> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.expandrive.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.expandrive.com/connections/file-servers-and-protocols.md).

# File Servers and Protocols

ExpanDrive can mount a file server through SFTP, FTP/FTPS, or WebDAV. These connections use a server address, account credentials, and optional remote path rather than a cloud provider's account picker.

* [SFTP](/connections/file-servers-and-protocols/sftp.md) uses SSH and supports passwords, OpenSSH private keys, and SSH agents.
* [FTP/FTPS](/connections/file-servers-and-protocols/ftp-ftps.md) supports unencrypted FTP and FTP protected with TLS.
* [WebDAV](/connections/file-servers-and-protocols/webdav.md) supports HTTP and HTTPS endpoints.

Use SFTP, fully encrypted FTPS, or HTTPS-based WebDAV when the server offers it. Plain FTP, login-only FTPS, and HTTP WebDAV can leave file contents unencrypted. [Security](/security.md) explains the transport implications.