SCP File Transfer in Python

Achieving SCP file transfer in Python requires an approach that balances efficiency, flexibility, and cross-platform compatibility. One common method involves utilizing the os.system() command, but it lacks native Python support and its functionality is limited to Linux-like systems.

The Python SCP Module

For a more refined solution, the Python SCP module for Paramiko emerges as a preferred choice. It offers a streamlined API and supports cross-platform SCP operations. To leverage this module, follow these steps:

1. Establish an SSH Connection:

import paramiko
from scp import SCPClient

def createSSHClient(server, port, user, password):
    client = paramiko.SSHClient()
    client.load_system_host_keys()
    client.set_missing_host_key_policy(paramiko.AutoAddPolicy())
    client.connect(server, port, user, password)
    return client

ssh = createSSHClient(server, port, user, password)

2. Initialize SCP Client:

scp = SCPClient(ssh.get_transport())

3. Perform SCP Operations:

To transfer a file, utilize scp.get() and scp.put():

scp.get('/etc/local/filename', '/etc/remote/filename')
scp.put('/etc/remote/filename', '/etc/local/filename')

This approach provides a Pythonic and portable way to handle SCP file transfers, allowing for seamless interoperability with SSH, authentication, and key management.