The FTP protocol is a convenient and popular means for transferring and downloading data from remote or remote sites. Modern FTP programs allow you to perform all the same operations with documents that the user usually performs in Explorer. This article provides an overview of several FTP clients.

SmartFTP Client - the choice of professionals

SmartFTP developers are constantly improving their brainchild. With the release of each new version Operational stability is improved. New features are added to the application from time to time. simple, therefore the utility will do and for inexperienced users. Russian-language localization is included by default.

The FTP program allows you to connect to several servers at once. Built into it text editor, which is suitable for making minor edits to HTML code without the need to launch “heavy” applications.

The scheduler built into the utility will allow you to postpone uploading or downloading files for a user-defined period. Moreover, it is possible to set the time for each document separately.

The only disadvantage of the program is its price. Not everyone would want to spend almost $37 on such a product. Therefore, the program can be recommended to professional website developers.

Cute FTP

Cute FTP is a program for working with an FTP server. Its interface is convenient and simple. Rich functionality makes it possible to use the utility for professional purposes. The application supports 128-bit key encryption. A detailed reference manual is supplied with the program. It will help users of any qualification understand the intricacies of working with clients.

Features of Cute FTP

Like other FTP programs, Cute FTP will show all the files located on the server immediately after the connection is established. The list can be sorted by certain criteria. Large documents are loaded in parts. The speed of downloading files in this mode is higher compared to the classic method. Compressing documents also helps reduce download and upload times.

The utility has a built-in system for custom search for files on the server - few FTP programs have this function. An internal editor will help you change the code of web pages or text documents. The program supports connecting to servers through a proxy. A custom scheduler is designed to automate the process

You can create bookmarks for directories located on the server. The utility allows you to configure connections while saving the settings, but if this is not required, just enter the IP or Domain name V address bar client. Inexperienced users can easily configure the connection using a step-by-step wizard.

ALFTP - simple and free FTP client

Users who do not need professional-grade FTP clients should pay attention to ALFTP. Of course, this is not the best FTP program, but it has minimal functionality that will be enough for most users. Developers will find the utility uninteresting.

Thanks to the Russian interface and a minimum of functions, mastering the client is not at all difficult. ALFTP will display the directory hierarchy and files stored on the FTP server immediately after connecting to it. The utility allows you to perform basic file operations: copying, deleting, uploading, downloading, renaming. The built-in text editor only works with documents downloaded to your local computer. The program can download files, but you can use this function only after the download is completed correctly. If copying fails due to unforeseen reasons, it will be impossible to download the file.

The utility adds the addresses of the servers with which the connection was established to the list of visits. In this list, the user can create their own links and bookmarks. Operations with files can be performed by dragging and dropping, as in Explorer. The program has built-in basic automation tools: turning off the program after downloading documents is completed, breaking the Internet connection,

Total Commander

Functional Total Commander, aimed at working with FTP, provides the user with capabilities that not all free FTP programs can provide. The utility can not only download and upload files, but also transfer them from server to server directly. The application supports traffic encryption with SSL and TLS keys.

To connect to the server, just enter the address, login and password in a special dialog. To call it, use the combination "CTRL+F". All operations with files on the server are performed in the same way as with documents on the local disk.

For automation, the program contains a scheduler. FTP server can be used as storage backup copies, for this purpose the utility provides settings. The built-in text editor works only with local documents.

Filezilla ftp client is an excellent program for accessing the hosting server where your website is located via ftp connection. I would even say this - this is necessary program, which any webmaster needs. If you, dear reader, do not yet know how to work with the program filezilla ftp client, then I strongly advise you to learn, and you will see for yourself how simple, easy and convenient it is to work with filezilla ftp client. This article is about this program.

Personally, I have heard about the filezilla ftp client program for a long time, but have not used it. About a year ago I finally decided to try working with the filezilla ftp client and simply fell in love with this program.

A small digression: an ftp (File Transfer Protocol) connection is a method of connecting and moving files over the Internet. In this case, the filezilla ftp client program allows you to do all this between your computer and your hosting server where your web resource is located.

