# Connect to SFTP

### Introduction

Couchdrop can be connected to an external SFTP server in just a few steps. Once connected, you can seamlessly upload and download files directly to the external SFTP platform. You can also take advantage of Couchdrop’s automation features and inbound transfer methods - such as mailboxes and upload links - to streamline and simplify data transfers.

### Requirements

To connect to an external SFTP server with Couchdrop you will need:

* The hostname or IP address and port number for the external server
* A username and password for the external server or a private key

### Configuration Steps

1. In Couchdrop; Click **+ Create -> Connect to Partners/Providers** or **+ Add Connection** from the Connections Tab
2. Select SFTP Server from the list of available connections
3. Provide the configuration details as listed above
4. Click Test Connection
5. Choose a subfolder from the folder selector
6. Click **Save Settings**

{% hint style="info" %}
Most SFTP providers use **port 22.** If you are unsure - try this port first and if it fails chat with your provider. 
{% endhint %}

### How it works

Similar to all connections in Couchdrop - all external SFTP connections appear as folders in Couchdrop. Couchdrop can transfer to and from the external SFTP server directly or through automations. 

{% hint style="success" %}
External SFTP providers appear as Virtual Folders in Couchdrop. We recommend learning about Virtual Folders [here](https://docs.couchdrop.io/connections/virtual-folders)
{% endhint %}

**Supported features with external SFTP servers**

| Feature                   | Supported |
| ------------------------- | --------- |
| Inbound SFTP              | Yes       |
| Inbound Mailboxes         | Yes       |
| Upload Links              | Yes       |
| Inbound Web hooks (https) | Yes       |
| Inbound AS2               | Yes       |
| Inbound S3 (S3 Gateway)   | Yes       |
| File Actions (copy, move) | Yes       |
| Transfer Automations      | Yes       |

###  Frequently Asked Questions

<details>

<summary>Do you support RSA key based authentication</summary>

Yes - Couchdrop can use key based authentication to connect to external SFTP providers. You can upload a private key when configuring the connection.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can we schedule a copy from one SFTP server to the cloud</summary>

Yes - this is Couchdrop's bread and butter. You can configure a connection to an external SFTP server - select a folder and then automate a transfer using a Scheduled Transfer Automation that polls the SFTP server for new files and then moves them. &#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can Couchdrop provide Static IPs that we can whitelist</summary>

Yes - Contact our support team to request static IPs.&#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do you support legacy ciphers and keys</summary>

Yes - we can support some restricted legacy ciphers. Contact our team if you run into connectivity issues.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Are SFTP connections encrypted with Couchdrop</summary>

Absolutely - SFTP as a protocol is very secure and uses asymetric SSL encryption.&#x20;

</details>

### Common issues and errors

<details>

<summary>Access denied</summary>

Access denied when browsing, uploading or downloading files generally means that you do not have adequate permissions with the external platform. Contact the external providers support team to make sure you have permissions on there service.&#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>Timeout</summary>

A timeout normally occurs when there a firewall preventing access. Check with the external provider and talk to our support team about static IPs for the external vendor to whitelist.&#x20;

</details>