I_want_to_use_a_passphrase_or_key_file_with_an_FTP_server._How_do_I_do_that_

I want to use a passphrase (or key file) with an FTP server. How do I do that?

Issue

I am using an FTP server with Connect. To make it more secure, we are using a passphrase with the FTP server login process. How do I set up Connect to use the passphrase so the login is successful?

 

Explanation

When you use an interface to an FTP server, you would use a passphrase or key file for secure authentication, especially when using SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol), which is different from standard FTP. Using a passphrase or key file can protect sensitive file transfers, for example, when transferring confidential data (payroll, invoices, and so on). A key file with a passphrase ensures that only authorized users can connect and transfer files. 

You can use a key file and/or passphrase in an FTP client to:

  • Authenticate securely without passwords

  • Enable automation with enhanced protection

  • Meet security standards and compliance requirements

 

 

A passphrase, 

  • used with a key file to grant access to encrypted files. 

  • must be entered to decrypt the encrypted files and used from authentication. 

 

 

A key file (also known as a private key file), 

  • may be used to encrypt data being transferred to the FTP site. 

  • is stored locally on your computer in c:\users\yourname\.ssh\id_rsa.

  • may be paired with a public key that's installed on the server in ~/.ssh/authorized_keys.

 

 

Solution

To fix this issue,

  • download and install version 2025.08 or later. 

 

 

To add a passphrase and/or key file

1. Open Connect System Management > Organization > FTP Interfaces. 

2. Select the third party interface. 

3. Add the following information to the FTP third party interface. 

 

FTP Interfaces, Key file and passphrase

 

 

  • Key file. In most FTP applications, the key file is something you provide (usually generated using a key file generator, such as, PUTTYgen or WinSCP. Some FTP applications, such as Filezilla, WinSCP, and Cyberduck can generate a private key for you. 

  • Passphrase. Generated when the key file is created, the passphrase allows you to connect to a server using a key file. If you are using a key file, you will need to enter a passphrase. If you have lost the passphrase, you will need to generate a new private key.

 

 

4. Click Save  (CTRL+S). 

 

 

 

 

Copyright © 2025 Caselle, Incorporated. All rights reserved.

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