Best Way to Move Large Files to a VPS: Quick and Easy Tips

The best way to move large files to a VPS is using SCP or Rsync. Both methods ensure secure and efficient transfers.
Transferring large files to a Virtual Private Server (VPS) can be challenging without the right tools. Secure Copy Protocol (SCP) and Rsync are two highly recommended methods. SCP uses SSH to transfer files securely, maintaining data integrity. Rsync, on the other hand, offers efficient syncing and copying of files by only transferring changes.
Both tools are command-line based and provide robust performance for large file transfers. By choosing either SCP or Rsync, you ensure your files reach the VPS quickly and securely, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity. These methods are particularly useful for developers, system administrators, and anyone needing reliable file transfer solutions.

Choosing The Right Transfer Method
Transferring large files to a VPS can be tricky. Selecting the right method can save time. It also ensures data security. Explore the best methods below.
Ftp Vs. Sftp
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a popular method for file transfer. It is fast and easy to use. But, it lacks security. Data is transferred in plain text. This makes it vulnerable to attacks.
SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is a more secure option. It encrypts the data during transfer. This protects the files from unauthorized access. SFTP is a better choice for sensitive data.
Here is a quick comparison:
FTP | SFTP |
---|---|
Fast | Secure |
Easy to use | Encrypted transfer |
Not secure | Better for sensitive data |
Rsync Benefits
Rsync is another effective method. It is a utility for file transfer and synchronization. Rsync is ideal for large files. It transfers only the changes made to the file. This makes it faster and more efficient.
Here are some key benefits of using Rsync:
- Supports incremental transfers
- Efficient for large files
- Secures data transfer with SSH
- Preserves file permissions and timestamps
Rsync is a robust option for transferring large files. It saves time and ensures data integrity.
Preparing Your Files
Moving large files to a VPS can be daunting. Proper preparation is crucial to ensure a smooth transfer. This section will guide you through effective compression techniques and splitting large files.
Compression Techniques
Compressing files can significantly reduce their size. This makes the transfer process quicker and more efficient. Here are some popular compression tools:
- ZIP: A widely-used format compatible with most systems.
- RAR: Offers better compression but requires specific software.
- GZIP: Common in Unix/Linux environments, great for single files.
- BZIP2: Provides higher compression rates than GZIP.
Using these tools is simple. Here’s a basic command for each:
Tool | Command |
---|---|
ZIP | zip -r archive.zip /path/to/folder |
RAR | rar a archive.rar /path/to/folder |
GZIP | gzip file.txt |
BZIP2 | bzip2 file.txt |
Splitting Large Files
Sometimes, even compressed files remain too large. Splitting them into smaller parts can help. Here are some methods to achieve this:
Using Split Command:split -b 1G largefile.tar.gz part_
This splits the file into 1GB chunks.
7-Zip:7z a -v1g -mx0 archive.7z largefile
This compresses and splits the file.
WinRAR:
Use the “Split to volumes” feature in the GUI.
Splitting large files ensures compatibility and ease of transfer. These methods allow you to manage files efficiently.
Setting Up Your Vps
Setting up your VPS is a crucial step for moving large files. Proper setup ensures smooth and secure file transfers.
Initial Configuration
Start with the initial configuration of your VPS. Log in to your VPS using SSH. You will need your server’s IP address and root password. Open a terminal and type:
ssh root@your_server_ip
After logging in, update the package lists:
apt-get update
Next, upgrade the installed packages:
apt-get upgrade
Security Considerations
Ensure your VPS is secure. Change the default root password to a strong one. Use the following command:
passwd
Create a new user with limited privileges:
adduser newuser
Give the new user sudo access:
usermod -aG sudo newuser
Set up a firewall to protect your VPS. Install UFW:
apt-get install ufw
Allow OpenSSH through the firewall:
ufw allow OpenSSH
Enable the firewall:
ufw enable
Security Step | Command |
---|---|
Change Root Password | passwd |
Create New User | adduser newuser |
Give Sudo Access | usermod -aG sudo newuser |
Install UFW | apt-get install ufw |
Allow OpenSSH | ufw allow OpenSSH |
Enable Firewall | ufw enable |

Using Ftp For Transfers
Transferring large files to a VPS can be a daunting task. FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is one of the most reliable methods for this. It is simple and efficient, making it ideal for all users. Let’s explore how to use FTP for transferring large files to your VPS.
Installing Ftp Client
First, you need an FTP client to connect to your VPS. There are many FTP clients available, such as FileZilla, WinSCP, and Cyberduck.
Here’s a quick guide to install FileZilla:
- Go to the FileZilla website.
- Download the FileZilla client for your operating system.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Connecting To Vps
Once your FTP client is installed, it’s time to connect to your VPS:
- Open FileZilla.
- Enter your VPS IP address in the Host field.
- Type your FTP username and password.
- Set the Port to 21 for FTP or 22 for SFTP.
- Click Quickconnect to establish the connection.
If the connection is successful, you will see your local files on the left and VPS files on the right. You can now drag and drop files to transfer them.
Using FTP for file transfers is an effective way to move large files to your VPS. It is secure, reliable, and easy to use.
Sftp For Secure Transfers
Transferring large files to a VPS can be tricky. SFTP provides a secure and reliable method. This protocol ensures your data is safe during transfer.
Setting Up Sftp
First, you need to set up SFTP on your VPS. Follow these steps:
- Install the OpenSSH server package.
- Enable the SSH service.
- Configure the SFTP settings in the sshd_config file.
Here is a sample configuration:
Subsystem sftp internal-sftp
Match User your_user
ChrootDirectory /home/your_user
ForceCommand internal-sftp
Key-based Authentication
To enhance security, use key-based authentication. Follow these steps to set it up:
- Generate an SSH key pair on your local machine.
- Copy the public key to your VPS.
- Add the public key to the authorized_keys file.
Here is how you generate an SSH key pair:
ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 2048
Copy the public key to your VPS using:
ssh-copy-id your_user@your_vps_ip
Ensure the authorized_keys file has the correct permissions:
chmod 600 ~/.ssh/authorized_keys
Using SFTP with key-based authentication is a secure way to transfer large files to your VPS.