Using the filezilla ftp client program, a lot of operations with the site can be easily done: connecting your site to the hosting through the ftp client; changing access rights to elements (folders, files) located on the hosting; creating, renaming, deleting site files; downloading and uploading any files from your personal computer to hosting and vice versa; editing all files and folders of your website using the notepad++ program (it is with this notepad that it is recommended to edit program codes to avoid errors).

You can download the filezilla ftp client program from the link given in the final part of the article. In the same part of the article, dear reader, you will find a link where you can download the notepad++ program ( required application to the filezilla ftp client program).

First I will show you how to configure filezilla ftp client correctly, and then I will tell you how to work with filezilla ftp client. I will accompany my story with screenshots for clarity.

During the process of setting up the filezilla ftp client, you will become familiar with the program, dear reader.

How to set up filezilla ftp client.

After installing and opening the program, you will need to make some settings to connect filezilla ftp client to your hosting server. To do this, click the FILE button (in the screenshot - 1 indicated by a red arrow) and select the SITE MANAGER function in the drop-down menu.

A new window will open in the filezilla ftp client program (screenshot – 2), where we perform the settings in order:

1. Click the NEW SITE button.

2. The inscription “new site” will appear at the top, where you can enter the name of your site or write, for example, MY SITE (when you run the filezilla ftp client program and click on this site name, this will happen automatic connection programs to the hosting server).

3. The IP of the hosting or the address of your hosting is written into this field (this data can be found either in the control panel on the hosting, or in the letter that you received when you registered on the hosting).

4. In the LOGIN TYPE field, instead of ANONYMOUS, select NORMAL (click on the corner on the right and select the desired item in the drop-down menu).

5. In the USER and PASSWORD fields, enter your data under which you log into your hosting account.

6. To save the entered data, click the CONNECT button.

Now your computer will connect to the hosting server by clicking on the triangle (screenshot - 3, red arrow) and selecting the name of your web resource.

That's it, the filezilla ftp client program is now configured. But we will need to correctly “link” the filezilla ftp client to notepad++ in order to correctly edit files. And since we need to “tie”, then we will “tie”.

Why do you need to edit files? But you never know for what! For example, to correct a file, rename a file, etc.

To do this, you will need to download and install the notepad++ program on your computer (the download link is at the end of this article). “Binding” notepad++ to filezilla ftp client is shown in screenshot 4 for clarity.

1. In the filezilla ftp client program, click the EDIT button and select the SETTINGS function in the drop-down list, a window with the same name (SETTINGS) opens.

2. In the SETTINGS window that opens, select the EDITING FILES function on the left.

3. In the window that opens on the right, select the USE NEXT EDITOR function, where by clicking the REVIEW button, select the notepad++ program installed on your computer. Click OK to save your settings.

That’s it, the “binding” is done, and now when editing files in the filezilla ftp client, the notepad++ program will always open.

How to change file permissions in filezilla ftp client.

A small digression: on your hosting server, each file has certain rights, which means the actions that are possible with respect to this file (for example, read, run or write). And then, when this file If certain actions are not specified, they will not be performed on the hosting provider’s server, i.e. Changing the access rights to the file will not work.

To change the access rights to a file, you just need to select required file right click(red arrow in the screenshot – 5) and in the drop-down menu select the FILE ACCESS RIGHTS function.

The CHANGE FILE ATTRIBUTES window opens in front of you (screenshot - 6), where you can put the caps in the checkboxes you need in the desired order or enter a numeric value. Save settings. Full access will grant rights with a numeric value of 777.

In the filezilla ftp client program, access rights to folders has one caveat. If there are any attachments (files or subfolders) in the folder (the access rights to which you want to change), then you must decide for yourself whether you need to redirect the set access rights to them, or whether other access rights will be applied to them .

If you put a tick in the REPAIR TO NESTED DIRECTORIES function, then access rights will be set for the entire contents of the folder (directory).

After all changes made, it is NECESSARY to return access rights to their original position. This MUST be done for the security of your web resource!!!

How to work with filezilla ftp client.

