SCP Command Generator
Generate an scp command for copying files to or from a remote server, with recursive, port, and identity file options.
Choose a direction (upload or download), fill in the paths, and this tool generates the exact scp command.
For ongoing/repeated file synchronization rather than a one-off copy, the Rsync Command Generator is usually a better fit.
What Is scp?
scp (secure copy) copies files or directories between a local machine and a remote server over SSH - a straightforward option for a one-off file transfer.
Why Use This Tool?
Remembering which side of the colon the remote path goes on, and the exact flag for recursive directory copies (-r) or a custom port (-P, capital, unlike ssh's lowercase -p), trips people up regularly. This tool builds the command correctly.
How to Use It
- Choose a direction: upload (local to remote) or download (remote to local).
- Enter the source and destination paths, plus the remote host and user.
- Toggle recursive copy for directories, and set a custom port or identity file if needed.
- Copy the generated command and run it yourself.
Limitations
This builds the command text only - nothing is transferred by this tool. For large or ongoing transfers, rsync (see the Rsync Command Generator) is usually more efficient since it only copies changed data.