How To Connect to FTP/SFTP in Dolphin

Dolphin is a versatile file manager that comes with a wide range of features, including the ability to connect to FTP/SFTP servers. This article will guide you through the process of connecting to FTP/SFTP in Dolphin using various methods.

What is FTP/SFTP?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol, a standard network protocol used for transferring files from one host to another over a TCP-based network, such as the internet. SFTP, on the other hand, stands for SSH File Transfer Protocol, or Secure File Transfer Protocol, and provides file access, file transfer, and file management functionalities over any reliable data stream. It is more secure than FTP as it employs SSH (Secure Shell) to keep the data private and secure during the transfer.

Connecting to FTP/SFTP in Dolphin

Option 1: Using the Dolphin Interface

1. Open Dolphin and click on the “Network” link on the left-hand side.
2. In the network window, click on the symbol for adding a network folder.
3. Select the FTP option from the list and enter the necessary information such as the name for your network folder, username, and server name (or IP address).
4. If you have secure SSL encryption activated on your server, you can use the secure shell (SSH) option instead.
5. Save and connect, and a pop-up will appear for the password.

Option 2: Using the Navigation Breadcrumbs

1. Click on the navigation breadcrumbs above the file list in Dolphin or press Ctrl+L.
2. Type the following format: sftp://{username[:password]}@{domain}/{path}.
3. Replace {username}, {password}, {domain}, and {path} with the appropriate values.
4. Note that if your username or password contains an @ symbol, this method may not work.

Option 3: Using the “fish” Protocol

Dolphin implements SFTP as “fish”. To use this method:

1. Use the format fish://{username[:password]}@{domain:port}/{path} to connect.
2. Replace {username}, {password}, {domain}, {port}, and {path} with the appropriate values.
3. This method may be necessary if you need to change the port or if the standard SFTP protocol does not work.

Option 4: Creating a Config File

1. Create a config file in the path ~/.ssh/config.
2. Configure the file with the necessary details, including the host name, host address, username, port (if applicable), and the path to the private key file.
3. Save the file and then type sftp://<any-host-name-of-your-choice> in the Dolphin address bar to connect using the private key file.

Option 5: Installing kio-extras Package

If Dolphin is not supporting SFTP by default, you can try installing the kio-extras package. This package may add SFTP support to Dolphin. To install it:

1. Open the terminal.
2. Type the command sudo apt install kio-extras and press enter.
3. Enter your password when prompted.
4. Once the installation is complete, try connecting to the SFTP server again.

Option 6: Using the “fish” Protocol in Dolphin

1. Right-click in Dolphin to add an entry.
2. Type fish://<ip> in the entry field, similar to how it is done in Nautilus.

Remember to replace any placeholders in the examples with the actual values specific to your setup.

Conclusion

Connecting to FTP/SFTP servers in Dolphin is a straightforward process once you understand the various methods available. Whether you prefer using the Dolphin interface, navigation breadcrumbs, the “fish” protocol, a config file, or installing the kio-extras package, you have plenty of options at your disposal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to successfully connect to your FTP/SFTP server using Dolphin.