OpenSSH SFTP Server

Self-Hosted

Secure, built-in SFTP server for encrypted file transfers

Overview

A secure, open-source SFTP server integrated with OpenSSH, enabling encrypted file transfers over the SSH protocol. It supports password/public key authentication, chroot jail isolation for users, and granular access controls via the sshd_config file. Pre-installed on most Unix-like systems (Linux, macOS), it requires minimal setup—enable the SFTP subsystem, configure user permissions, and optionally enforce chroot restrictions. Ideal for self-hosted file transfer needs, it leverages OpenSSH’s robust security features and integrates seamlessly with existing system user accounts.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  openssh_sftp_server:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: openssh-sftp-server
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

End-to-end encryption via SSH protocol
Chroot jail support for user isolation
Public key/password authentication options
Integration with system user accounts
Granular access controls via sshd_config

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is OpenSSH SFTP Server hard to install?

It’s pre-installed on most Unix-like systems (Linux, macOS). For systems without it, install via package managers (e.g., `apt-get install openssh-server` on Debian/Ubuntu) — minimal setup involves enabling the SFTP subsystem in `sshd_config`.

? Is it a good alternative to proprietary SFTP servers?

Yes—its open-source license, robust SSH security, and system integration make it reliable. However, it lacks graphical management tools found in some proprietary options, so it’s better for users comfortable with command-line configuration.

? Is it completely free?

Absolutely. OpenSSH SFTP Server is released under the BSD license, meaning it’s free to use, modify, and distribute without any costs.

Top Alternatives

SolarWinds SFTP Server Search Google

IIS SFTP (Microsoft) Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category File Transfer & Synchronization

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Pre-installed on most Unix-like systems
⊕ No additional cost (open-source)
⊕ Robust security (SSH encryption, access controls)
⊕ Lightweight and low resource usage

Cons

⊖ Command-line only (no graphical interface)
⊖ Requires SSH configuration knowledge for advanced setup
⊖ Lacks built-in web UI for file management