Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Need a server to try this on? Antihost offers Linux VPS plans with NVMe storage, full root access and a 14-day free trial.
To run SFTP with ProFTPD, load mod_sftp, create a dedicated SFTP <VirtualHost> with its own listening port (normally 22), enable SFTPEngine on, and configure the required SSH host keys. You can keep ordinary FTP on port 21 while you test, or deny logins globally and allow them only in the SFTP virtual host when the migration is complete.
SFTP is not FTP with encryption added. It is a file-transfer subsystem carried over SSH2. FTPS, by contrast, is the original FTP protocol protected with SSL/TLS. That distinction determines the port layout, connection model, authentication settings and client requirements.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →What changes when ProFTPD serves SFTP
ProFTPD provides SFTP through its mod_sftp module. The module implements the SSH2 transport and SFTP subsystem; it does not turn the existing FTP listener on port 21 into an encrypted listener. A normal FTP server can therefore continue listening on port 21 while a separate ProFTPD virtual host listens for SSH/SFTP connections on port 22 or another free port.
The separation is important because the protocols use different handshakes and connection designs:
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Turbo Fan:CAGIWIRU Electric Air Duster have reached speed up to 130000RPM,Can efficient remove dust and debris.With LED light and Three Adjustable Speed to meet with different cleaning tasks.
- With Attached USB C Fasting Charging cable.Charing 3 hours,Enjoy up to 240 minutes of use on the lowest setting, For third speed can use for 25mins.with four charging options to meet with your needs.
- Wide Application: attached 5 different nozzles,making it suitable for a variety of scenes, such as car,pet, pc, keyboards, and other electronic devices. It also serves for office and home clean duster.
- Handy Design & Portable:Cordless air duster electric nozzle is Light weight and small size, design and comfortable to hold and space saving, convenient to carry around. You can put it in your room or inside the car without taking up space.
- Economical &Reusable: Built durable materials with a long-lasting battery,our CAGIWIRU air duster it's a sustainable alternative to disposable air cans.
| Characteristic | SFTP through mod_sftp |
FTPS |
|---|---|---|
| Protocol stack | SFTP subsystem over SSH2 | FTP with SSL/TLS protection |
| Connection model | One SSH transport carries the session and file operations | FTP control and data channels, with the usual multiple-connection behavior |
| Typical port arrangement | One SSH/SFTP port, commonly 22 | FTP control port plus the server’s configured passive or active data ports |
| Authentication | ProFTPD authentication plus SSH-style password or public-key methods | FTP authentication negotiated with TLS |
| Client requirement | An SFTP-capable SSH client | An FTPS-capable FTP client |
An FTP client configured for explicit or implicit TLS is not automatically an SFTP client. Before changing a production endpoint, verify that every user or application supports SFTP and can reach the selected SSH port.
Plan the listeners and virtual hosts
Use a dedicated virtual host for SFTP. The same IP address may be used by more than one ProFTPD virtual host as long as their Port directives differ. A common transition layout is:
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstall- Port 21: the existing FTP service, left available while clients are migrated.
- Port 22: the ProFTPD SFTP service, provided no other SSH daemon is already bound there.
- An alternate port: a documented free port if another SSH service already owns port 22.
Check the server’s current SSH services and included ProFTPD configuration before selecting a port. A port collision prevents the SFTP listener from starting, while an overlooked included file can leave an old FTP listener or permissive login rule active after you believe FTP has been disabled. The chosen port must also be allowed through the host and network firewalls.
Prerequisites before editing the configuration
- Install a ProFTPD build that contains
mod_sftp, and confirm that the module is loaded by the running daemon. - Identify the server address used by the service. The examples below use the documentation address
203.0.113.10; replace it with the address assigned to your server. - Choose a free TCP port for SSH/SFTP. Use 22 only when it is not occupied by another SSH service.
- Locate the OpenSSH host-key files, normally the RSA, ECDSA and Ed25519 keys under
/etc/ssh/. - Create the directory for SFTP logs and make sure the ProFTPD daemon can write to it.
