FTP Encryption

[TeddyTed]

Hello everyone,

I've got a quick question.....
I support a small business in the health care industry, and they are getting ready to do business other another healthcare agency which requires small file transfers via FTP.
One of the requirement is that we provide a copy of our "public key for the FTP account".

This is the information as stated on the application document:

***Please remember to include your Public Key for the FTP account request. You will need to email the Key along with your completed questionnaire form.
Your account cannot be processed without it***

My understanding of this is that we will have to purchase an encryption key -presumably a public and a private matching keys.
I've been looking online and I haven't been able to find encryption key/certificates specifically for FTP. I see ssl certs for websites. Is that the same thing?
If so, any recommendations ?

I've looked at the following so far :

https://www.symantec.com/ssl-certificates
https://www.thawte.com/ssl/index.html




Thanks

TB

[TonyT]

No purchases necessary.

I imagine Windows server operating systems are used at both ends. If so,
see this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTPS
and this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_key_certificate

else use SSH (sftp) for file transfers, which is more secure.

[YeOldeStonecat]

If the other agency allows you to use a self signed cert...most clients can generate them
http://ask-leo.com/how_do_i_create_a..._with_ssh.html

Is this "MyAbility"?

[TonyT]

Also, if you cannot use a self-signed cert, then you'll probably have to purchase a Class 2 cert from someone like Verisign for about $400.00/year.

[TeddyTed]

If the other agency allows you to use a self signed cert...most clients can generate them
http://ask-leo.com/how_do_i_create_a..._with_ssh.html

Is this "MyAbility"?

Thanks for the suggestions guys ! I will see if the self signed cert is good enough. If not i'll will go with a cert authority as suggested.


Thanks again !

TB