To Work with filezilla program ftp client is easy and simple. It is possible that the first time you, dear reader, will have difficulties in your work. But this is only the first time, after working several times, you will very quickly master the filezilla ftp client and will only enjoy the life of a webmaster.

On the left in the filezilla ftp client program there is a LOCAL SITE window - this is your computer. In this window, you can open disks on your computer, the contents of which (files and folders) will be shown “in the tree” in the window, which is also located on the left, but slightly lower.

In the upper right window REMOTE SITE, the filezilla ftp client program shows your web resource (site/blog). In this window you can open the contents (files and folders) of your web resource.

Content from the lower left window (your computer) can be shuffled (left-click) into the lower right window (your web resource). You can also do other actions (for example, rename, delete).

If you want to make any changes to the files of your web resource using the filezilla ftp client program, then select the file you need (screenshot - 5), right-click, and select the VIEW/EDIT function from the drop-down menu.

Then the file you need will open in notepad++, where you can make all future edits (screenshot 7 is given as an example). Notepad++ will help you avoid problems with the web resource if you make any incorrect changes in the codes (you can go back the required number of changes steps and the web resource will be restored to the values ​​​​preceding the edit).

If you have made all the changes (edits) in the codes and checked that your web resource is working normally (“didn’t float” or become distorted), then save the changes in notepad++, go back to the filezilla ftp client and the program tells you about everything done changes, click on the word YES.

Let's look at screenshot again - 5. If you select a file with the right mouse button, then in the drop-down menu you can select some more actions: create a file, create a directory (folder), delete, rename.

This is how the filezilla ftp client program works.

I RECOMMEND TO ALL WEB MASTERS THE EXCELLENT PROGRAM FILEZILLA FTP CLIENT!!!

So, dear reader, in this article you got acquainted with the excellent filezilla ftp client program, with which you can easily work remotely with your web resource, and also learned how to set up filezilla ftp client, how to work with filezilla ftp client directly.

I advise everyone who does not yet know how to work with the filezilla ftp client to master this program, which will make the life of any webmaster much easier.

PS. Some webmasters use Total program Commander (ftp is built into this file manager). But I once read the opinion of some authoritative people that Total Commander does not store entered server access passwords well (they can be stolen).

There is another program with which you can perform similar operations. It's called cuteFTP, but filezilla ftp client will be just what you need for a novice webmaster, because... it is much easier to learn and work (does not contain “cool bells and whistles”).

No matter how actively they advance cloud technologies, storing files, traditionally, is often easier and cheaper on FTP servers. In fact, FTP clients are the same necessary category of software as regular file managers. Of course, we don’t have to talk about “newbies” here: there was and is an established selection of programs among both paid and free solutions.

This review will focus on free FTP clients, which are not so much well-known as they are “variegated”. The greatest attention will be paid to such aspects as protocol support, security, interface, as well as additional functions (synchronization, caching, search, and others).

FileZilla

FileZilla is a cross-platform, multilingual client that is easy to use, supports basic protocols such as FTP, SFTP, FTPS, etc., and has a convenient drag-and-drop interface, tab support, directory comparison, synchronization and remote search. The program is regularly updated, which indicates the active status of its development.

The graphical shell is really convenient - it is not overloaded, as is usually the case in programs of this kind, with many panels. At the top and bottom of the window are the Message Log and the Job Window; in the main part there is a two-column file manager. If the manager seems inconvenient to navigate, you can enable a tree list for local/remote file lists. Tabs are supported. This interface can be called almost classic for GUI FTP clients.

For quick connection you can use the Quick Connection Panel to connect to the host; the transfer protocol is also indicated here, for example, sftp://hostname or ftps://hostname. But it’s more common to make a list of the necessary sources to connect to in the Site Manager. In the settings, again, you can change the protocol (FTP/SFTP), enter credentials, assign local and remote directories that open when connecting, change the type of file transfer (more options are provided in general settings programs). In the Site Manager, as well as in the main window, you can create bookmarks during navigation.

