WebDAV vs FTP in 2026: Which Protocol Should You Actually Use

Описание и применение

WebDAV в 2026 году превосходит FTP по скорости работы с небольшими файлами, обеспечивает интеграцию как локального диска, более безопасную аутентификацию и упрощённую настройку через брандмауэр, делая его предпочтительным выбором для большинства современных задач.

Задача

Choosing a file transfer protocol that balances performance, security, and usability for modern workflows.

Результат

WebDAV outperforms FTP for small files, matches FTP for large files, offers native local‑drive integration, stronger authentication, and easier firewall handling, making it the preferred protocol for most modern use cases.

Рабочий процесс

• Set up vsftpd with TLS on port 21 and passive range.
• Set up Apache with mod_dav over HTTPS on port 443.
• Benchmark upload/download of 1 GB single file, 1,000 small files, and random 4 KB reads.
• Compare throughput, IOPS, and authentication models.
• Evaluate firewall/NAT behavior and client tooling.
• Decide on protocol based on use case.
• If WebDAV, install client (ScsDriver on Windows, built‑in clients on macOS/Linux/iOS/Android).
• If FTP, use for one‑off large transfers or legacy equipment.

Доказательства

Upload 1 GB single file: FTP (TLS) 78 MB/s, WebDAV (HTTPS) 76 MB/s

Источник

Upload 1,000 small files: FTP 4 MB/s, WebDAV 22 MB/s

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WebDAV is a file system protocol. It gives a remote server a file system interface.

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FTP is a disaster for modern networks. It needs port 21 for control and a separate random port for data.

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If you have not set up either yet, here is the path I recommend: Pick a WebDAV‑capable server. Nextcloud self‑host is the most popular; Synology, QNAP, and most NAS devices have it built in.

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