Best Os X Ftp Client

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FTP clients are used to exchange files between PCs and remote servers. So if you need anything in the range from back up of important documents, secure file sharing, or uploading your website content, you need to get familiar with FTP clients and their features.

You need to transfer files. Maybe to an FTP or SFTP server, or the cloud via Amazon S3, or using WebDAV. You maintain a website, do backups, or upload photos. You need Transmit, the #1 Mac OS X FTP client.¹ Now, in Transmit 4, we took everything good about Transmit, and added a dollop of unbelievably great.

  • Feb 04, 2020.
  • Jan 02, 2020.

What most users look for is high performance, security, and ease of use.

You need to determine which one of these is most important to you.

If its security, you need to look for safe transfer protocols, support for proxies, and encryption.

Simple, user-friendly interface will make your life a lot easier (and it won’t make you regret even trying to do this by yourself).

Another important feature users look for is the option of pausing and resuming transfer and automatic reconnection.

So, if you’ve figured out what you need, check out our list of recommended FTP clients for beginners. PS we threw in a couple of servers just in case you need it.

1- FileZilla (Client and Server)

This free FTP application for clients works on Windows, Linux and Mac OSX while the server is currently only supported on Windows. FileZilla Client supports FTP, SFTP and FTPS. This means that server doesn’t support sharing folders through a network while the same protocol can be used as client.

– Features

  • File transfer in FTP, SFTP, as well as encrypted FTP (FTPS and SFTP)
  • Ipv6 supported
  • Simple drag and drop upload and download
  • Bookmarks for easy access
  • Customizable multi-pane interface
  • File transfer can be paused and resumed at any time
  • Remote search for files on the server
  • Synced directory browsing
  • Support through forums, wiki, and bug and feature request trackers


2- Core FTP LE (Client)

Core FTP LE is the lite version of Core FTP Pro. The lite version still has a lot to offer even though it can’t be used for commercial purposes. The display is not very modern but this doesn’t mean that this protocol can’t satisfy your file transfer needs.

– Features

  • SSL & SFTP
  • Browser integration
  • Remote file editing
  • Pause and resume file transfer (and save sessions)
  • Reconnect lost connections
  • Support for proxies and firewalls
  • Low memory footprint (4mb connected)
  • Set up multiple FTP transfers on different sites
  • SFTP client support
  • Recursive uploading, downloading, and deleting


3- Smart FTP (Client)

Smart FTP is a great professional client server that used to be free. Now you can only get a free limited trial (30 days) but after that period if you wish to continue using it you will have to pay up. This option is great for professionals but if you’re new to FTP, you might want to check out some other options. The server works with Windows 10, which is good news.

– Features

  • FTP, FTPS, SSH, SFTP, WebDAV supported
  • Amazon S3, Google Drive, OneDrive supported
  • Terminal client
  • Secure mobile file sharing
  • Multiple connections
  • Server to server file transfer
  • File/Folder Synchronization
  • Task Scheduling
  • File transfer queue
  • Site search function
  • Connection log
  • Transfer log
  • Transfer Integrity
  • Remote file editing
  • Proxy / Firewall support


4- Cute FTP (Client)

This award-winning client should be on the top of your list if you’re looking for a secure and reliable transfer. It works on both Windows and Mac and is suitable for home and professional use. It’s packed with a variety of cool features that boost performance and security.

– Features

  • Supports HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, FTPS, SSH
  • Schedule automated transfers
  • Safe backup and sync for your sites
  • Create scripts and macros to save time and effort
  • Manage audio files
  • Create podcast RSS feeds
  • Built-in editor for remote editing
  • Simple drag and drop uploads
  • Up to 100 simultaneous transfers on multiple sites
  • Image thumbnails
  • Easy configuration
  • User-friendly interface


5- Cyberduck

Cyberduck is a user-friendly open source client. It supports FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, as well as cloud storage. Another benefit is that it’s available for both Windows and Mac OS. Many users appreciate the feature of offering to sign in automatically to the last used FTP server and to import login credentials of all the installed clients. This speeds up the login process and provides a seamless user experience.

– Features

  • Fast transfer
  • Easy drag and drop upload and download
  • Multiple protocols
  • Multiple login credentials
  • Search function
  • Resume transfer after loss of connection
  • Bookmark manager
  • Multiple languages
  • Transfer log
  • File modification
  • Text encoding


6- WinSCP

WinSCP is an open source client for Windows. It supports STFP (SSH) and SCP. If you need a file transfer between PCs, this is your weapon of choice. It is primarily made to provide secure file transfer between a local and a remote computer. It also allows you to change attributes, delete and view files. The process is straightforward without complications so this program is perfect for beginners.

