What does the acronym FTP stand for in web development?

The acronym FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol, which is a standard network protocol used to transfer files from one host to another over a TCP-based network such as the Internet. FTP is essential in web development because it enables developers to upload files from their local machines to web servers and download files from servers back to their local systems.

Using FTP allows for efficient management of files, including code, images, and other assets required for websites. It operates in a client-server model, where an FTP client initiates a connection to an FTP server and sends commands and requests for file operations. This capability is fundamental for web developers who need to deploy web applications or update content on live sites, making File Transfer Protocol a critical component in the web development process.