FTP is one the best tools (it's that STAIR thing again) developed for the Internet.  While many people use the terminology of moving files from one place to another, the protocol is actually moving a copy of your file from one machine to another.

You will need to install the Communications Software aspect of IUWare.  Once installed, you will find "Communications Software 3.0" through Start - Programs.  Many of you have already installed this for telnet.

There are many different FTP programs.  However, they all are built on the same concepts.

Local Directory - This is the directory listing - showing both your folders and files - of the computer you are working on.

Remote Directory - This is the directory listing - both folders and files - of the server or computer you are connecting to.  In this case it will be DS9.

Connection - A connection will need to be established via the Internet between the client machine (the one you are working on) and the server (DS9.)

ASCII vs. Binary - Look for the tool which will allow you to transfer data either ASCII or Binary.  General rule of thumb ... .txt and .html file will be sent ASCII and graphics are sent Binary.  

There are two basic formats for FTP programs.  The first one is the program on IUWare.  The second is called  WS-FTP and is used in the lab.

WS-FTP

You must first be connected to the Internet.  You can use a Internet Service Provider or you may use the PPP connection through IUPUI.  

(See the PPP Installation on the IUWare.  Also, you will need to have a Cord account.  Check with the UITS Support ... there is a link on my main page.)

Once you are connected to the Internet, open up FTP.  This can be accomplished by Start - Programs - Communication Software 3.0 - FTP - 

When entering FTP, you will be prompted to open a session.  This will connect you.  Similar to Telnet, you need to set your initial information.  Once set it, you can simply select in the future.

You will need to supply the Server Name, User Name and Password.  The server name is ds9.cs.iupui.edu.

If you are using WS-FTP, it will also ask you for a profile name.  This is just a descriptive name.  Host name is the same as server name in IU Ware.

Your request for the File Transfer Protocol is then sent through the Internet.  Once connected to DS9, you will receive a second screen.  This screen is the file directory to your files on DS9. 

Unlike Telnet, you can use your mouse!!

Remember ... you are only copying files from the client machine to the server.  Make sure you have ASCII or Binary selected ... whichever one is most appropriate to the file you are transferring.  

Open the correct directory within BOTH locations.  For example, for Lab 5 you are going to place graphics and a couple of .txt files in your public_html directory.  Double click on the public_html folder to open it.  Go back to your local directory select (click on) the file and drag it to the right side of the remote window.  Once it is copied, it will show up.

What's really cool about all of this is that not only can you put files on the server, you can also get files and move them to your local machine.   Floppies ... who needs them with FTP!?!

Okay, I'll let you in on a little secret.  Most FTP programs will set the correct permissions.  Therefore, when you transfer the file over, the program will set files to 644.  However, I always check via telnet that the files are set to the correct permission.  This is a safeguard you must do!

Can you click on the little X in the upper right hand corner to close FTP?  Yes, but let's do a correct file-close.  This will give a clean disconnect from DS9.