FileZilla has quite flexible data transfer management. Firstly, we mean a visual process of completing tasks, with the ability to pause (for files not exceeding the 4 GB limit). Secondly, the client supports synchronized browsing, directory comparison, filters, caching and, as already mentioned, remote search- standard and necessary functions for navigation.

HTTP/1.1, SOCKS 5, and FTP proxies are supported. Encryption is additionally available for the FTP protocol.

Summary

A simple client that will not satisfy the needs of a professional, but includes all the basic capabilities for working with the FTP, SFTP, FTPS protocols.

[+] Documentation in Russian
[+] Simple and convenient interface
[+] Cross-platform
[−] No command line (server) support

FTPRush

FTPRush is a former paid client that joined the list of free ones relatively recently. Notable features include such functions as FXP - transferring files from one site to another “on the fly”, flexible interface configuration (in the tradition of panel MS Office 2000-2003), SSL/TLS/SFTP encryption, Z-compression during transfer .

The appearance can be customized more flexibly than FileZilla; just look in the “View” menu or open context menu any of the areas. The following is provided: dragging, turning on and off panels, buttons, setting column columns.

The connection manager has a lot of server settings, SFTP is supported (and in the corresponding section there are options for SSL settings), SSH, unsecured FTP, TFTP. You can specify a time zone, define local/remote directories, and add bookmarks. If you have several configurations, it is convenient to use global settings, eliminating the need to reconfigure several configurations. Exception lists, notifications, priorities and other advanced options are available. A number of options are presented related to connecting the program to the server and transferring files. There are several types of proxies to choose from, including SOCKS, and Z-compression settings. Not to mention setting up hotkeys and mouse actions.

The scheduler is accessible through the Task Window. Not to say that it is ideal in the current implementation, but it performs its functions and, in addition, allows you to specify a script or action from the list to be executed. To create scripts, use the designer, which is available in the “Tools” menu. Also in this section you can find a list of FTP commands. Remote search can be found in the FTP menu section.

Perhaps the only point that causes criticism is the very poor quality of the translation into Russian.

Summary

At the output we get free product with functions professional product.

[−] Poor interface translation
[+] Excellent functionality
[+] A large number of settings
[+] Support for secure protocols and encryption methods

WinSCP

WinSCP is a client with open source code, which works with the FTP, SFTP, SCP and FTPS protocols (protocol comparison table), supports scripting and command line.

One of the primary features is the ability to select an interface in one of two options - Explorer or Commander. In the first case, the result is a simulated Explorer panel (with remote access mode) with a left sidebar and accompanying hotkey scheme. If we talk about the second type of interface, then here, rather, analogies can be traced with Far Manager, MC, Norton Commander, while keyboard shortcuts also close to classic file managers.

Support for sessions, tabs, directory synchronization, source/destination file comparison are among other features. Many panels are customizable; you can pin/undock them or remove them through the View menu. However, WinSCP is at least a graphical client in the typical sense; here the device is somewhat different. The functionality will not impress an inexperienced user due to the fact that many options are hidden in the command mode - in the menu you can find access to the Putty utility, the command line and other special tools for working with the above protocols.

The stated support for scripts will be useful when automating data transfer or scheduling tasks (which will be of interest to experienced users). Enough detailed instructions on scheduling jobs in Windows via the command line in the guide.

As for FTP, the functionality is quite mediocre, and, moreover, there is no FXP function, which in FTPRush, for example, is listed as almost the main one. However, FXP is not supported on every server.

On the page with translations you can find partial Russification (80% complete).

Summary

The client is intended for an audience of experienced users who primarily work with the SFTP, SCP and FTPS protocols using a terminal.

[+] Control via console
[+] Flexible configuration of SFTP, SCP and FTPS
[+] Good automation capabilities

Cyberduck is not a typical product in the FTP client niche, since it is primarily positioned as a “file browser” for Windows platforms and Mac OS. Supported protocols are FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, Cloud Files, Google Drive, Google Storage and Amazon S3.