- Decide whether users will authenticate with passwords, public keys, or both, consistent with the rest of your ProFTPD authentication configuration.
- Have an SFTP-capable client available for a test connection before removing FTP access.
SFTPHostKey is mandatory. Reusing the host keys already presented by the server’s OpenSSH service is the recommended arrangement. If ProFTPD presents different keys for the same address, clients can warn that the host identity has changed even though they are connecting to the same machine.
Rank #2
- Screen Cleaner is Your Screen’s New Bestfriend! - EVEO is proud to present a screen cleaner that’s perfectly suited for your TV. Meet your new screen cleaner, computer screen cleaner, laptop cleaner, iPad cleaner, Macbook,tv cleaner or any other electronic device. Our screen cleaner spray and wipe along with the included plush microfiber cloth, easily removes dust, fingerprints & other smudges on the screen’s surface. Clean effectively for a streak-free screen
- Gentle on your Screens - Our screen cleaner spray and wipes is compatible to be used even for the most sensitive LCD, LED, CRT, and OLED screens in proper use. Be at ease knowing that this product is compatible with all the major brands: LG, SONY, Samsung, Sharp, iPad, iPhone, Android screens, Kindle, PC monitors - we’ve got you covered! Can be used as LCD screen cleaner, tv cleaner, smart tv screen cleaner, and more
- Premium Super Soft Plush Microfiber Cloth - Included in this efficient screen cleaning kit. This screen cleaner spray and wipe has our signature plush microfiber cloth specially designed to comply with screens and monitors and leave them streak-free. Has been shown to effectively absorbs stubborn stains, zero streaks, and no fiber shedding. Always use this together with our screen cleaner for the best results
- Easy-to-Use Screen Cleaner Kit + microfiber cleaning cloth - The EVEO Screen Cleaning Kit will easily be your new favorite tool when it comes to taking care of the things you love most, quick and easy solution for a streak-free screen. Simply screw on the sprayer gun on the screen cleaner bottle. Spray the cleaning liquid onto the microfiber cloth, then wipe the screen until desired cleanliness & shine is achieved.
- Quality Screen Care Kit Worth Purchasing - Enjoy a convenient Screen Cleaner anytime, anywhere you need it. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind the quality of our products and that’s why, you shouldn’t be worrying at all. We manufacture the Best Screen Cleaner. and can be used for laptop cleaning kit, laptop screen cleaner, tv screen cleaner for smart tv. MacBook screen cleaner, monitor cleaner or screen cleaner spray for electronic devices with microfiber cleaning cloth
Configure SFTP alongside the existing FTP service
The following shape keeps an existing FTP listener on port 21 and adds SFTP on port 22. The <IfModule> wrapper prevents the enclosed block from being interpreted on a build where the module is absent, but it should not be treated as proof that SFTP is available; still verify that mod_sftp is installed and loaded.
# Existing FTP listener
DefaultAddress 203.0.113.10
Port 21
<IfModule mod_sftp.c>
<VirtualHost 203.0.113.10>
Port 22
SFTPEngine on
SFTPLog /etc/proftpd/sftp/sftp.log
# Reuse the host keys used by OpenSSH
SFTPHostKey /etc/ssh/ssh_host_rsa_key
SFTPHostKey /etc/ssh/ssh_host_ecdsa_key
SFTPHostKey /etc/ssh/ssh_host_ed25519_key
# Per-user public-key authorization example
SFTPAuthorizedUserKeys file:~/.sftp/authorized_keys
</VirtualHost>
</IfModule>1. Keep the FTP block intact during migration
Do not remove the old DefaultAddress and Port 21 settings until an SFTP client has successfully authenticated and transferred a file. Keeping the listener temporarily gives you a controlled rollback path for clients that have not yet been converted.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →2. Add the SFTP virtual host
Place the SFTP block in the active ProFTPD configuration or an included file that the daemon actually reads. The virtual host uses the same address as the FTP service but declares a different Port. If port 22 is already occupied, replace it with the free port selected during planning and communicate that port to clients.
