What is the main purpose of SFTP?

The main purpose of SFTP, which stands for Secure File Transfer Protocol, is to establish secure connections for transferring files over a network. SFTP operates on a secure channel, ensuring that data is not only encrypted during transmission but also authenticated. This means that both the integrity and confidentiality of files are preserved, making SFTP an ideal choice for transferring sensitive information between systems.

While encryption of files during transfer is indeed a characteristic of SFTP, focusing on secure connections captures the broader function of the protocol, which includes authentication, integrity checking, and the establishment of a secure channel. Therefore, the emphasis on securing connections is what sets SFTP apart from other file transfer methods.

Other options might suggest capabilities or characteristics of SFTP, such as encryption and its application in file transmissions, but they do not fully represent the comprehensive purpose of providing a secure communication channel specifically tailored for file transfer.