File transfer: SFTP, SCP and Rsync
The file transfer service lets you transfer copies of files between your computer and your University filestore.
To use the file transfer service you will need a compatible client program on your computer. We recommend using WinSCP.
Key features
- Supports SFTP, SCP and Rsync.
- There are no limits to the number or size of files you can transfer.
Access instructions
- Connect to a host using a compatible file transfer protocol.
- Log in with your York username and password. Duo two-factor authentication is required.
- WinSCP is installed in our computer labs.
- For other University managed devices running Windows, you can install this software from the Software Center.
- For other devices, you can either download and install WinSCP (winscp.net) or access it through the virtual desktop service (VDS).
Available to staff and students
You can use this service on University-managed and personal devices.
App-based
Compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux.
Funded by the University
There isn't a cost to you for standard use.
Additional information
| Protocol | Host name | Port number | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SFTP | sftp.york.ac.uk | 22 |
Stands for “Secure File Transfer Protocol”. It is secure because it encrypts your data during its transmission, meaning anyone spying on your network traffic cannot take a copy of your data |
| SCP | scp.york.ac.uk | 22 |
Stands for “Secure Copy”. It encrypts your data while it is in transit between your computer and the central file servers. |
| Rsync | sftp.york.ac.uk | 22 |
Stands for “Remote Sync”. Securely copy folders and files. |
Access instructions
- Connect to a host using a compatible file transfer protocol.
- Log in with your York username and password. Duo two-factor authentication is required.
- WinSCP is installed in our computer labs.
- For other University managed devices running Windows, you can install this software from the Software Center.
- For other devices, you can either download and install WinSCP (winscp.net) or access it through the virtual desktop service (VDS).
Guides and help
How-to guides and set up
Training and best practice
- The speed of your network connection will determine how long it takes to transfer your files.
- Some home broadband services have a significantly lower upload speed compared with their download speed. You should therefore allow plenty of time to transfer large files.
- You need to log on to the service before you can transfer your files. This means it's not suitable for transferring files to other people at the University (because you don't know their password, and they don't know yours) or at other sites. You can use the DropOff and Deposit services for this instead.
- If you're transferring files that are too large to fit in your home directory, you can temporarily store them in /usr/transfer. Any files stored in /usr/transfer will be automatically deleted after 72 hours.
Contact for support
If you're experiencing technical issues and need advice, please contact IT Services.
Service commitments
The following policies apply to all IT services provided by the University.
Availability
- This is a live service, available 24/7.
- Check the status of this service and any planned maintenance.
Support
- This service is managed by IT Services.
- We are responsible for monitoring, identifying and fixing faults.
- Support is available during our opening hours.
Standards
- Our service performance and standards have been produced in consultation with our customers, and we monitor the delivery, performance and availability of facilities and services.
We appreciate feedback as it helps us review and continually improve our service.
Page last reviewed: 9 September 2024