1. FTP

File transfer protocol (FTP) is one of the oldest but most efficient methods of transferring files on home networks. The above method provides a standard mechanism for sending files between a client and a server. For example, a client might be a laptop, and a personal computer or hard drive connected to a router would act as a server.

Fortunately, the FTP protocol is platform-independent and not limited to the operating system. Home users and companies used the above protocol to transfer files before inventing any graphical interface. If the router you are using is equipped with a USB port, it is possible to connect an external hard drive to the router and exchange information via the FTP protocol.

The above method is a simple solution to build a home server, but it is not as stable as using a personal computer. Using the FTP protocol, you must use a username and password to protect your data.

The FTP protocol transmits information by default without any authentication or encryption. This method does not pose a particular problem on home networks. Still, encryption and authentication mechanisms are required when using FTP on a more extensive network or intending to send data over the Internet.

2. SMB

The second way to transfer files on home networks is to use the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol. IBM developed the project but soon became a tool used by Windows PCs to communicate over a local area network. SMB is great for sending files between computers on a multi-infrastructure local area network. When you create a folder using Windows Explorer and allow other users to access the folder, you are using SMB.

SMB usage is not limited to Windows users, and even users of the Mac, Linux, and other Unix-based operating systems can use it. Apple names the SMB protocol implementation SMBX, and Linux uses it under Samba. In either case, laptops can act as a server or clients.

3. AFP

Apple File Protocol (AFP) The Apple Filing Protocol is Apple’s proprietary system for communicating with various MacOS computers. If you use different Apple devices, this protocol is the best and easiest way to exchange files. AFP is designed for Apple devices, but you can use AFP by purchasing home media equipment that can support the above protocol. If you do not use any Apple products, there is no reason to use the AFP protocol.

4. NFS

Network File System (NFS) is the name of the Network File System, a protocol used on Unix and Unix-based operating systems such as Linux. The power of the above protocol is in accessing different computers to a server. NFS provides data transfer speeds on systems that support the above protocol.

The only downside to the NFS protocol is the lack of transparency in running it, even when using Linux-based computers. Most of the commands are related to the command line, and you should also tell the PC to mount the network share so that a physical piece of hardware is connected to the device.

When sharing a folder, the function of the above protocol is that you feel that the folder is a broadcast of the file system. Setting up NFS is not difficult if you have no problem working with the command line.

5. SSH / SFTP

Secure Shell (SSH) protocol is a safe way to connect and manage remote computers. SSH is the best option if you plan to run a command on a server in an adjoining room or another city. SSH is not a transfer protocol alone and is used in conjunction with SFTP to provide a secure transfer protocol to the user. The above solution is protected, which establishes an encrypted connection.

While SFTP indicates that we are working with FTP over SSH, SFTP and FTP are not related. Using SFTP on a network is unnecessary unless someone has access to the network via Wi-Fi and intends to track your traffic.

For this reason, SFTP is a better option for transferring files to outdoor environments. If you are using a virtual private network connection to encrypt web traffic, you have the chance to use FTP for this purpose and install NFS Share to send data more securely. Note that if you use SFTP over a virtual private network, you are practically doing something again that is not necessary.

6. DLNA

The Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) protocol The Digital Living Network Alliance is a standard certificate rather than a transfer protocol. If you plan to stream files to your TV or game console, you need a server with DLNA support. To stream files using DLNA, you do not need to go to file management tools for sharing or accessing files, as the content published by DLNA requires proprietary software.

Plex is one of the best software in this field. Another good option is called Emby. These programs receive the files and transfer them in files to read DLNA-compatible devices. In this case, you can stream songs and video files from desktops, laptops, or storage devices under the network.

last word

All software code and information are stored in a single file on the systems. It is why there are different ways for users to transfer files. Each method has its applications, but some of them work better. For example, if you use Windows and want files to be shared easily between devices, SMB is a good option. If it uses Apple equipment, AFP is a good option. If files are to be exchanged between two Linux-based desktops, SMB is a good solution.

NFS is ideal if you are looking for a permanent connection between desktop computers and Linux-based servers. If you are looking to exchange information on a multi-platform infrastructure, FTP is a good option. Use SFTP if data security is essential when transferring the file.