3. Enable the SFTP engine
SFTPEngine on turns on the SSH2/SFTP service for this virtual host. Without it, the virtual host does not provide SFTP even if the port and keys are present.
Rank #3
- 【Large size】：Measuring 800 x 300 mm/ 31. 5×12 inches, which is wider and taller than others. Large mouse pad can perfectly fit your keyboard and mouse of any size, and there is also ample space for peripherals such as phones, tablets, etc.
- 【LED backlight mouse pad】：Blade Hawks RGB mouse pad provides 7 static modes and 7 dynamic modes will give you the options you are looking for. Power-off memory function remembers the last lighting mode you selected. The super glow fiber Chroma will give you a colorful gaming setup that you want.
- 【Anti-slip rubber base】：Made from Natural rubber, this gaming mousepad will firmly grip your desktop, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate precision in the games you are most passionate about. It also comes with a texture that enhances this ability even further.
- 【Smooth and waterproof surface】: Micro-textured cloth surface, for extremely precise mouse control and a smooth movement. When liquid splashes on the gaming mouse pad, it forms water droplets and slides down. Will not delay your work or gameplay.
- 【Plug and play】: This mouse and keyboard pad is powered by USB, plug and play, no driver required. One button control light modes. Press one time to change the lighting mode, press twice to change the brightness, press and hold about 3 seconds turn ON/OFF.
4. Configure logging
SFTPLog /etc/proftpd/sftp/sftp.log sends SFTP-specific events to the indicated file. Create the parent directory if necessary and verify its ownership and permissions allow the ProFTPD daemon to write. A missing or unwritable log path can hide useful authentication and connection details during the first test.
5. Set the required host keys
Each SFTPHostKey line points to a private SSH host-key file. The example uses the existing OpenSSH RSA, ECDSA and Ed25519 keys. Keep those files private and readable by the daemon according to the server’s normal key-file permissions. Do not generate a second, unrelated identity for ProFTPD unless you have a specific operational reason and are prepared for clients to see a different host fingerprint.
6. Apply your authentication policy
The example includes a per-user public-key authorization path. Password authentication can remain governed by the ProFTPD authentication configuration already used on the server. Public-key authentication requires the user’s authorized key file to exist at the path resolved from that user’s home directory and to contain a key in the format expected by mod_sftp.
Configure public-key authentication
SFTPAuthorizedUserKeys tells mod_sftp where to find public keys authorized for a user. In the example, file:~/.sftp/authorized_keys means that each account has a .sftp/authorized_keys file beneath its own home directory. Create the directory and file for each account that will use key authentication, then protect them with permissions appropriate to your existing ProFTPD account policy.
Rank #4
- 【Softer and More Comfortable】Vaydeer wrist rest has unique diamond pattern, which is the combination of softness and aesthetics. The materials of wrist rest are improved into higher quality memory foam and covered with silky smooth lycra. The computer wrist rest makes you as comfortable and cushiony as like rest your wrists on clouds.
- 【Ergonomic Wrist Saver】The wrist rests for keyboard and mouse comes with a 17.32×3.15×0.83 inch keyboard wrist pad and a 5.94×3.15×0.83 inch mouse wrist support. Based on ergonomic design, the unique concave shape is the perfect fit for your wrist joints. The wrist rest pad fits most computer keyboards and laptops, improve hand and wrist posture, release your wrist and arm stress.
- 【Non-Slip Rubber Bottom】Featuring an anti-skid silicone base on the bottom, this wrist keyboard support stays firmly in place on your desk, preventing the padding from sliding around, ensuring stable and consistent wrist support during extended computer sessions.