When launched, the program prompts you to import hosts from FileZilla, and the specified addresses will be bookmarked. The program uses a single-panel mode, which in this case is not optimal for a desktop client and only causes inconvenience. To upload files, you need to open a separate window, and similarly to view the job queue. To change access rights, you need to go to the “Access Rights” tab of the “Info” section. All standard operations, related to working with FTP, are collected in the “Action” menu. In the program you can see a search window, but, as it turned out, this is a kind of filter by name, but not a search by file.

If the program cannot be noted for the convenience of the FTP mode, then perhaps someone will be attracted by some additional functions, including support for storage cloud services, such as Google Drive or Amazon S3. Fine settings for integration with services was not found. To export documents from Google Docs you can choose the file format, in the case of Amazon - encryption settings, etc. Regarding functionality, again, nothing can be said in defense of Cyberduck: for example, a simple operation like assigning access rights to Google Drive much more intuitive in the original interface. The use of an inconvenient alternative here seems questionable.

In general, due to its very simple interface, Cyberduck cannot be called the optimal client for working with the above services. However, as a file manager for viewing documents, it is quite suitable. One can only hope that the developers will improve the functionality in one of the directions - either working with FTP or supporting cloud services.

Summary

Despite support for FTP, SFTP and other protocols, Cyberduck is only suitable for uploading or downloading files, viewing documents on Google Docs and other simple operations. That is, the most basic work with the declared protocols and services.

[+] Unified interface
[−] Few settings
[−] Inconvenient file manager
[−] poor support for cloud services

CoreFTP LE

This file manager is notable for supporting the protocols SFTP, SSL, TLS, FTPS, IDN, command line mode, FXP, and several types of proxies. LE is a free lightweight version of the client, PRO contains many additional features such as file encryption, zip archiving, synchronization and .

The CoreFTP LE shell has an "old school" feel to it. And, although the layout of the panels is quite intuitive, for comfortable work you need to reconfigure everything. You can use the Reset View command to change the display mode: for example, move the logs up, remove unnecessary panels, etc.

If we talk about the possibilities when working with FTP, standard features CoreFTP includes creating tasks for several sites, recursive operations with files (uploading, downloading and deleting). Multithreading is not available in the LE version, however, a considerable number of options are open in the “Connections” section. In the Transfers section you can enable compression - in the LE version, however, not all options are available.

The site manager is very flexible in configuration; the number of protocols and options provided for SSH, SSL/TSL are pleasing. Security settings can be found in "Advanced File Settings". Proxies are not forgotten, FTP Proxy/HTTP 1.1/SOCKS are available in the list. For advanced users, the “Script/Cmds” section will be of interest, although, apparently, command mode here it is presented more modestly than in WinSCP, and there is no terminal.

Summary

FTP client with a traditional interface and good functionality for demon paid version, with a large number of settings regarding security, data transfer, connection.

[−] No scheduler
[−] Outdated interface
[+] Good functionality
[+] Advanced SSH, SSL/TSL and proxy settings

BitKinex

The list of features indicated on the BitKinex website comes down to the convenience of the user environment, however, if you pay attention to other aspects, the bottom line is support for the FTP, FXP, FTPS, SFTP, HTTP, HTPS, WebDAV protocols, FXP and Indirect Transfers (FTP) functions ->SFTP, WebDAV->FTPS, HTTP->FTP, etc.). Other possibilities are listed on the page. It follows from them that BitKinex can also be used to create mirrors, as a download manager - that is, a very versatile client.

To create a connection, the “Quick Connect” setup wizard is used, which, however, can be skipped by going to the “Control Window” window. Data sources for various protocols are collected here, each of which can be carefully configured. All sources are grouped by protocol type.

Operations with files on the server are performed in another window - the “Browse Window”, which opens when connecting to the source. This window presents a standard two-column manager. In the main area there are local and remote sources, on the left there is a list of hosts, at the bottom there is a list of tasks and a log.

Integration with Windows Explorer is possible, dragging between windows is supported, and, most interestingly, drag & drop of data between protocols. Many operations with files and folders are available, such as comparing, blocking, changing rights CHMOD access and other operations. The program supports command line mode. Additional features worth noting are synchronization and mirroring.

