Beyond Linux From Scratch - Version 6.1

Chapter 18. Basic Networking Programs

NcFTP-3.1.9

Introduction to NcFTP

The NcFTP package contains a powerful and flexible interface to the Internet standard File Transfer Protocol. It is intended to replace or supplement the stock ftp program.

Package Information

Installation of NcFTP

There are two ways to build NcFTP. The first (and optimal) way builds most of the functionality as a shared library and then builds and installs the program linked against this library. The second method simply links all of the functionality into the binary statically. This doesn't make the dynamic library available for linking by other applications. You need to choose which method best suits you. Note that the second method does not create an entirely statically linked binary; only the libncftp parts are statically linked in, in this case. Be aware that building and using the shared library is covered by the Clarified Artistic License; however, developing applications that utilize the shared library is subject to a different license.

To install NcFTP using the first (and optimal) method, run the following commands: 

./configure --prefix=/usr &&
make -C libncftp shared

Now, as the root user: 

make -C libncftp soinstall

Again, as an unprivileged user: 

make

Again, as the root user: 

make install

To install NcFTP using the second method (with the libncftp functionality linked in statically) run the following commands: 

./configure --prefix=/usr &&
make

Now, as the root user: 

make install

Command Explanations

make -C ... && make -C ...: These commands make and install the dynamic library libncftp which is then used to link against when compiling the main program.

Configuring NcFTP

Config Files

~/.ncftp/*; especially ~/.ncftp/prefs_v3

Configuration Information

Most NcFTP configuration is done while in the program, and the configuration files are dealt with automatically. One exception to this is ~/.ncftp/prefs_v3. There are various options to alter in there, including: 

yes-i-know-about-NcFTPd=yes

This disables the splash screen advertising the NcFTPd server.

There are other options in the prefs_v3 file. Most of these are self-explanatory.

Contents

Installed Programs: ncftp, ncftpbatch, ncftpbookmarks, ncftpget, ncftpls, ncftpput, and ncftpspooler
Installed Library: libncftp.so
Installed Directories: None

Short Descriptions

ncftp

is a browser program for File Transfer Protocol.

ncftpbatch

is an individual batch FTP job processor.

ncftpbookmarks

is the NcFTP Bookmark Editor (NCurses-based).

ncftpget

is an internet file transfer program for scripts used to retrieve files.

ncftpls

is an internet file transfer program for scripts used to list files.

ncftpput

is an internet file transfer program for scripts used to transfer files.

ncftpspooler

is a global batch FTP job processor daemon.

Last updated on 2005-08-01 13:29:19 -0600