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# Prepare file for connection FTP/SFTP

A **FTP/SFTP** connection in BulkFlow allows you to directly retrieve files from an FTP or SFTP server for data import, export, update, or deletion. Follow the steps below to set up your connection.

# Step 1: Enter Connection Credentials

To connect to your FTP/SFTP server, you need to provide the following details:

### Required Fields

* **Host URL**: The address of your FTP/SFTP server (e.g., `ftp.example.com` or `sftp.example.com`).
* **Username**: Your FTP/SFTP account username. If you don’t have one, ask your server administrator.
* **Password**: The password associated with your FTP/SFTP account.
* **Directory Path**: The exact folder path where your files are stored on the server. Example: `/data/files/`. If left blank, Bulkflow will use the server's default directory.

### Advanced Settings (Required for SFTP Connections)

If you are connecting via **SFTP**, you may need to configure additional settings:

* **Port**: The port used by your FTP/SFTP server. The default is **21** for FTP and **22** for SFTP. Check with your server administrator if unsure.
* **SSH Key** (for SFTP only): If your SFTP server requires authentication via an SSH key instead of a password, upload your private key file here.

# Step 2: Test Connection

Once you have entered all the required information:

1. Click **Test Connection** to verify access.
* If the test fails, check the error message and correct any incorrect credentials or settings.
* If the error indicates missing advanced settings, update the Port or SSH Key fields accordingly.
* If the test is successful, Bulkflow will detect your file type and display the necessary configuration fields.

# Step 3: Configure File Settings

* Adjust your file settings to ensure Bulkflow correctly interprets your data.
* If your file contains headers, make sure the first row has column names.
* If needed, set the **header row number** in Bulkflow.

# Step 4: Proceed to Next Step

Click **Next Step** to move forward to [Step 2: Field Mapping](https://bulkflow.crisp.help/en/article/step-2-field-mapping-products-j9bpf3/)