How to Use SCP in Git Bash to Transfer Files from Linux to Windows

Transferring files between Linux and Windows systems can often present challenges, especially regarding security and ease of use. In today’s interconnected digital landscape, ensuring that data is transferred securely is crucial. Fortunately, tools like Secure Copy Protocol (SCP) offer a robust solution that encrypts file transfers, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access. This guide will walk you through the process of using SCP to transfer files from Linux or GitBash to a Windows machine while also highlighting alternative methods for local transfers.

Using SCP to Copy Files from Linux (or GitBash) to Windows

Step 1: Enable the SSH Server on Windows

Before you begin transferring files, ensure that your Windows machine is set up with an active SSH server. This is crucial for SCP to function properly. For systems running Windows 10 or later, you can enable the OpenSSH Server feature through Windows Features or PowerShell. If it’s not already installed, navigate to Settings > Apps > Optional Features and add “OpenSSH Server” from the available features.

Step 2: Start the SSH Service

Next, you need to start the SSH service. You can do this by running services.msc, locating “OpenSSH SSH Server” in the services list, and clicking the “Start” button to initiate it.

Step 3: Find Your Windows Machine’s IP Address

To proceed with the file transfer, you must determine the IP address of your Windows machine. Open the Command Prompt and enter the command:

ipconfig

Locate the “IPv4 Address” listed under your active network adapter. This address will act as your SCP target.

Step 4: Navigate to Your File in the Linux Terminal

On your Linux system or within the GitBash terminal, navigate to the directory where the file you want to transfer is located. Use the cd command to change to the correct folder.

Step 5: Execute the SCP Command

You’re now ready to transfer your file using SCP. The basic syntax for the SCP command is as follows:

scp /path/to/sourcefile username@windows_ip:"/destination/path/on/windows"

Replace /path/to/sourcefile with the actual path of the file, username with your Windows account name, windows_ip with the IP address obtained earlier, and /destination/path/on/windows with the desired destination path. For example, the command may look like this:

scp myfile.txt user@192.168.1.10:"C:/Users/user/Downloads"

When prompted, enter your Windows account password. Your file will be securely transferred to the specified directory.

Step 6: Verify the Transfer on Windows

Once the transfer is complete, switch to your Windows machine, navigate to the designated folder, and confirm that the file has arrived successfully.

Alternative Method: Transferring Files Directly with GitBash

If enabling an SSH server on Windows isn’t feasible, you can transfer files from GitBash to Windows folders using local paths. In GitBash, you can access Windows drives via /c/, /d/, etc. Use the following command:

cp /path/to/sourcefile /c/Users/YourUsername/Downloads/

Please note that this method lacks encryption and should only be utilized for local transfers.

Alternative File Transfer: Interactive SFTP

For a more user-friendly option, consider using SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol), which provides an interactive command-line interface for file transfers over SSH. On your Linux or GitBash terminal, initiate an SFTP session with your Windows machine:

sftp username@windows_ip

After entering your password, use the put command to upload files:

put /path/to/sourcefile "C:/Users/YourUsername/Downloads/"

SFTP is especially beneficial for transferring multiple files or for users who prefer to navigate directories before uploading.

Conclusion: Transferring files from Linux or GitBash to Windows using SCP ensures secure and efficient data movement across platforms. For simpler local transfers, the cp command in GitBash provides a quick alternative, while SFTP offers an interactive way to manage files. Choose the method that aligns best with your workflow and security preferences to enhance your file transfer experience.