FTP / SFTP

Import files directly from FTP, FTPS, or SFTP servers

Overview

PrimeLink supports importing files directly from FTP, FTPS, and SFTP servers. This is ideal for large files, automated imports, or when files are managed on remote servers.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is the standard protocol, FTPS adds SSL/TLS encryption, and SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) uses SSH for secure file transfer.

When to Use FTP/SFTP

  • Large files that exceed upload size limits
  • Files managed on remote servers
  • Automated file delivery from suppliers
  • Regular imports from external systems
  • When you need secure file transfer (SFTP/FTPS)
  • Bypassing web server upload limitations

Configuration

Step 1: Select FTP/SFTP Option

In Step 2 of the import wizard:

  1. Find the Upload From FTP/SFTP option
  2. Click to select it
  3. The FTP configuration panel will appear

Step 2: Configure Connection

Enter your FTP/SFTP connection details:

Protocol

  • FTP: Standard File Transfer Protocol (port 21)
  • FTPS: FTP over SSL/TLS (port 990 or 21)
  • SFTP: SSH File Transfer Protocol (port 22)

Connection Details

  • Host: FTP server address (e.g., ftp.example.com)
  • Port: Port number (21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP, 990 for FTPS)
  • Username: FTP username
  • Password: FTP password
  • Passive Mode: Enable for FTP behind firewalls

File Path

  • Root Folder (optional): Default directory to start from
  • File Path (optional): Specific file path on server
  • Leave file path empty to test connection only
  • Use Browse button to navigate and select files

Step 3: Test Connection

Before proceeding:

  1. Click Test Connection button
  2. Wait for connection test to complete
  3. If successful, you'll see a confirmation message
  4. If it fails, check your credentials and try again

Step 4: Browse and Select File

If file path is not specified:

  1. Click Browse button
  2. A file browser will show files on the FTP server
  3. Navigate to your file
  4. Select the file you want to import
  5. The file path will be automatically filled in

Step 5: Continue Import

After selecting your file:

  1. Click Next to proceed
  2. PrimeLink will download the file from FTP
  3. The file will be parsed automatically
  4. Continue with the rest of the import wizard

Protocol Comparison

Protocol Port Security Use When
FTP 21 None Internal networks, non-sensitive data
FTPS 990 or 21 SSL/TLS Secure FTP with encryption
SFTP 22 SSH Most secure, recommended
🔒 Security Recommendation: Always use SFTP or FTPS when possible. SFTP is generally preferred as it's more secure and easier to configure with firewalls.

Best Practices

  • Use SFTP: Prefer SFTP over FTP for security
  • Test connection first: Always test connection before setting up scheduled imports
  • Use passive mode: Enable passive mode if behind a firewall
  • Specify file paths: Use specific file paths for reliability
  • Monitor file availability: Ensure files exist before scheduled imports
  • Secure credentials: Never share FTP credentials
  • Use dedicated FTP accounts: Create separate accounts for imports with limited permissions

Troubleshooting

Connection Failed

  • Verify host, port, username, and password are correct
  • Check firewall allows connections to FTP server
  • Ensure server allows connections from your IP
  • Try different protocol (FTP vs SFTP)
  • Enable passive mode for FTP
  • Check server is online and accessible

File Not Found

  • Verify file path is correct
  • Check file exists on FTP server
  • Ensure root folder path is correct
  • Use Browse to locate file
  • Check file permissions on server

Timeout Issues

  • Large files may take longer to download
  • Check PHP timeout settings
  • Verify network connection is stable
  • Consider using scheduled imports for large files

SSL/TLS Errors

  • Check SSL certificate is valid
  • Verify server supports FTPS
  • Try SFTP instead of FTPS
  • Check server SSL configuration

Next Steps

📤 Upload from Computer

Upload files directly from your computer

Learn More →
🌐 Import from URL

Import directly from a remote URL

Learn More →
⏰ Scheduling

Set up automatic imports from FTP

Learn More →