SFTP for Container Workloads: When & Why

Published {$created} by Carsten Blum

Containerized applications are increasingly prevalent, and managing their persistent data often involves external storage. While cloud object stores like AWS S3 and Azure Blob Storage are popular choices, SFTP offers a compelling alternative, particularly when specific requirements demand greater control or tighter integration with existing infrastructure. This guide explores when SFTP-based remote storage for container workloads is the right architectural choice.

When SFTP Shines: Control, Integration & Compliance

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) builds upon the robust foundation of FTP but adds a critical layer: SSH encryption. This inherent security, coupled with its relatively simple protocol, makes it a predictable and reliable option. Several scenarios benefit directly from SFTP integration:

• Regulatory Compliance: Certain industries mandate strict control over data location and access. SFTP allows you to host your remote storage for container workloads within a specified geographic region and precisely control authentication methods. You can leverage key-based authentication using protocols like SSH-ED25519, enhancing security. Review our features page for more information on available authentication methods.
• Existing SFTP Infrastructure: Many organizations already manage SFTP servers for various purposes. Integrating container workloads with existing SFTP infrastructure avoids the need for complex migrations and leverages established workflows.
• Simplicity & Predictability: SFTP's straightforward protocol reduces complexity compared to object storage APIs. This can be advantageous for organizations with limited resources or those prioritizing stability and predictability.
• Integration with Legacy Systems: SFTP often offers better compatibility with legacy applications that may not readily integrate with object storage APIs.
• Cost Considerations: While object storage can be economical at scale, SFTP can be cost-effective for smaller workloads or when factoring in the overhead of managing object storage dependencies. Our pricing page outlines various plans.

SFTP vs. Object Storage: A Brief Comparison

Object storage excels in scenarios involving massive scalability and unstructured data. SFTP, however, retains advantages in specific use cases related to container workloads:

• File-Based Data: SFTP is fundamentally designed for file-based storage, mirroring the directory structure and providing granular access control at the file level. This aligns well with container workloads where data is frequently managed as discrete files.
• Consistent Performance: While object storage performance can be variable, SFTP offers more predictable performance, especially when combined with a CDN like we use for static downloads.
• Reduced Dependency: SFTP minimizes dependencies on external cloud provider APIs, providing greater autonomy and reducing vendor lock-in.

Leveraging ftpGrid for SFTP-Based Container Workloads

ftpGrid provides a managed SFTP solution specifically designed for ease of use and reliability. Our platform supports multiple accounts and offers features such as quota management, audit logging, and API access, allowing seamless integration with your container orchestration tools. Consider ftpGrid for scenarios like video surveillance cloud storage, backup storage, or even as a WeTransfer alternative for businesses where tighter control is paramount. For a quick start, refer to our quick start guide and explore our features.