FTP: FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is a method used to quickly transfer data between computers linked together on a local area network. Typically, an FTP is set up using a piece of third-party software to both create and secure the data connection for users.
Successfully connecting to an FTP server can be accomplished in a number of ways. Graphical FTP clients are quite popular because they are easy to use, whether you're a tech genius or a complete layman. After logging into an FTP server, you need only drag and drop files in the interface to transfer files to and from the FTP.
Command-line FTP setups are also quite common, though they are built more for those with an extensive knowledge of Windows, Linux, or OSX and their command structures. Like all methods of accessing an FTP, a username and password is used to access the server. After accessing the FTP, command-line prompts are used to both retrieve and store information.
An FTP can also be accessed through a web browser, much in the same way websites are accessed. The unique FTP address can be typed into the URL section just like the more common web address. Although accessing an FTP through a web browser can be convenient, in that it requires no knowledge of an operating system's command-lines nor a third-party piece of software to access a graphical interface -- most stay away from using a browser for access, due to shaky connectivity and the added threat of security exploits.