Which protocol is used to securely transfer files over the internet?

SFTP, or Secure File Transfer Protocol, is designed specifically for secure file transfer over the internet. It operates over a secure connection, typically utilizing SSH (Secure Shell) to encrypt the data being transferred, which safeguards it from eavesdropping, tampering, or interception during transmission. This encryption makes SFTP a more secure alternative to standard file transfer protocols.

In contrast, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) does not provide encryption; therefore, any data sent using FTP can be easily intercepted. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is also not secure by itself, as it transmits data in plaintext. Telnet is a protocol used for remote communication but lacks security features, making it unsuitable for secure file transfers. Thus, SFTP is the preferred choice for securely transferring files over the internet.