– Features

  • Windows integration
  • Transfer queue
  • Resume transfer
  • Custom commands
  • Directory caching
  • Different interfaces available
  • XML logging
  • Scripting and automation
  • Command-line interface
  • Master password
  • Binary and text transfer mode
  • Advanced transfer settings


7- FireFTP

If you prefer Mozilla Firefox to Google Chrome, you’ll be happy to hear about FireFTP. This is basically a Mozilla Firefox add-on that provides secure cross-platform file transfer. It’s an open-source client that supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP. One advantage it has over the FTP clients mentioned above is that it works on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. Basically, it runs on all Firefox platforms.

– Features

  • Secure (SSL/TLS/SFTP support)
  • Works on multiple platforms
  • Supports FTP, FTPS, SFTP
  • Synchronization
  • Multiple languages
  • Compare directories and subdirectories
  • Supports character encoding
  • Automatically reconnects and resumes transfer
  • Search options
  • Remote editing


8- Classic FTP

Well, if you haven’t figured it out yet, this one’s a classic. It has a simple interface that’s easy to use even for beginners while also offering multiple features to make your file transfer a safe, efficient, and seamless experience. You can use it to upload and download files with one click, to view and edit files from a remote server, and to sync folders to minimize errors when uploading.

– Features

  • Supports FTP and FTPS
  • Free trial period, reasonable pricing afterwards
  • Drag and drop upload/download
  • Setup and save multiple login credentials
  • Inbuilt transfer log
  • Windows OS
  • Multiple connections at a time
  • File modification
  • Synchronization
  • Terminal window
  • Directory compare
  • No search or resume capability
  • No built-in text editor
  • Well-integrated with the user’s systems and can use all software in the system


9- Free FTP by CoffeeCup

Free FTP by CoffeeCup is a fast, user-friendly FTP client that supports FTP, SFTP over SSH, FTPS over TLS, and HTTPS. If you want to transfer files without compromising PC performance, Free FTP will deliver. If you’re a beginner, this can be a great tool to get the job done. If you’re more experienced, you might want to look into other options. The downsides of this FTP client include the inability to schedule downloads, automatic overwriting of files, and a few advertising banners.

– Features

  • Intuitive interface
  • Supports FTP, SFTP, FTPS, and even HTTP
  • Drag and drop transfer
  • FTP Activity pane
  • Pause or cancel transfers
  • Combo Bookmarks
  • Seamless file management
  • Code completion (with full version)
  • Make ZIP Archive
  • Set permissions for files and folders


10- Viper FTP

This is designed specifically for Mac users. It’s perfect for website maintenance and even YouTube uploads. If you want it done safely and quickly, and you’re not a seasoned FTP user, Viper FTP is a great choice. It also allows you to share files via Mail app. The Lite version is free and it works well if you don’t have multiple FTP accounts to juggle. It provides a fast connection and user-friendly interface.

– Features

  • Customizable interface
  • Supports FTP, SFTP, FTP with TLS/SSL (FTPS), WebDAV, Amazon S3 and YouTube (upload only)
  • Bookmarks
  • History log
  • Secure AES-256 encryption in CBC mode
  • Search
  • Zip file extractor
  • File preview
  • Transfer queue
  • Edit remote files
  • Compare files
  • Set file permissions
  • Progress indicator


11- NcFTP

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This one is a bit different than most of the mentioned options. First of all, it’s probably their ancestor. NcFTP was built in 1990 and it’s a set of applications that implement FTP. And of course, it’s free. It was built for functionality and it works on Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and a variety of UNIX platforms.

– Features

  • Multiple platforms
  • Command-line user interface
  • Bookmarks
  • Automatic binary transfers
  • Dynamic progress meter
  • Automatic anonymous logons
  • Recursive downloading
  • Resume download
  • Redial unresponsive host
  • Passive transfer
  • Filename completion
  • Directory downloads
  • Background processing

Best Ftp Client


12- CrossFTP

This is another option that runs on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. Cross FTP is a free FTP, Amazon S3, Amazon Glacier and Google Storage client. It features secure transfer, easy configuration, and excellent performance. It’s easy to use for both beginners and experts thanks to the versatile GUI and advanced configuration options.