Summary

A universal manager for a wide range of protocols, with its own interesting ideology, flexible settings. Will be of interest to users who work with multiple sources, experienced webmasters and system administrators.

[+] Excellent functionality
[+] Convenient grouping of sources
[−] Insufficiently intuitive interface

CoffeeCup is known for its simple, “casual” programs, and the Free FTP client is no exception. The word “easy” is often used when describing features. However, not only the FTP protocol is supported, but also SFTP and FTPS, which made it possible to include this client in the review.

To create a connection, you need to go to “Manage Servers”, where your S-Drive account has already been established. The program quite intrusively “recommends” connecting this service; it cannot be removed from the site manager.

It is obvious that the CoffeeCup Free FTP client is aimed at working with static sites, since it has a built-in editor with auto-completion, code folding, highlighting and other amenities. Alas, it is only available in the paid version and at the same time takes up half of the program’s work area and a separate settings section. It can be easily removed from view by switching to FTP View mode.

There are few basic options, especially regarding secure protocols. In principle, it is logical that a novice user would rather prefer the insecure and more familiar FTP. The settings also contain proxy parameters, although you cannot select the connection type, you can only add server(s) to the list. One of the notable features is the built-in ZIP archiver. Strangely enough, there was also a place for the PuTTY client here - a “spare” in case CoffeeCup Free FTP is used by experienced users?

Summary

The CoffeeCup client is extremely easy to use because the functionality does not allow you to get confused. Perhaps it will be useful for novice webmasters who need to edit HTML files on the server, or during the period of familiarization with web technologies.

[+] The client is easy to learn
[−] S-Drive obsessiveness
[−] Lack of search, synchronization and comparison of directories
[−] Built-in text editor

Pivot table


FileZillaFTPRushWinSCP CoreFTP LEBitKinex
DeveloperTim KosseFTPRushWinSCP CoreFTP LEBitKinex
LicenseFreeware (GPL)FreewareFreeware (GPL)Freeware (GPL)FreewareFreewareFreeware
PlatformsWindows, Linux, Mac OSXWindows 2000+Windows 2000+Windows, Mac OSXWindowsWindows XP+Windows XP+
ProtocolsFTP, SFTP, FTPSFTP, SFTP, TFTP+FTP, SFTP, SCP, FTPSFTP, SFTP, WebDAV, Cloud Files, Google Drive, Google Storage, Amazon S3 SFTP, SSL, TLS, FTPS, IDNFTP, FTPS, SFTP, HTTP, HTPS, WebDAV+ FTP, SFTP, FTPS
Console+ + + + +
ProxyFTP, HTTP, SOCKSFTP, HTTP, SOCKS+FTP, HTTP, SOCKS, Telnet+systemicFTP, HTTP, SOCKSFTP, HTTP, SOCKS+
Remote search+ + + + +
Synchronization+ + + + + +
Directory Content Comparison+ + + + +

They are not something fundamentally new, but before cloud technologies took over the market, FTP servers were actively used for remote file storage. However, for solving certain problems they continue to remain the only option, but in general they are in demand of this protocol is on the decline. Only website owners, software developers and system administrators remain staunch supporters of FTP.

The decline in interest in FTP among ordinary users is explained not only by the prevalence of cloud storage, but also by some inconvenience - to work with this protocol you need software, called an FTP client. FTP client for Windows, Linux or other operating system is a file manager capable of connecting to a server. By the way, you can establish a connection with the FTP server using the usual Windows Explorer, if configured correctly, but used for these purposes special programs still much more convenient.

Not all FTP clients are created equal, however. Some of them are more functional, others less so; Some are quite usable, while the interface of others is not particularly convenient; some are completely free, others are distributed on a commercial basis. Which one should you prefer? Perhaps the one that meets all your requirements. To make it easier to make a choice, we offer a short comparative review the five best, in our opinion, FTP clients for Windows.

Perhaps the most popular and in demand free FTP client. Flexible, simple and convenient, it supports all the basic functions for working with the FTP protocol. Application features include fast connection, setting speed limits, name filtering, resuming large files, multi-threaded loading, authentication and encryption using Kerberos. The client supports synchronization of viewing task completion, remote search, directory comparison, and adding bookmarks.