Leveraging Rsync
Moving large files to a VPS can be daunting. One efficient way to do this is by leveraging Rsync. Rsync is a powerful tool for synchronizing files and directories between two locations. It can handle local and remote file transfers with ease. This makes it ideal for moving large files to a VPS. Let’s explore how to use Rsync effectively.
Rsync Command Basics
The Rsync command is versatile and easy to use. Here is a basic structure:
rsync [options] source destination
For moving files to a VPS, your command might look like this:
rsync -avz /path/to/local/file username@vps:/path/to/destination
Here, -a stands for “archive mode”, -v for “verbose”, and -z for “compression”. These options ensure a smooth and efficient transfer.
Automating With Scripts
Automating Rsync with scripts can save time. Create a shell script to automate the process:
#!/bin/bash
rsync -avz /path/to/local/file username@vps:/path/to/destination
Save this script with a .sh extension. Make it executable by running:
chmod +x yourscript.sh
Run your script whenever you need to move files:
./yourscript.sh
To make this process even simpler, schedule your script using cron jobs. Edit your cron table by running:
crontab -e
Add a line to schedule your script:
0 2 /path/to/yourscript.sh
This will run your script every day at 2 AM. Automating tasks ensures efficiency and reliability.
Using Rsync for large file transfers to a VPS is efficient. The command is simple yet powerful. Automation with scripts saves time and effort.
Monitoring Transfer Progress
Monitoring the transfer progress is essential when moving large files to a VPS. It ensures the process completes without errors or interruptions. Here, we’ll discuss how to monitor transfer progress using Screen or Tmux and track transfer speed efficiently.
Using Screen Or Tmux
Screen and Tmux are tools that help manage terminal sessions. They allow you to run processes even when disconnected from the terminal. This is useful for long file transfers.
- Screen: Install it using
sudo apt-get install screen
. - Tmux: Install it using
sudo apt-get install tmux
.
Start a new session with Screen using screen -S mysession
. For Tmux, use tmux new -s mysession
. Begin your file transfer within these sessions. Detach from the session using Ctrl-a d
for Screen and Ctrl-b d
for Tmux. Reattach with screen -r mysession
or tmux attach -t mysession
.
Tracking Transfer Speed
Monitoring transfer speed helps identify bottlenecks. Use rsync or scp commands to transfer files. They provide detailed information on transfer speed.
Command | Description |
---|---|
rsync -avh --progress source destination | Displays detailed transfer progress and speed. |
scp -r source user@destination:/path | Shows transfer progress and speed. |
Use nload to monitor network traffic. Install it with sudo apt-get install nload
. Run it using nload
to see real-time network usage.
Consider tools like pv for monitoring progress in pipelines. Install with sudo apt-get install pv
. Use it by piping your transfer command, e.g., pv source | ssh user@host 'cat > /destination'
.
Post-transfer Steps
After successfully moving large files to your VPS, follow crucial post-transfer steps. These ensure your files are intact, and your server remains clean.
Verifying File Integrity
Ensuring the integrity of transferred files is vital. Use commands like md5sum
or sha256sum
. These commands generate checksums for comparing files.
md5sum originalfile
md5sum transferredfile
Compare the output. If they match, the file is intact.
Cleaning Up Temporary Files
Temporary files can clutter your server. Use rm
command to delete them.
rm /path/to/temporaryfile
Cleaning these files ensures your server performs well.
Other Useful Tips
- Always backup original files before transferring.
- Use secure methods like SCP or SFTP for transfers.
- Monitor server performance during large file transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Transfer Large Files To A Vps?
You can transfer large files to a VPS using SCP, FTP, or rsync. SCP is secure, while FTP is faster. Rsync offers incremental file transfers, saving time and bandwidth.
What Is The Fastest Way To Move Large Files?
Using FTP is often the fastest way to transfer large files. It utilizes efficient data transfer protocols to ensure speedy uploads and downloads.
Can I Use Scp To Transfer Large Files?
Yes, SCP can transfer large files securely. It uses SSH for data encryption, making it a safe option for transferring sensitive information.
Are There Any Free Tools For Transferring Large Files?
Yes, tools like FileZilla, WinSCP, and Cyberduck are free. They support large file transfers and provide user-friendly interfaces.
Conclusion
Moving large files to a VPS can be simple with the right tools. Use FTP, SCP, or cloud services. Ensure you follow security practices to protect your data. Choosing the best method depends on your specific needs and resources. With these tips, transferring large files will be efficient and secure.