_server_address>
bye

Applications of the ftp command

  • Transferring files between a local machine and a remote server
  • Managing files and directories on a remote server
  • Downloading files from a remote server to the local machine
  • Uploading files from the local machine to a remote server
  • Connecting to remote servers using FTP protocol for file transfer operations