– Features

  • Supports SFTP, FXP, WebDav, Amazon S3, Amazon Glacier, and Google Storage
  • User-friendly interface
  • Multiple tabs for file browsing
  • Text and image quick view
  • Browsing, extraction, and compression of archives
  • Unicode support
  • Recursive file transfer
  • Quick search
  • Web search
  • Auto-reconnect
  • Password encryption
  • Transfer compression
  • Batch transfer


13- Pure-FTPd

The next one in our list is Pure-FTPd, a free and secure FTP server. If security is your primary concern, this is our best recommendation. It can be used on multiple platforms, including Linux, OpenBSD, NetBSD, FreeBSD, DragonFly BSD, Solaris, Tru64, Darwin, Irix, HP-UX, and even Android.

Although it’s a free server, it provides not only the basic features but also extensions such as mirror-safe directory listings (MLST/MLSD). Anything that’s too complicated or potentially harmful is left out.

– Features

  • Extremely secure and efficient
  • Active support and regular code review
  • Virtual domains
  • Passive downloads
  • FXP protocol with permissions
  • Atomic uploads
  • Text / HTML / XML real-time status report
  • Virtual users and quotas
  • SSL/TLS
  • Chrooted directories
  • Anti-warez system
  • Fortune files
  • Quick and easy installation process
  • Monitor user activity


14- Fling FTP

Here’s one great option for Windows Explorer fans. If this is your browser of preference, you’ll love Fling FTP. Most people use it for website maintenance but it can also be used to back up folders. It’s easy to use and it automates file transfer. It’s super simple and fast so it’s great for beginners. It’s free for non-commercial use.

– Features

  • Supports FTP, FTPS, and LAN transfers
  • Easy to integrate into Windows Explorer
  • Fast and simple uploading through Explorer from right click menu
  • Synchronization (automatic change detection and upload)
  • Scan and upload scheduling
  • Manage file transfers to multiple destinations
  • Maintain documents stored on a network folder
  • Automate folder backup by mirroring contents periodically


15- FTP Commander

FTP Commander is a simple, efficient, and therefore widely used FTP client. It’s free for non-commercial use and it doesn’t have annoying banners like some other free programs. The two-sided interface is easy to use by beginners and establishing a connection is just two clicks away.

– Features

  • Simple and easy-to-use interface
  • Uses less RAM memory than similar programs
  • Pre-set FTP servers list
  • Supports pre-configuring a list of most used servers
  • Multiple downloads
  • Two-way file exchange
  • View documents, run programs from local disk
  • Edit, copy or delete files
  • Create and delete directories
  • Command line mode
  • Session log


Conclusion: I think the Filezilla and WinSCP are the best for the beginners.

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It has been around for years and years, used to transfer files between computers on a network.

For these file transfers, you need to use an FTP client that will connect to an FTP server that runs on a remote device.

Some vendors provide software for both – FTP client and FTP server in the same package. But many DO NOT.

Besides, with emerging security concerns of FTP, another protocol, SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol), was soon introduced to address these issues and perform secure file transfers.

It is an entirely different protocol that uses different ports. And, it also adds great file management and file transfer abilities to SSH. All file transfers in SFTP are encrypted using SSH protocol.

Now since myriads of FTP and SFTP clients are flooding the market, it can get quite overwhelming to understand which one is the best.

So, here we have curated a list of Top 8 FTP and SFTP clients for Windows and Linux in 2020. Many are free and some are paid after the trials expire.

Here’s a List of the Best FTP & SFTP

1. SolarWinds Solar-PuTTY

SolarWinds is one of the prominent software companies that has developed a FREE SFTP client- which is Solar-PuTTY. The program in itself is user-friendly. It allows you to remotely connect to any server or device in a network through Windows systems.

As it features a tabbed interface, you get to conveniently manage multiple sessions from a single console. Not just that, it also lets you save private keys or credentials of any session for quicker login the next time. For quick recognition, just use the color coding feature for every session.

There’s also an efficient ‘Windows Search’ tool integration, using which you can search your tags, IP addresses, saved sessions, usernames, etc. within seconds. And as connection establishes, you can even automate all scripts.

Not only does it support graphical SFTP file transfer, but Solar-PuTTY also supports SSH, SCP and Telnet protocols. Lastly there’s no need for installation, you can simply run the executable file.

Solar-PuTTY Features

  • Tabbed interface with one console to manage multiple sessions simultaneously
  • Integrated ‘Windows Search’ tool to easily search IP addresses, saved sessions, tags or usernames
  • Supports graphical SFTP file transfer
  • Also doubles as a SSH Client, SCP Client and Telnet
  • NO need for installation
  • Can save credentials or private keys for Auto-login
  • Script automation
  • Auto Re-connection
  • Color Codes for each PuTTY session
  • File encryption

Editor’s Choice

Solar-PuTTY is the best SFTP client and also a great choice for script automation. Apart from this, the tabbed interface, Windows Search integration and feature to save credentials or private keys are some of its best highlights!

