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

Open WinSCP client
Set File Protocol to SFTP
Enter the server IP address in the Host name field
Input the User name
Click Advanced button
Navigate to SSH > Authentication
Browse and select the private key file location
Click OK to confirm settings
Click Login to establish connection

Using Password Authentication

Open WinSCP client
Set File Protocol to SFTP
Enter the server IP address in the Host name field
Input the User name and Password
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.

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