- 【Better Experience & Pain Relief】Our keyboard arm rest is beneficial to alleviate the soreness caused by direct contact and friction between your arm and a hard desk surface, reducing the risk of wrist fatigue or carpal tunnel. The soft texture of memory foam can evenly distribute the pressure around your wrists and provide good support with just enough give.
- 【Helpful in Multiple Scenarios】Whether you're working, studying, writing, typing, gaming, this keyboard and mouse rest combo is an essential accessory to add comfort and support to your hands and wrists. It’s also a great gift for men, women, family, friend, coworker, gamer, teacher, etc.
When importing a public key created for OpenSSH, convert it to RFC4716 format if required by the directive. The documented conversion command is:
ssh-keygen -e -f ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub -m RFC4716Place the converted key in the configured authorization file. Keep the original OpenSSH public key separately if you need it for other services; the converted RFC4716 output is the copy used for this ProFTPD authorization path. Test one account with a key before distributing the configuration to all users.
Make the service SFTP-only
If the goal is to replace FTP rather than operate both protocols, deny logins in the main server context and explicitly allow them only inside the SFTP virtual host. This is a login policy, not merely a port change:
<Limit LOGIN>
DenyAll
</Limit>
<VirtualHost 203.0.113.10>
<Limit LOGIN>
AllowAll
</Limit>
Port 22
SFTPEngine on
# host keys, logging, and authentication directives here
</VirtualHost>How the policy works
The outer <Limit LOGIN> denies logins in the main server context. The nested rule re-allows them for the SFTP virtual host, so users can authenticate through SFTP while the general FTP context cannot accept logins.
Best Value
- 【No Drill Mounted】Cable management tray can be assembled in as little as 3 minutes or less-simply. Side clips easily clampe the edge of desk, pass through the holes on the sides, and secure excess cables with baskets. Desk cable management supports inward or outward installation to meet your needs in different scenarios, and provides you with great convenience when collecting and organizing wires.
- 【Rubber Pad Protects Desk】Wire organizer under desk built-in soft rubber pads on the clamp protect your desk from scratches, so you will not damage your furniture or office.
- 【Sturdy and Beautiful】Cord management under desk is made of high-quality carbon steel and holds about 15 lbs. The wire basket has 2 holes on each side of the tray to enable your cables to pass freely. Cable baskets are suitable for desk thickness use from 0.4" to 2.4".
- 【Space Saving & Keep Organized】Desk cable management tray holds all your power cords, outlet strips, USB hubs and computer transformers hidden from your feet, and the data cables will not enter the vacuum cleaner to keep your desk clean and tidy. Desk wire organizer is also suitable for use in the kitchen and outdoors.
- 【Reduce Safety Risks】Cable tray under desk keeps all plugs away from your kids, no more worry about tripping. Using 2 holes wire tray saves extra space, helps you easily cabling and wire protection. The mesh design is not easy to accumulate dust, but avoids safety accidents caused by messy wires.
Audit every included configuration
Before declaring the server SFTP-only, review all existing virtual hosts and included files. An additional FTP listener, another virtual host with AllowAll, or a broader login rule can defeat the intended restriction. Remove or disable the port 21 listener only after the SFTP test succeeds and the configuration has been reviewed as a whole.
Test the new endpoint before the cutover
- Confirm that the ProFTPD build includes
mod_sftpand that the module is loaded by the daemon. - Check that the selected SFTP port is free and that no other SSH service is using it.
- Verify that all three required areas are present in the SFTP virtual host:
SFTPEngine on, at least one validSFTPHostKey, and the intended authentication settings. - Confirm that the SFTP log directory exists and is writable by ProFTPD.
- Allow the selected port through the relevant firewall layers.
- Connect with an SFTP client to the server address and selected port. Use the same account policy you intend to deploy, first with a password or then with a converted public key.
- Perform a representative upload, download, directory listing and logout. Check the SFTP log for the session and inspect the destination file’s ownership and permissions.
- Test a second account if users have different home directories or authorization files.
