SFTP vs FTPSSFTP and FTPS are both secure file transfer protocols, but they work differently. SFTP runs over SSH on a single port (22), while FTPS is classic FTP secured with TLS over multiple ports. SFTP is usually easier to firewall and operate.Different foundationsSFTP is a subsystem of SSH. FTPS is the older FTP protocol with a TLS layer added. They are not compatible with each other - a server speaks one or the other.PortsSFTP uses one connection on port 22. FTPS needs a control port (21 or 990) plus a range of data ports, which makes firewall rules more complex.Which to choose

Choose SFTP for simpler firewall configuration and SSH-key authentication.

Choose FTPS if a partner system only supports FTP-over-TLS and cannot switch.

You can try all of this without installing anything using FlowSetu's free online SFTP client.Related guides

What is SFTP?

SFTP vs FTP

SFTP port 22

Try the free online SFTP client — connect to any SFTP server from your browser, no install required.