Businesses rely on robust file transfer protocol (FTP) server solutions to facilitate file exchanges between clients. Ensuring the security and reliability of file transfers can be challenging, though, especially when sensitive data needs to be protected from unauthorized access or interception.
So how can organizations establish a secure and reliable FTP server solution that meets their file transfer needs? SolarWinds® Serv-U® FTP Server software offers a comprehensive and trusted solution.
This post will give you a comprehensive overview of what the Serv-U FTP server is, its key features, and how to use it.
- What Is SolarWinds Serv-U FTP Server?
- How to Use SolarWinds Serv-U FTP Server
- What Is the Difference Between Serv-U FTP and MFT?
- Serv-U FTP Server Pricing and DOWNLOAD
What Is SolarWinds Serv-U FTP Server?
SolarWinds Serv-U FTP Server is a secure and reliable FTP solution that enables businesses to store and transfer files internally and externally. It does this over IPv4 and IPv6 networks. Users can upload, view, and download files easily via the web or mobile interfaces. It supports large file transfers (>3GB) with a drag-and-drop option. Serv-U FTP server is affordable and suited for small businesses. It offers a range of features designed to enhance file transfer capabilities and ensure data security.
Some key features and functionalities of the Serv-U FTP Server include the following:
Secure File Transfer
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Serv-U supports secure file transfer protocols such as FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS). These protocols allow you to encrypt data during transmission using cryptographic solutions and protect against unauthorized access, accidental exposure, and snooping. This is important because it shields the business from vulnerabilities and attacks. Also, it can help to ensure data integrity and compliance with policies like HIPAA.
User Authentication and Access Control
Administrators can configure user authentication methods (e.g., username and password) on the Serv-U FTP server with the help of a wizard. That way, admins can use granular access controls to restrict user permissions based on roles or groups. Additionally, you can set passwords for the uploaded files so that only those with the password can access them.
File Transfer Administration and Management
Serv-U supports automated file transfer tasks through scripting, allowing users to automate routine processes. You can define rules that trigger specific actions based on file transfer events, such as file uploads, downloads, and user connections.
Large File Transfer
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With the Serv-U FTP server, you can upload small and large files over 3GB. Serv-U FTP supports resumable file transfers, which means that if a transfer is interrupted, it can be resumed without having to restart from the beginning. This feature can be handy for large file transfers, as it prevents the need to retransmit the entire file in case of disruptions.
Monitoring and Logging
The Serv-U FTP server includes monitoring tools and detailed logging capabilities to track file transfer activities, monitor server performance, and audit user actions. The logs give you real-time server details about startup, configuration, and shutdown. This makes it easy to track the state and stage of files in transit and isolate and troubleshoot errors.
Server Settings and Permissions
The Serv-U FTP server allows the sharing of files securely with internal or external users, facilitating collaboration and data exchange. For example, you can configure disk space quotas for individual users or user groups to limit the amount of storage they can consume. You can also limit user access based on IP addresses or ranges. With permissions, you can group users and assign permissions at the group level.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
SolarWinds Serv-U FTP server is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and Linux, allowing deployment flexibility across different environments. However, you should note that it supports specific versions of each OS.
Desktop and Mobile Access
Serv-U FTP server provides mobile and desktop access capabilities, allowing users to access and manage file transfers from various devices and platforms. The desktop provides an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) for browsing the server’s file system, transferring files, managing directories, and performing other file operations. Users can also access the Serv-U FTP server from mobile devices (iOS and Android) using the responsive web client.
How to Use SolarWinds Serv-U FTP Server
To use the Serv-U FTP Server, follow these steps:
1. Download the Serv-U FTP Server software from the official SolarWinds website. Install it on the machine that will act as your FTP server. The installation process is straightforward, and you can follow the instructions for your operating system (Windows or Linux).
2. After installation, launch the Serv-U FTP Server Manager (the administration interface). You can configure various settings, such as the following:
- The server name, ports to use, IP address binding, and other general settings
- SSL/TLS encryption and other security-related options
- User accounts, setting permissions, and managing user access to specific directories or files
- Carious logging options for monitoring and auditing purposes
- Bandwidth limits for individual users or the entire server
- Rules for various events, such as user connections, file uploads/downloads, passwords, and more
3. Start the Serv-U FTP Server service once you’ve configured the server settings. It will begin listening for incoming FTP connections on the specified ports.
4. Connect to the FTP server. Serv-U FTP includes its own intuitive web client. Alternatively, you can use an FTP client (e.g., FileZilla, WinSCP, or a web browser for FTP/FTPS) to connect to your Serv-U FTP Server. You’ll need to provide the server’s IP address or hostname, the appropriate port number, and the user credentials (username and password) you set up during the configuration.
