FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It has been around for years and years, used to transfer files between computers on a network.
Vicomsoft FTP Client is a pro-level, full-featured, fast and reliable, easy-to-use FTP + SFTP + FTPS client for Mac OS X. First released in 1997, version 5 represents the culmination of over 15.
Jun 10, 2020. Last Updated: June 8th, 2017 File Transfer Protocol or FTP is used to transfer files to server from your computer. If you are a Mac OS X user then listed below are the best FTP clients for Mac OS X. Some Of The Best FTP clients for Mac OS X Worth Trying 1. Filezilla: Filezilla is a free open-source FTP client for Mac OS X, Linux, and Windows. It is easy to use, has a drag and drop support. Sep 26, 2014.
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.
Best Os X Ftp Client Download
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!
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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. Maglite serial number location.
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
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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.
Coats 1010 tire machine manual. 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.
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.
Kubota gr2010 service manual. CoffeeCup Free FTP Features
- 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.
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.
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.
For high-grade security, reliability and regulatory compliance, you can try Serv-U Managed FTP Voyager.
Server administrators need to balance client capabilities, user interface, and security concerns when choosing the right free FTP software for their business.
It’s no secret that, despite the persistent popularity of file transfer protocol (FTP), the evolution of cybersecurity threats, safety standards, and cloud-based storage systems has changed the file transfer landscape. These elements have fundamentally altered what web developers and server administrators are looking for from FTP software, and clients who haven’t adapted to these needs generally fail to support users’ top priorities: security law compliance and ease of use.
Most internet users won’t need an FTP server to share files with other people, now that cloud-based services are so prevalent and accessible. However, many people still require FTP (or its more secure protocol alternatives, SFTP and FTPS) when carrying out web uploads and large file transfers.
As FTP is still part of the daily lives of many IT folks and even casual web developers, I’ve rounded up and reviewed the best free FTP clients available. For those who don’t need as many administrative functionalities or security measures, a free FTP client is probably equipped to serve the occasional or moderately sized file transfer, and I’ve included a “best-of” list below. However, for many corporations who need more rigorous encryption, better directory and file visibility, and more intensive management capabilities, paying for an FTP server software is a smart investment (and probably saves money in the long run, considering how expensive compliance violation fines and data security breaches can be).
In terms of paid software, I’d suggest SolarWinds® Serv-U®Managed File Transfer for its scalability, range of supported protocols, and comprehensive security controls.
Best Free FTP Clients
1.FTP Voyager
SolarWinds FTP Voyager is an entirely free FTP client Windows users will love. It supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, meaning it meets the security needs of a wide range of organizations. Further, it enables users to connect to multiple servers simultaneously and conduct several transfers concurrently, an important feature for frequent uploaders that other free FTP programs are lacking.
Because SolarWinds designed FTP Voyager with Windows users in mind, the interface will be familiar to veterans of the operating system. Plus, the split screen gives clear visibility into the state of your directories by placing the local and remote servers side by side and automatically synchronizing folders, enabling direct comparison and drag-and-drop file transfer from the Windows desktop. Perhaps most crucially, it automates file transfer with its full-featured scheduler.
Lastly, if your business scales up and requires more extensive file transfer management, you may decide paid software is the best option for your organization. FTP Voyager integrates seamlessly with SolarWinds upgrades to Serv-U FTP Server and Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server.
2. Cyberduck
Cyberduck is another free FTP software respected by industry professionals. Luckily, it’s a free FTP client that can also benefit Mac users. The main advantage of Cyberduck is its widespread applicability: it serves Windows and Mac, and it acts as both server software and storage browser, meaning it supports FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV in addition to Amazon S3, Microsoft Azure, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
Users also value its manual editing capabilities, which allow them to change any text or binary file on the server, and its security specs. Interoperable with its Cryptomator tool, Cyberduck is capable of end-to-end encryption, not only encrypting file and directory names but encrypting file content individually and obfuscating the directory tree.
Best Free Windows Ftp Client
The major downsides of Cyberduck are its lackluster interface (lacking split-screen server juxtaposition), slow transfer speeds, and donation prompt. Each time the program updates, a banner requesting a donation appears—which can be mildly irritating but isn’t a deal-breaker given the client’s utility. Still, if you’re looking for a program capable of transferring large folders, Cyberduck isn’t your best bet. That said, Cyberduck is a great option for occasional, highly secure file transfers.
