ARCHIVED: When using FTP, why might programs and files fail to transfer properly?
Note: When you have a choice between using secure FTP (SFTP) or FTP, you should choose SFTP. For more information, see Use SFTP to transfer files
When using FTP, files in any format other than plain ASCII
text (e.g., executable files, compressed files, or images) must be
transferred as binary files. To do this with most command
line FTP clients (e.g., when running FTP from the DOS or
Unix shell prompt), at the ftp>
prompt, enter:
binary
With Kermit, at the Kermit prompt, enter:
set file type binary
With Zmodem, use the -b
flag to specify a
binary transfer.
Graphic FTP clients like Transmit and Hummingbird FTP typically have options that allow you to specify a binary transfer.
Be aware that you usually cannot transfer and run a program from one operating system to another. For example, you can't run a DOS program in Unix, nor a program compiled for IRIX in AIX. Also, some programs will not run unless you also transfer all of their support programs, libraries, and preference files.
Additionally, if the server only accepts SFTP connections, attempts to use FTP to transfer files will fail.
At Indiana University, for personal or departmental Linux or Unix systems support, see Get help for Linux or Unix at IU.
This is document aask in the Knowledge Base.
Last modified on 2018-01-18 09:26:55.