Your source for the most up-to-date terms, definitions, and acronyms for and about internet service providers.
Search for an ISP term
anonymous FTP
Last modified: Tuesday, August 05, 2003
A method for downloading public files using the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). Anonymous FTP is called anonymous because you don't need to identify yourself before accessing files. In general, you enter the word anonymous or ftp when the host prompts you for a username; you can enter anything for the password, such as your e-mail address or simply the word "guest". In many cases, when you access an anonymous FTP site, you won't even be prompted for your name and password.
You can use the Archie system to obtain a list of anonymous FTP sites and files available on each site.
Many FTP sites are protected. Unlike anonymous FTP sites, these restricted FTP sites can only be accessed by individuals who enter a valid username and password.
Anonymous FTP FAQ Good introductory FAQ on FTP and anonymous FTP. There are sections on what it is and how to use it, including commands and listing of different file extensions. There is also information on Archie, Using FSP, Gopher, WAIS, and the World Wide Web to access archives.
How to Use Anonymous FTP Request for Comments document (1635) describing how to use anonymous FTP.
WU-FTPD Resource Center Contains information specific to WU-FTPD, as well as general information about FTP and anonymous FTP servers.
