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Using sFTP with Your DigitalOcean Droplet

Learn to securely transfer files to and from your DigitalOcean droplet using sFTP with Filezilla, a free and open-source client.

Module 6 - Lesson 3
WebBuild Links: WebBuild Home Module 1 Module 2 Module 3 Module 4 Module 5 Module 6 - Resources & Extras

Using sFTP with Your DigitalOcean Droplet

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Why Use sFTP?

FTP is a commonly used protocol for transferring files, but it is not secure. sFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) works through SSH, providing a much more secure alternative for transferring files between your computer and server.

In this lesson, we will use Filezilla, a free and open-source sFTP client available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. Filezilla also offers extensive documentation and support through its official website.

Download and Install Filezilla

Download Filezilla from the official website:

FileZilla - The free FTP solution filezilla-project.org
FileZilla - The free FTP solution for both client and server. Filezilla is open source software distributed free of charge.

Once downloaded, install the application and open it.

Setting Up Filezilla for sFTP

  1. Open Site Manager:

    • Click the upper-left corner icon in Filezilla to open the Site Manager.

  2. Create a New Site:

    • Select “New Site” and name it.

  3. Enter Connection Details:

    • Protocol: Select SFTP - SSH File Transfer Protocol.
    • Host: Enter your server’s IP address.
    • Port: Use 22 (default for sFTP).
    • Logon Type: Choose Normal or Key File.

  4. Authentication Options:

    • If using a password:
      • Enter the root password you used when setting up your server.
    • If using an SSH Key:
      • Browse to the private key file generated in the previous lesson.

  5. Connect Safely:

    • Click “Connect” and verify the host key if prompted.
Setting up Filezilla to work with SSH keys

!!!CAUTION! When connected as root, you have full access to the server. Be very cautious, as accidental deletions or changes can break your server. Use an unprivileged user account whenever possible for routine file management.

  • Left Panel: Displays local files on your computer.
  • Right Panel: Displays files on your server.
  • Drag and drop files between panels to upload or download.

Tips for Secure Transfers

  • Always connect using sFTP for encrypted communication.
  • Regularly update Filezilla and your server for security patches.
  • Limit root access and use SSH keys for authentication.

By following these steps, you can securely manage files on your DigitalOcean droplet using Filezilla.