3. FileZilla
As many people know, FileZilla is the legacy program on this list and has been the go-to free FTP client for years—which makes it well worthy of consideration. It’s open-source, works across operating systems, supports FTP, SFTP, and FTPS protocols, allows multi-threaded file transfer, includes the drag-and-drop feature, and has an easily navigable graphical UI. Other strengths include its directory comparison and directory bookmark features and its remote file search capability.
So, what’s the problem? FileZilla has been mired in controversy one too many times to be considered totally secure. Back in 2014, SourceForge, the software host from which FileZilla was downloaded, was criticized for bundling adware with its installer file, meaning users unintentionally installed additional software. More recently, FileZilla raised alarms for malware in 2018, leading some institutions to ban its use within their organizations as a safety risk.
FileZilla’s features are both useful and convenient, but users can find them in other programs with a strong history of data security, like SolarWinds FTP Voyager.
Best Premium FTP Clients
Serv-U FTP Server
Another tool from SolarWinds, Serv-U FTP Server enables file transfers from the web and mobile devices, has no trouble with large file transfers, and ensures data is never at rest in DMZ networks with a secure gateway. For both Windows and Linux, the Serv-U FTP Server client supports FTP and FTPS over IPv4 and IPv6 networks, making it a versatile, powerful program.
Beyond transfer specs, Serv-U FTP Server offers a host of compliance and management benefits. First, the Gateway add-on allows users to comply with PCI DSS and other industry regulations. Second, its security goes beyond smudging file directories and encrypting the content—it empowers users to limit concurrent sessions, block IP addresses when sessions time out and define access rights for users and groups. Its other management controls include transfer quota settings and automated file movement and deletion after transfer, functions which keep the directory organized and protect performance.
While the Serv-U FTP Server client is a premium option, it’s fairly inexpensive per server compared to other software and offers a fully functional 14-day free trial.
Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server
For those whose needs exceed the capacity of free tools, Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server is the client I’d recommend above every other. Not only does it have all the features included in SolarWinds Serv-U FTP Server, but it builds upon them to provide even more centralized file transfer management, automation, and oversight capabilities.
This managed file transfer (MFT) server program executes transfers supported by FTP, FTPS, SFTP, and HTTP/S over IPv4 and IPv6 networks while assisting with compliance demonstration for PSI DSS, HIPAA, FISMA, SOX, and other regulatory frameworks. This means file transfer is both safe and simple. With ad-hoc peer-to-peer file sharing, users can send or request files large and small from their browsers or their phones.
Serv-U Managed File Transfer Servereasily integrates with existing infrastructure like Active Directory and LDAP servers, so users can sync accounts to simplify authentication and customize limits and permissions by user, group, domain, or server. Further, Serv-U Managed File Transfer provides unparalleled monitoring capabilities, allowing users to track file server startup, configuration, and domain activity logs in the management console. This helps administrators troubleshoot with real-time updates while also creating a thorough record to satisfy internal vetting and external auditing.
Finally, its security measures once again level up with automated processes—sending emails, deleting files, or writing log messages—that take place when triggered by defined events. Serv-U Managed File Transfer Server also offers a two-week free trial with complete functionality.
Modern FTP Clients for Secure File Transfer
Organizations have many options when it comes to FTP clients and the right tool for each will vary with its file transfer, security, and budgetary needs. When choosing the FTP program that suits your organization, keep in mind any trade-offs between command lines and file editing and user interface, as well as any security sacrifices you make for ease of use or cost.
Because of the safety concerns that have plagued some open-sourced tools, it’s important to ensure your organization has powerful data protection and can demonstrate compliance when audited. For organizations with needs beyond simple transfers, a paid software can marry the FTP, management, and monitoring capabilities that free alternatives simply can’t.
Serv-U FTP Server and Serv-U Managed File Transfer Serverare two premium offerings with superlative graphics UIs, operability across protocols and operating systems, safe and easy file transfers, and access rights management. I found these two SolarWinds products to offer the best balance of intuitive interface and comprehensive FTP and security functionalities, so, if you’re not sure yet about paying for an FTP client, it’s worthwhile to download the free trial and test the software for fit.
Digest:
Given the importance of data security, it’s vital that IT administrators manage their Active Directory to have a thorough understanding—and control—of who has access to assets across enterprise networks. This is particularly useful when it comes to centralizing permissions and compliance reporting.
On the data storage note, it’s also good to know how to centralize and secure a database using management system software. This guide will walk you through database types, database management system (DBMS) functions, and a handful of DBMS tools.