FTP or SOCKET server in python???

so i was sittin there one night, with actual free time on my hands, and I decided it was time to incorporate some python code into my renders in Blender. I want to form connections and create arrays and have all sorts of good connection fun with another computer. I need something to transfer strings and also data. The problems are that I need a protocol that is fast and reliable ( also simplistic ), and the protocol has to be able to handle files well.
I would pick FTP over SOCKET anyday for file transfer, but as for raw data involving variables, I think a SOCKET server could do an adiquate job. OR maybe I'm mistaken and the connection of sockets may take forever, and there might be something more suitable...
So my question is: FTP or SOCKET?
Or do I have to use both?

One word would be too much, so I'll keep my mouth closed.