Ftp

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2. FTP Voyager

SolarWinds is a leading developer when it comes to designing free FTP clients. It has deployed myriads of free tools in the market featuring intuitiveness and user-friendliness.

Here’s another powerful FTP Client, Serv-U Managed FTP Voyager. It is a free tool that is packed with features, is fast and quite responsive altogether.

FTP Voyager can handle FTP, SFTP and FTPS file transfers. Its enhanced security is proven by its FIPS 140-2 validation and U.S. Army Certificate of Networthiness (CoN).

It is deliberately made for Windows and Linux systems, and includes various advanced features such as synchronization of folders, scheduling of file transfers and more.

FTP Voyager Features

  • Connection to multiple servers simultaneously
  • Establish multiple file transfers
  • Secure file transfers using FTP, FTPS and SFTP protocols
  • Drag and drop feature for quick file transfers from Windows desktop
  • Automatic synchronization of folders
  • Scheduling of file transfers at a predetermined time
  • Allows transfer of larger files

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3. WinSCP

As the name suggests, the WinSCP file manager only runs on Windows systems. It is an extremely popular, free SFTP and FTP client that lets you connect your local and remote servers seamlessly. It has a very unique dual-pane module for file transfers.

Here you can manage multiple sessions at a time, and also personalize your main page with different sessions, commands and tabs.

WinSCP is quite user-friendly, as it has a nice graphical user interface to make it more visually appealing. Not just that, you can even automate scripts and tasks by setting the rules.

WinSCP Features

  • Open-source, Free
  • Supports SFTP for enhanced security
  • Supports SCP, Amazon S3, WebDAV, FTP and FTPS protocols
  • Integrated text editor allows remote editing
  • Offers GUI as well as a command line interface for file transfers
  • Stores session information such as username, IP address, etc.
  • Scripting and task automation
  • Port forwarding
  • File encryption and Master Password

If you are looking for a very basic file manager, and SFTP/FTP client for Windows computers- WinSCP is a great choice.

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4. FileZilla

FileZilla is again a very popular FTP client, which also supports SFTP and FTPS (FTP over SSL) protocols. The best thing about FileZilla is that it is cross-platform and available for Windows, Mac OS X, *BSD and Linux systems as well.

It is an open-source, free software featuring intuitive graphical user interface along with a bunch of impressive features. Along with IPv6 support, FileZilla client also includes a tabbed user interface, so you can manage multiple sessions over a single window.

Apart from this, it offers a flexible drag and drop interface, so you seamlessly upload or download files. It also supports resume and transfer of larger files, greater than 4 GB- which is a huge bonus!

FileZilla has a powerful site manager and transfer queue for effortless management and transfer of entire websites. Moreover, the directory comparison feature lets you compare files, their sizes, dates, etc. on a local and remote directory.

The only drawback is that many Windows users have witnessed adware in FileZilla’s downloadable program. But that can be resolved by simply unchecking the box to opt-out from the adware while you are installing the program.

FileZilla Features

  • Open-source, Free
  • Multi-threaded transfers: Supports FTP, SFTP and FTPS (FTP over SSL) protocols
  • Cross-platform: Available for Windows, Linux and Mac OX S
  • Uses tabbed graphical interface
  • Complete support documentation with FAQs, forum and support page
  • Available in many languages
  • Remote file search tool
  • Remote file editing
  • Filename filters
  • Bookmarking feature
  • Supports resume and transfer of larger files, more than 4GB
  • Drag and drop support
  • Supports IPv6
  • Great Site Manager and transfer queue
  • Directory comparison
Best Os X Ftp Client

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5. CyberDuck

CyberDuck is another potential FTP and SFTP client that is compatible with Mac and Windows computers. It also supports WebDAV, Amazon S3, and more.

Its interface is perfect for newbies and advanced users as it is easy to use. One thing that makes CyberDuck stand out is how seamlessly it integrates with your Mac environment.

With just a click of a button, you can open files and edit them. Plus, you can even choose your preferred code editor.

For enhanced security of your data, this program uses Cryptomator interoperable vaults that perform client side data encryption. Plus, it also connects your website to cloud storage such as Dropbox or Google Drive and lets you share files quickly via web URLs.

As compared to other FTP clients, CyberDuck’s user interface looks quite modern and intuitive.

