SFTP
The SFTP node securely connects to remote servers via SSH File Transfer Protocol. It enables automated workflows to transfer files safely, utilizing streaming memory protection and explicit connection pooling.
What can you do with SFTP?
Full Remote Management
Natively perform Delete, Create Folder (Mkdir), and Rename operations on your remote server without writing custom SSH commands.
Built-In OOM Protection
Downloads are securely capped at 50MB and stream directly via LimitReader to prevent engine Out-Of-Memory crashes when handling large files.
Binary Data Ready
Seamlessly integrates with nLink's native binary format by encoding downloads into Base64 and setting the `_isBinary` flag automatically.
Secure File Transfer
Supports both password and encrypted private-key authentication, guaranteeing enterprise-grade security for file exchanges over the network.
Detailed Usage & Configuration
The SFTP node is essential for automating data synchronization between your nLink workflows and legacy FTP/SFTP servers. You can list directories, pull down latest reports, or upload generated files seamlessly.
1. Connection Configuration
Never hardcode your server credentials! The SFTP node natively integrates with nLink's encrypted Credential Vault. First, select or create an SFTP Auth credential. You can authenticate using a standard password or a highly secure SSH Private Key (PEM format) with an optional passphrase. All credentials are encrypted at rest.
2. Memory Safe Downloads
If you select the Download File action, the node reads the file from the remote path. To protect the workflow engine, this node enforces a hard limit of 50MB per file. The output payload will look like this:
[
{
"json": {
"filename": "monthly_report.pdf",
"size": 150342,
"data": "JVBERi0xLjQKJcOkw7zDtsOfCjIg...",
"_isBinary": true
}
}
]This payload is fully compatible with any downstream node that accepts Base64 binary files.
3. Uploading Files
To use the Upload File action, you must provide the Remote Path (e.g., /var/www/uploads/file.png) and the File Content (Base64). If you downloaded a file from another node, you can dynamically map its Base64 data (e.g., {{ $json.data }}) into the upload field.
4. File System Management
The SFTP node provides comprehensive tools to maintain your remote directories organically:
- Create Folder (Mkdir): Dynamically generate new directories (e.g.,
/reports/2026/05) before uploading files into them. - Rename: Provide a
New Remote Pathto instantly rename or move files across the server. - Delete File/Folder: Clean up processed files automatically. The node intelligently detects if the path is a file or an empty directory and executes the proper removal command securely.