FTP Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between FTP, SFTP and FTPS?

Each is a different type of connection to a file server:

• FTP (File Transfer Protocol): The FTP connection is widely supported and is included in Windows and most browsers. However, it is unencrypted and secured only by a user name and password. The other two connection types encrypt data for greater security. Chrome River does not provide access to the file server via FTP.
• SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol): SFTP connects over SSH (Secure Shell), which uses public-key encryption to safely encrypt all data being transferred. SFTP connections will automatically generate this public key when connecting, but customers may choose to provide Chrome River with a specific public key. SFTP is a good choice for most customers because it is commonly supported and requires fewer port exceptions than FTPS. It is especially good for customers who want to offer users automated access, since registering a public key with Chrome River removes the need for log-in credentials like a user name and password.
• FTPS (File Transfer Protocol with SSL): FTPS is an encrypted alternative to FTP that uses SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption instead of a public key. This is the same authentication method that most websites, VoIP services and email servers use, and it involves symmetric key encryption and certificate verification. Chrome River customers who use SSO (Single Sign-On) may prefer this method for their users.

Do I need a different user name and password for FTP, SFTP and FTPS?

FTP, FTPS and SFTP are simply different means of connecting to the server. The same user name, password, and address/hostname is used regardless of the method being used to access the server.

What is the address/hostname for the file server?

• ftp.chromeriver.com
• QA/UAT: qa-ftp.eu1.chromeriver.com
  QA/UAT: qa-ftp.ca1.chromeriver.com
  QA/UAT: qa-ftp.us2.chromeriver.com
• Prod: ftp.eu1.chromeriver.com
  Prod: ftp.ca1.chromeriver.com
  Prod: ftp.us2.chromeriver.com

Why isn't the feed I sent to QA/UAT loading?

Be sure that it was sent using the hostname for QA/UAT, not the one for Prod. See What is the address/hostname for the file server? above.

How do I set up a public key with Chrome River?

Open a ticket with the Chrome River Help Desk to let us know the public key you'd like to use. We'll reply to your ticket when we've added the key to our system so that you may verify it.

Which port do I use to connect to the file server?

• SFTP: Port 22
• FTPS: Port 990 (ensure you can also connect to Ports 10800-11000)

Port 21 is available for certain versions of FTPS if necessary, but it will no longer accept any unsecure FTP connection. We encourage you to use Port 22 instead.

How do I connect to the file server?

• Windows: You will need a third-party client because Windows only supports unsecure FTP connections. Some well-supported SFTP clients include FileZilla (multiplatform), CyberDuck (Mac/Windows) and WinSCP (Windows Only).
• Mac/Unix/Linux: Use the Terminal/Command Line. If you prefer a graphical interface, use one of the clients listed above.

Some customers prefer to use PSFTP or their own custom connection scripts. Any client that can connect via either SFTP or FTPS will work.

I'm still having trouble connecting—what do I do now?

• Check that the program you're using to connect to the server supports a secured connection, such as SFTP; if you are using a web browser, this is likely the issue.
• Check with your internal IT department to be sure your system is not having issues.
• Is your network's firewall is blocking the connection to the server?
• Are your log-in credentials correct?
• Are you connecting to the correct address?
• Are you connecting to the correct port?
• Are you connecting using FTP or another connection type we do not support?

If the issue persists, please open a case via the Chrome River Help Desk.

How long are FTP files kept on the QA/UAT and Production sites?

Feed, export and other files are kept for 90 days before being deleted.