CyberDuck Features

  • Cryptomator: Client side data encryption for better security
  • Supports FTP, SFTP or WebDAV
  • Supports transfer to cloud platforms such as Google Drive, Microsoft Azure and Dropbox
  • Filename encryption
  • Open-source, free
  • Does not require account or registration
  • Preferred code editor
  • Bookmarking
  • Drag and Drop feature
  • Filter Field for quick search
  • Quick Look allows a quick preview of files
  • Resume and Transfer files
  • Synchronize local directories with remote directories
  • Supports multiple languages
  • URL generator allows easy file sharing
  • Includes integrations such as Keychain password protector and Bonjour auto-discovery platform.

Though it is free software, if you want to get a registration key or don’t want to see any donation prompts, you need to donate $10 to the developers.

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6. MonstaFTP

Developed in PHP and AJAX, MonstaFTP is a web-based FTP and SFTP client, unlike other clients which are desktop software.

MonstaFTP also boasts a modern interface for user-friendliness, making it a perfect choice for beginners and pro users. You can use it to manage your website via browser, upload/download files, edit code, and much more.

The biggest benefit of MonstaFTP is that it is a file manager in the cloud. You can access your install from anywhere, through any device, which is not the case with other desktop software.

Best free ftp client

MonstaFTP comes in Lite Edition and Business Edition. Lite Edition is free and has basic FTP functionality such as file transfers, folders or file uploads or downloads. Whereas, Business Edition is a paid version where you can customize your UI, restrict access to certain IP addresses and much more.

MonstaFTP Features

  • Supports FTP, SFTP and SCP protocols
  • Code-friendly editor lets you edit your remote files on-screen
  • Allows uploading of zip archives and extract on your server
  • Intuitive interface: works seamlessly on all devices and screen sizes

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7. CoffeeCup Free FTP

CoffeeCup is an impressive, free FTP client, recognized by the name ‘Free FTP’. The program is intuitive, fast and user-friendly.

With just a click of a button, you can connect to a server and simply use drag and drop feature to seamlessly download or upload files to your server or computer.

‘FTP Activity Pane’ shows you a clear status of your file downloads and uploads. Plus, you can even pause or cancel the file transfers. Not just FTP, but CoffeeCup Free FTP can handle SFTP, FTPS and HTTP protocols as well!

At the bottom, you’ll see a Status Bar filled with critical information about what’s exactly happening in your FTP session. It also encompasses amazing file management features for both local as well as remote environments.

Besides, the use of Bookmarks is the most impressive thing about this Free FTP client. Using this feature, you can save your place in a folder on the remote server, or your local device or both.

In just one click, you can even archive the entire remote directory in a local zip file. Such a feature comes most handy while backing up your website.

CoffeeCup Free FTP Features

Client

Best Free Windows Ftp Client

  • Supports FTP, SFTP, FTPS and HTTP protocols
  • Easy File Management
  • ZIP Archive feature
  • Drag and Drop Feature
  • Allows you to set permissions for files and folders on your server
  • Statusbar shows important information regarding your session
  • Combo Bookmarks

As the name implies, Free FTP is a free FTP client. But CoffeeCup also offers Direct FTP which is a paid FTP client packed with high-end features.

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8. IPswitch

Last but definitely not the least, the IPswitch WS_FTP Professional is a paid FTP client packed with myriads of advanced features. Thus, it is more suitable for advanced users.

It is a safe and easy FTP client that allows secure uploads and downloads of files with OpenPGP file encryption, 256-bit AES and FIPS 140-2 validated cryptography.

Not just SFTP, but it also supports other protocols such as SSH, HTTP and SSL.

Apart from this, the IPswitch client has an easy drag and drop feature, customizable display, integrated desktop search engines and schedule feature for post-transfer actions.

Best Mac Os X Ftp Client

IPswitch WS_FTP Professional Features

  • Secure file transfers with 256-bit AES, OpenPGP file encryption and FIPS 140-2 validated cryptography
  • Customizable display
  • Powerful Integrated File Encryption
  • Drag and Drop feature
  • Integrated Google™, Windows® or Copernic™ desktop search engines to easily search and transfer files
  • Scheduling of post-transfer actions such as renaming, moving or deleting files
  • File and folder Archives
  • Schedule recurring transfers
  • Synchronization to any drive, device, location or server

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Conclusion

Most users just need a basic free FTP client with simple functionalities, but there are some advanced users who might need the premium offerings of paid versions. It all comes down to your personal preference.

Ftp Client Download

If you like dual-pane view in the interface for your local and remote files, the WinSCP and FileZilla are two impressive, free FTP clients.

Whereas, if you would just like to see remote files on your server, without any local files or folders, you can opt for CyberDuck- it is clean, free and fast.

Best Os X Ftp Client Login

For high-grade security, reliability and regulatory compliance, you can try Serv-U Managed FTP Voyager.