Dealing with paramiko.ssh_exception.SFTPError While Using SFTP

When using SFTP with Paramiko, encountering an ssh_exception.SFTPError can be common. This error usually indicates an issue with file operations over SFTP, such as file not found, permission denied, or other SFTP-related errors. Here’s how to troubleshoot and handle this exception effectively.

Understanding SFTPError

The SFTPError in Paramiko is an exception class for errors related to SFTP operations. It often contains specific error codes and messages that can help identify the root cause of the issue.

Common Causes and Solutions

• File Not Found: Ensure the file path is correct and accessible on the server.
• Permission Denied: Verify the user permissions for the file or directory you are trying to access or modify.
• Incorrect SFTP Command Usage: Check the Paramiko documentation to ensure you are using SFTP commands correctly.

Example: Handling SFTPError


import paramiko
try:
  transport = paramiko.Transport(('hostname', 22))
  transport.connect(username='user', password='pass')
  sftp = paramiko.SFTPClient.from_transport(transport)
  sftp.listdir('/non-existent/path')
except paramiko.ssh_exception.SFTPError as e:
  print(f"Error code: {e.errno}, Error message: {e.strerror}")


In this example, if the directory does not exist, an SFTPError is raised, and the error details are printed out.

Best Practices

• Use try-except blocks to catch and handle SFTPError gracefully.
• Log error details for debugging and operational insights.
• Validate paths and permissions before attempting file operations.