Select and Use TFTP Servers

Introduction

This document describes how to select and use a TFTP server.

Prerequisites

Requirements

There are no specific requirements for this document.

Components Used

This document is not restricted to specific software and hardware versions.

The information in this document was created from the devices in a specific lab environment. All of the devices used in this document started with a cleared (default) configuration. If your network is live, ensure that you understand the potential impact of any command.

Conventions

For more information on document conventions, refer to the Cisco Technical Tips Conventions.

TFTP Server Software Selection and Use

A TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol) server is a simple file transfer protocol commonly used in networking. It serves as a communication platform for transferring files between client devices and the server. The primary use of a TFTP server is to facilitate fast and efficient file transfers, typically in scenarios where simplicity and speed are more important than advanced security or authentication features.

Note: The Microsoft Windows-based TFTP server previously provided by Cisco Systems has been discontinued and is no longer supported by Cisco Systems. For more information on this, refer to the Cisco TFTP Server.

Locate TFTP Server Software

There are many freeware Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) servers on the Internet which are able to perform file transfers and help with other maintenance activities on Cisco devices, such as:

• Software Updates: TFTP servers are often employed to distribute firmware or operating system updates to network devices such as routers, switches, and so on.
• Network Device Configuration: TFTP servers are used to store configuration files for network devices, where network administrators can easily retrieve or update device configurations by transferring files to or from the TFTP server.
• Log and Data Collection: TFTP servers can be utilized to centralize the collection of logs, network captures, or other data generated by network devices or applications. This simplifies the process of retrieving and managing data for analysis or archival purposes.
• Network Testing and Troubleshooting: TFTP servers can aid in network testing and troubleshooting scenarios., as they allow users to transfer files to test connectivity, transfer speed, or verify network functionality.

Click here to see a list of alternatives to the TFTP software.

Choose Between the Alternatives

When you choose between TFTP software packages, consider these features:

• Security features — Security features can be an important consideration based on the location of the TFTP server in your network.

• Support large file transfers — Some Cisco devices require images that are over 1 GB in size. Check the size of your image and verify that the TFTP server you have in mind supports large transfers, if needed.

Configure a Cisco Router as a TFTP Server

To configure a router or a Flash memory device on the router as a TFTP server refer to the tftp-server section from the Cisco IOS Configuration Fundamentals Command Reference.

Note: Only registered Cisco users have access to internal Cisco tools and information.

Related Information

• Cisco Technical Support & Downloads