FTP Server Setup and Configuration Guide
Installation and Configuration for Services
Introduction
A protocol is needed to make operations transparent to the user, without requiring knowledge of the file systems used by networked computers, giving the impression of local operation. The FTP protocol handles this task by establishing a double TCP connection:
- Control Connection: Typically uses server port 21 for accessing and specifying client operations.
- Data Connection: Uses server port 20 for transferring files to or from the server.
An FTP server allows two access methods:
- Private Access: The client provides a username and password for server access.
- Public Access: The client uses a generic “anonymous” account without a password. An email address is typically used as the password but isn’t mandatory.
Filesystem access depends on the user’s assigned privileges and the server’s file system permissions. The file and subdirectory hierarchy available to users resides in a directory on the FTP server called “site” or “ftp site”.
FTP is not a secure service. User authentication and data transfer are unencrypted and susceptible to interception. For secure transfers, SSH is recommended.
TFTP is an FTP variant that doesn’t require authentication. It’s used for tasks like booting diskless workstations.
Remote Terminal Service
This service allows users to access a remote machine from their local machine, bridging geographical distance. Regardless of interaction method, user authentication is required. Interaction occurs in two main ways:
- Command Line
- Graphical Interface (GUI): Accessing the remote desktop with keyboard and mouse.
Client interactions are processed by the remote server and displayed on the local terminal.
IRC (Internet Relay Chat)
IRC enables real-time communication over networks like the internet. Key features include:
- Multi-user conversations
- Channel-based discussions (virtual rooms)
- User anonymity
IRC follows a client-server model. Messages are routed through a server for processing. IRC client programs handle:
- Server connection/disconnection
- Sending user messages to the server
- Receiving and displaying server messages
Users must register on an IRC server before connecting and sending messages. Discussions are organized into channels with unique names and descriptive “topics”. Users are identified by nicknames (nicks).
Text typed in a channel is sent to all connected users along with the sender’s nick. Message reception is automatic. Users can connect to multiple channels simultaneously.
1. Server Installation and Configuration
Similar to HTTP, FTP software installation on Windows NT Server, 2000 Server, 2000 Advanced Server, XP Professional, and 2003 Server uses the IIS utility. Pre-configure TCP/IP access before installation.
Installing the Software
To check for IIS, consult the “Services” page in Network Properties (Windows NT) or the Windows Components installation tool (Windows XP, 2003). In Windows 2000, look for “Microsoft Internet Information Server”. In Windows XP, it appears as “Internet Information Services”. In Windows 2003, check “Application Server” details for IIS.
If IIS isn’t installed:
- Click “Add” (Windows NT) or select the IIS component (Windows 2000, XP). In Windows 2003, select “Application Server”, click “Details”, and check “Internet Information Services (IIS)”.
- During installation, select the necessary IIS components, including Internet Service Manager and FTP Service.
- For Windows NT, specify the folders containing the service files. Use NTFS for better security. In Windows 2000, XP, and 2003, these folders are configured during service setup.
Service Setup
When creating an FTP site, specify the following:
- Site description
- Server IP address and port (default: port 21)
- User isolation settings (restrict access to home directories or allow access to any directory)
- Service folder
- User access permissions