Advantages and disadvantages

  • Ease of use.
  • User-friendly interface.
  • Automatic connection resumption if disconnected.
  • There is a Russian language.
  • Availability of built-in network configuration assistant.
  • Cross-platform.
  • Work in multi-threaded mode.
  • There is no full implementation of command line support.
  • No support for FXP protocol.

Cyberduck is not an ordinary program for FTP connection; it differs from other FTP clients minimum set functions and settings, representing more of a file browser with support remote control data on the servers. Can be used by novice users. The application supports automatic resumption of transmission when the connection is lost, keeping an action log, working with popular cloud storage(WebDAV, Cloud Files protocols), integration with external text editors, encryption and synchronization of local directories with remote ones.

Advantages and disadvantages

  • Maximum ease of use.
  • Unified Russian-language interface.
  • Cloud storage support.
  • View files on the server without having to download.
  • Few functions and settings.
  • Inconvenient single-panel mode.
  • Intrusive requests to donate to the developer.

A very good free FTP client with support for FTP, SFTP, SCP, FTPS, scripts and command line protocols. During installation, it offers you to choose between several interface modes, of which the more convenient is “Commander” - a traditional two-panel one, like in FileZilla. WinSCP supports remote editing of files in an integrated editor, directory comparison and synchronization, and integration into the Windows shell. Externally, the program looks quite simple, however, it is aimed primarily at experienced users, since its main functionality is available only in console mode.

Advantages and disadvantages

  • Good functionality.
  • Full command line support.
  • Convenient interface in Russian.
  • Flexibility of settings.
  • Automation of tasks.
  • Integration into Windows Explorer.
  • Remote editing of text and configuration files.
  • Not suitable for inexperienced users.
  • There is no full support for the FXP protocol.

One of the oldest and most popular programs for connecting via FTP. Feature-rich and flexible, CoreFTP LE supports a wide range of protocols, including SFTP, SSL, TLS, FTPS and IDN. It is also worth noting support for proxies and command line; among the program functions are fast connection, adding resources to bookmarks, filtering, resuming downloads, and exchanging files between remote servers. The built-in site manager is distinguished by its great flexibility of settings; many options are available for SSH, SSL/TSL. In addition to the LE version (light), there is also a professional version of the FTP client, characterized by the presence additional options– encryption, archiving in ZIP, etc.

Advantages and disadvantages

  • Good functionality.
  • Flexible settings.
  • Command line support.
  • Advanced settings for SSH, SSL/TSL.
  • Proxy support.
  • Somewhat outdated interface.
  • There is no Russian language.
  • No scheduler.

A lightweight, simple and convenient FTP client with a built-in text code editor, apparently aimed at novice webmasters. The application works with the FTP, SFTP and FTPS protocols, and supports all basic functions. Features include automatic memorization of paths in recent sessions, creation of bookmarks, and the presence of a built-in ZIP archiver (suggested for Reserve copy sites) and the PuTTY client. You can enable proxy in the application settings. A built-in text editor is present, occupying almost half of the CoffeeCup Free FTP workspace. Its functionality is available only in the paid version.

Advantages and disadvantages

  • Minimalistic interface and ease of use.
  • There is a built-in terminal.
  • Availability of ZIP archiver.
  • Few settings, unlikely to interest experienced users.
  • Intrusive offers to connect the S-Drive service.
  • Useless text editor in the Free version.
  • There are no search, synchronization and directory comparison functions.
  • There is no support for the Russian language.

Bottom line

In addition to these five programs, there are many other tools for connecting via FTP. They have not received wide distribution in the Russian-speaking segment of the Internet, some due to the lack of language support, others because they are offered exclusively on a paid basis. Why pay if there are such wonderful and free tools like FileZilla? If this program had not fulfilled its purpose, it is unlikely that it would have been able to achieve such exceptional recognition. If you are faced with choosing an FTP client, we recommend that you pay attention to FileZilla. It has everything you need to connect to servers, and even more, other FTP clients can be considered as an addition to its functionality.

