How to Use Windows' Built-in SCP to Transfer Files to a Linux Machine

Secure Copy Protocol (SCP) is a method of securely transferring files between a local and a remote host or between two remote hosts. It is based on the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol and provides a secure and authenticated method for transferring files. While SCP is commonly associated with Linux and Unix systems, Windows 10 and newer versions come with a built-in OpenSSH client, which includes SCP functionality. This feature allows Windows users to seamlessly transfer files to a Linux machine without the need for additional software. In this post, we'll walk through how to set up and use Windows' built-in SCP to transfer files to a Linux machine.

Step 1: Enable the OpenSSH Client on Windows

Before you begin, ensure that the OpenSSH Client feature is enabled on your Windows machine. Here's how:

1. Open the Settings app and go to Apps > Optional Features.

2. Click on Add a feature.

3. Search for OpenSSH Client, then click on it and select Install.

After the installation is complete, you can use the SCP command directly from the Command Prompt or PowerShell.

Step 2: Prepare the Linux Machine

Ensure that the SSH server is installed and running on your Linux machine. Most Linux distributions come with the SSH server installed, but it might not be enabled by default. Here's how to install and start the SSH server on Ubuntu (the process may vary slightly for other distributions):

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sudo apt update sudo apt install openssh-server sudo systemctl start ssh

Verify that the SSH server is running with sudo systemctl status ssh.

Step 3: Transfer Files Using SCP

With the OpenSSH Client enabled on Windows and the SSH server running on your Linux machine, you're ready to transfer files using SCP.

Syntax of the SCP Command

The basic syntax for using SCP to transfer files from Windows to Linux is as follows:

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scp <source_file_path> <username>@<linux_machine_ip>:<destination_path>

• <source_file_path>: The file path on your Windows machine you wish to transfer.

• <username>: The username on the Linux machine.

• <linux_machine_ip>: The IP address of the Linux machine.

• <destination_path>: The path on the Linux machine where you want to transfer the file.

Example: Transferring a File

Let's say you want to transfer a file named example.txt from your Windows machine to your home directory on a Linux machine. The Linux machine has an IP address of 192.168.1.100; your username is linuxuser. The command would look like this:

Powershell:

scp C:UsersYourUsernameDocumentsexample.txt linuxuser@192.168.1.100:/home/linuxuser/

When you execute this command, you'll be prompted to enter the password for linuxuser on the Linux machine. Once authenticated, the file transfer will begin.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If you encounter connection issues, ensure the Linux machine's firewall allows incoming connections on port 22 (the default SSH port).

• If you receive a "Permission denied" error, ensure you have the correct permissions for the destination directory on the Linux machine.

Conclusion

Using Windows' built-in SCP to transfer files to a Linux machine is straightforward and secure. It leverages the power of the OpenSSH Client, eliminating the need for third-party tools. Whether you're transferring files for development, backup, or any other purpose, SCP provides a reliable way to move data securely between your Windows and Linux machines.