How to Connect to an FTP Server from Your Mac

Nonetheless, FTP servers are still around, so it's simply a matter of using the terminal to enable the server side of things. Although it's unclear why Apple removed the easy frontend for FTP sharing, it's possible they're favoring SFTP because it's a more secure protocol.

If you're wondering how this is different from prior versions of OS X, look no further than Snow Leopard (10.6) or before to find the difference. To disable an FTP server, you'll need to have enabled it in the first place. To shut down and disable the FTP server, use the following command:

`sudo -s launchctl unload -w /System/Library/LaunchDaemons/ftp.plist`

This will unload the ftp daemon and shut down the server.

SFTP is recommended because of its default encryption layer and secure transferring capabilities. Note that the FTP and SFTP servers are different, and enabling one does not enable the other.

To verify that SFTP is working, type the following at the command line:

`sshd`

You can also enable SFTP by clicking on the checkbox next to 'Remote Login' in the Sharing Preference Panel of OS X. To do this:

* Click on the checkbox next to 'Remote Login' to enable SSH and SFTP

* Launch System Preferences and go to 'Sharing'

Enabling the SFTP Server in OS X is actually easier than enabling FTP these days. You can then use the 'Connect to Server' option in the Finder or type the following command at the terminal:

`ftp ::1`

If you don't see the FTP server, it may not have finished starting yet, or you didn't enter the command properly.

For more information on Remote Login and SSH Server, check out our detailed guide here.

Mac os connect to ftp server