10 Best Free FTP Clients for 2017

10. FTP Client for Linux

FTP client is a program that uses the FTP protocol to transfer files to and from a remote computer. FTP is the most common transfer protocol used to transfer files from one computer to another over the Internet. The basic version of the protocol is not secure.

Every web designer/developer has a favorite FTP client and we typically transfer files to web servers using these clients. However, there are times that we do not have our computers with us, but need to transfer or edit a file that can only be received via FTP.

There are many free FTP clients available on the Internet. In this article you will find a list of the best handpicked FTP clients for developers.

FileZilla is the number one choice for most users as it is one of the promising and popular FTP clients. FileZilla is very fast, can handle simultaneous transfers and supports cross-platform FTP, SFTP and FTPS with a large number of useful functions and intuitive graphical interface user.

In addition, it also supports IPv6, bookmarks, works on Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, etc., supports file editing, remote directory comparison, drag and drop, remote file search and much more.

FireFTP is a free, secure, cross-platform FTP/SFTP client for Mozilla Firefox, which provides easy and intuitive access to FTP/SFTP servers. FireFTP is free, cross-platform, and supports SSL/TLS/SFTP (the same encryption used in online banking and shopping). This FTP client is available in 20 languages, comes with character set support, search/filtering, remote editing, account export/import, file hashing, proxy support, FXP support, and is open source.

Monsta FTP is a cloud-based, open source PHP/Ajax software that puts FTP file management right in the browser, anywhere, anytime. You can drag and drop files into your browser and view and download them like magic. Monsta FTP supports on-screen file editing. There is support for multiple languages.

It has been tested on Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer and Safari. It is released under the GNU General Public License. You can download it for free and install it on your own server.

Cyberduck is a libre FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, S3, Backblaze B2, Azure and OpenStack Swift browser for Mac and Windows. Easy to use interface, connection to FTP (File Transfer Protocol), SFTP (SSH secure file transfer), WebDAV (Web based distributed development and versioning), Amazon S3, Google Cloud Storage, Rackspace Cloud Files, Backblaze B2, Google Drive and Dropbox.

You can edit standard HTTP headers and add custom HTTP file headers for metadata storage and cache control. Batch editing enabled.

Cyberduck is a convenient application for uploading and downloading files from FTP. Being simple and easy to use, the client is easily customized to the user's needs.


SmartFTP supports FTP (File Transfer Protocol), FTPS, SFTP, WebDAV, S3, Google Drive, OneDrive, SSH, terminal client. It allows you to transfer files between local computer and a server on the Internet. Along with its many basic and advanced features, SmartFTP also offers secure, reliable and efficient transfers that make it a powerful tool.

SmartFTP includes some new features such as support for Windows 10, text editor, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive and many other improvements and enhancements.

WinSCP is open source software - a free SFTP client, FTP client, WebDAV client and SCP client for Windows. Its main function is to transfer files between local and remote computer. In addition, WinSCP offers scripts and basic functionality file manager.

Classic FTP is a stable FTP client that is affordable and very easy to use. It is packed with many useful features such as an intuitive user interface, drag-and-drop file synchronization tool, supports secure FTP (SSL), compatible with all popular FTP servers, a simple setup wizard, and works on both Windows and Mac OS X .

Transmit is the most popular and dominant FTP client among Mac users. It comes with a very powerful set of features such as folder sync, drive function and more high speeds. Transfer integrates perfectly into the native Mac environment, making it very easy for Mac users to start using it quickly. Transmit is not a free FTP client!

OneButton FTP is a graphical FTP client for Mac OS X with a strong emphasis on ease of use. OneButton FTP makes it easy to transfer files by simply dragging and dropping files from your computer.

OneButton FTP costs nothing; This is a completely free client. It contains localizations in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish and Swedish. It supports both unencrypted FTP and FTP over SSL.

10. FTP Client for Linux

gFTP is a free multi-threaded file transfer client for *NIX based machines. It supports FTP, FTPS (connection control), HTTP, HTTPS, SSH and FSP protocols. Uploading and editing files is similar to FileZilla.