How can I get a batch file to automatically enter a user name and/or password?

Question

I am writting a batch file that connects to an ftp server but prompts users for a user name and password. I would like to include the login (user name and password) in the batch file so users do not have to enter this information manually.

Answer 1

Use an ftp script file. Basically list each of the commands on a line in order of execution, including the username and password.

for example name the file myfile.ftp on as its contents:

myusername
mypassword
bin
cd myhome
mget *
bye

Then when you call it do ftp -i -s:myfile.ftp ftp.server.com

Answer 2

use the -n option of the FTP client.

For example (in unix shell):

ftp <<==eof== -n
open myserver
user userid password
get myfile
==eof==