|
|
Internet Tools
That Support On-line Project-Based Learning
FTP
(File Transfer Protocol)
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used when you need to move files from
one computer to another. Whether it is between the computer at the office,
school, home, or even from a computer in another city, an FTP client and
server are required. However, to move your own files, accounts on both
computers are necessary. To utilize this function, you would either type
"ftp" at the command prompt, or click on the FTP icon on the computer
you are using to see if the client is present. If you can access the account
on the computer that is available, you're home free.
The Benefits of FTP:
FTP can help you in circumstances when you are away from your personal
computer and account but need to move files back and forth between your
own computer and the computer you are using at any given location. For
example, if you are at a conference preparing for your presentation and
you discover that you left several important handouts at home, FTP can
access your account and transfer your files to you. All you need to do
is gain access to a local computer, telnet to your account and find the
files. Teleneting to your account will let you see the files, but it will
not let you get them. You need to FTP the files to the computer where
you are. Imagine, you can then print out your handouts for your presentation
within the time frame needed to transfer the files. If your handouts include
graphics or something other than text, you can still FTP them. You just
need to pay attention to the transfer mode settings: ascii, or binary.
Basically, the former is for text only while the latter will transfer
graphics, sound, moving pictures, and non-Roman character sets. When in
doubt, try it and see if it works. If not, go back and change the settings
and try again.
The other option for FTP is using an anonymous FTP server. Quite a common
practice on the Internet for downloading shareware, freeware, or any sort
of file that someone has made available to the general public. Usually,
the login name is "anonymous" and entering a password is not necessary.
You may, however, need to enter your e-mail address as the password.
Depending on how large the files are on these anonymous servers, they
may be stored in a compressed format (ZIP for MS-DOS or Windows environments
and Stuff-it for the Macintosh platform). You will need the decompression
software to open the files once you have ftp'd them to your computer.
It's not as complicated as it may sound.
>Next
Page
|
View the teacher message board: