What is FTP and how can I use it to transfer files?

Mention FTP and most people look at you apprehensively, concerned you're about to bombard them with tech-talk. Yet whether they know it or not, they probably use it all the time.

File Transfer Protocol, or FTP, is just another way of exchanging files over the internet. Its most common use is for downloading files, and anyone who's bought MP3s online will have used it at some point. Of course, downloading music is just one use; it's in the workplace that FTP really comes into its own.

The spurious 10MB limit on email attachments will have caused most of us to curse modern technology at one time or other. What we need is a middleman, happy to take the strain of bulky file-sizes and wait around for their intended recipient to collect. Luckily, we have this middleman in the form of FTP sites.

Like normal websites, FTP sites require a specific server to host files "awaiting collection". Most companies have one linked to their existing website infrastructure, but another option is to register for an online server like Biscu.com. To upload and download files you'll also need an FTP client installed on your computer. These are usually cheap or free, and a Google search will reveal plenty to choose from.

Once equipped with your FTP client and server, you'll be able to generate usernames and passwords so people can retrieve files securely - and you can get back on friendly terms with your beleaguered email application.