5. After connecting to the FTP server, you can transfer files to and from the server, create directories, delete files, and perform other file management operations. Additionally, you can manage user accounts, permissions, and settings through the Serv-U FTP Server Manager.
6. Regularly monitor Serv-U FTP Server logs and performance metrics to ensure proper operation, and address any issues or security concerns. Keep the software up to date by applying the latest updates and patches from SolarWinds.
What Is the Difference Between Serv-U FTP and MFT?
There are some critical differences between Serv-U FTP and Serv-U Managed File Transfer (MFT). For a full feature comparison, please visit Serv-U website.
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Purpose
The purpose of Serv-U FTP is to provide a secure and feature-rich FTP server solution for traditional file transfer operations. It primarily focuses on enabling users and applications to transfer files over the internet or local networks. Serv-U MFT is designed to address more complex and comprehensive file transfer needs within an enterprise or between trading partners. Its purpose goes beyond providing an FTP server and extends to automating, managing, and securing the entire file transfer process.
Supported Protocols
Serv-U FTP server only supports FTP, FTPS (via SSL/TLS), HTTP, and IPv4 and IPv6. Conversely, the Serv-U MFT server supports additional protocols like HTTPS (via SSL/TLS), and FIPS 140-2 validated cryptography.
Maximum Usage
Serv-U FTP can handle up to 100 concurrent file transfer sessions, 250 user accounts, and three domains. This is not the case with Serv-U MFT, which can handle unlimited concurrent sessions, user accounts, and domains. As a result, Serv-U FTP is suitable for small- to medium-sized organizations with moderate file transfer needs. Serv-U MFT is great for enterprise-level file transfer requirements, with significantly higher maximum usage and scalability.
Automation and Workflow
Serv-U FTP offers basic automation like scheduling where you can schedule file transfers and script executions to run at specific times or intervals using the built-in scheduling feature. In contrast, Serv-U MFT provides advanced automation and workflow features. For example, Serv-U MFT enables you to define multi-step workflows by chaining various file transfer tasks, file operations, and other actions in a specific sequence.
Security and Compliance
Serv-U FTP has standard security features, while Serv-U MFT includes enhanced security and compliance features, like data encryption at rest and audit trails. Serv-U MFT includes built-in compliance features to meet the requirements of regulations like PCI-DSS (payment card industry data security standard), HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), and GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).
Serv-U MFT allows secure file sharing, which isn’t available in Serv-U FTP Server. It delivers “ad hoc” file transfer service to end users, leveraging existing infrastructure and adhering to current security policies.
Monitoring and Reporting
Serv-U FTP provides basic logging and reporting, while Serv-U MFT offers advanced monitoring, reporting, and alerting. Serv-U FTP provides the logging of FTP activities, including user connections, file transfers, and other events. You can access and review these logs for basic monitoring purposes. Serv-U MFT provides real-time monitoring of file transfer activities, allowing administrators to track the progress of file transfers, monitor system performance, and identify potential issues.
Scalability and High Availability
Serv-U FTP can handle moderate concurrent transfers, while Serv-U MFT is designed for enterprise-level scalability and high availability. While Serv-U FTP is suitable for small- to medium-sized organizations with moderate file transfer needs, Serv-U MFT is designed to meet the scalability and high availability requirements of enterprise-level managed file transfer operations.
User Management
The Serv-U FTP server offers essential user management features like user quotas, user permissions, and IP address restrictions, which help control file access. Conversely, Serv-U MFT provides more advanced user management and access control features. These include role-based access control, multifactor authentication, delegated administration, automated provisioning, and integration with enterprise directories. This ensures the separation of tasks and reduces the risk of unauthorized actions.
File Processing
Serv-U FTP provides basic file transfer and management capabilities, such as file naming, deletion, and directory management. In addition to these basic features, Serv-U MFT offers additional file processing features, such as file compression, encryption, data transformation, integrity checks, and automated file retention and archiving. These features enable businesses to streamline complex file transfers.
Serv-U FTP Server Pricing and Download
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Serv-U FTP server is a commercial product, and you’ll need to purchase a license to use it beyond the fourteen-day trial period. The starting price is about $634. Serv-U MFT is generally more expensive than Serv-U FTP because of its advanced features and enterprise-level capabilities, and the price starts at $3,827. The configuration and management options available in the Serv-U FTP Server are extensive, so you may need to consult the official documentation or seek support from SolarWinds for a more advanced setup.
This post was written by Mercy Kibet. Mercy is a full-stack developer with a knack for learning and writing about new and intriguing tech stacks.