- Only after successful tests should you apply the global
DenyAllpattern and remove or disable the old FTP listener.
Keep one administrative session available while making the cutover. If the SFTP service fails to start or users cannot log in after FTP is disabled, restore the previous listener or the last known-good login policy, correct the error, and repeat the staged test.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Troubleshoot common failures
The SFTP port does not accept connections
- Check that
mod_sftpis installed and loaded; an absent module means the virtual host cannot provide SFTP. - Look for a port collision with an existing SSH service or another ProFTPD listener. Move the SFTP virtual host to a documented free port when necessary.
- Review the active configuration and included files for a different
Portor virtual-host definition that overrides your assumption. - Check firewall rules for the exact port selected, not only for port 21.
The daemon starts, but the client reports a host-key problem
Confirm that every SFTPHostKey path points to the same host-key files used by OpenSSH for that address. Replacing or mixing keys makes the server appear to have changed identity. The directive is required, so also verify that the files exist and are readable by ProFTPD.
Password authentication fails
Review the account’s normal ProFTPD authentication configuration and the SFTP virtual host’s effective login policy. If the global DenyAll rule was added too early, only the nested SFTP AllowAll rule should permit logins inside the virtual host. An included file with another restrictive rule can also affect the result.
Public-key authentication fails
- Verify that
SFTPAuthorizedUserKeyspoints to the intended file for the account, including the home-directory expansion infile:~/.sftp/authorized_keys. - Confirm that the key was converted to RFC4716 format when required, using the documented
ssh-keygencommand. - Check the file and directory ownership and permissions, and make sure the daemon can read them.
- Read the SFTP log for the account-specific rejection reason before changing unrelated authentication settings.
Clients still connect to FTP
SFTP clients must be configured with the SFTP protocol and the SFTP port. A client set to FTP, explicit FTPS or implicit FTPS will negotiate a different protocol and cannot use the SFTP virtual host. If the migration is complete, verify that port 21 is no longer listening and that no included virtual host re-enables FTP logins.
Operational and security considerations
- Protect private host keys: the files named by
SFTPHostKeyidentify the server. Limit access to the daemon and administrators and retain backups securely. - Keep fingerprints consistent: reusing OpenSSH host keys avoids unnecessary “host changed” warnings for users who already know the server.
- Separate logs: an
SFTPLogfile makes SFTP authentication and transfer troubleshooting distinct from ordinary FTP logging. - Document the port: users and automation need the address, SFTP protocol selection and exact port, especially when an alternate port is used.
- Stage the change: run both listeners during migration, validate real client workflows, then enforce SFTP-only access.
- Review effective configuration: ProFTPD can include multiple files and virtual hosts. The security result depends on all active rules, not only the block you most recently edited.
Choosing SFTP or FTPS for existing clients
Choose SFTP when your clients support SSH2/SFTP and you want a single SSH transport and a single service port. It is usually simpler to describe in firewall policy because the session does not require FTP’s separate control and data channels.
Recommended Free Tools
Retain or choose FTPS when an application is tied to FTP semantics, expects FTP control/data channels, or lacks an SFTP implementation. FTPS is still FTP protected with TLS; it is not an alternate name for SFTP. The migration decision should therefore start with client compatibility, then account for the port and firewall design that each protocol requires.
Quick Recap
Configuration checklist
mod_sftpis installed and loaded.- The SFTP virtual host has a free, reachable port.
SFTPEngine onis set inside that virtual host.- At least one required
SFTPHostKeypoints to the OpenSSH host key used for the server identity. SFTPLogpoints to a writable directory.- Password or public-key authentication matches the intended account policy.
- Public keys use the required RFC4716 conversion and are stored in the path named by
SFTPAuthorizedUserKeys. - An SFTP client has completed a real login and file-transfer test.
- For an SFTP-only deployment, global
LOGINdenial and the SFTP virtual-host exception have been reviewed alongside every included configuration file. - The old FTP listener is disabled only after the replacement has been verified.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
