Transferring files to and from your web host or server is most effectively carried out using an FTP client, although the term is somewhat outdated as more secure options like SFTP and FTPS have emerged. As of 2024, numerous well-crafted, free FTP clients are available, simplifying the process significantly. If you are in search of free FTP software, this curated list of the best free FTP clients will assist in narrowing down your options.This compilation includes:
Cyberduck
WinSCP
FileZilla
Core FTP LE
FileZilla Server
FireFTP
WinSCP Portable
CoffeeCup Free FTP
Classic FTP
WinSCP Scripting
PureFTPd
CrossFTP
SmartFTP
Continue reading to discover the complete list and understand why these free FTP clients were selected.Curious about the top free FTP clients? Let’s explore!
Best for: Mac usersMac users and designers will find Cyberduck particularly beneficial due to its integration with popular cloud storage solutions like Dropbox and Google Drive. It supports a variety of protocols, including FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and Amazon S3, and includes a built-in text editor for quick file modifications.Here are the key features of Cyberduck:
Seamless integration with major cloud storage providers
Support for FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and Amazon S3 protocols
Integrated text editor for immediate file editing
Best for: IT professionalsWindows users and IT professionals can trust WinSCP for secure file transfer and synchronization. Whether you’re a system administrator or an advanced user, WinSCP offers a graphical user interface (GUI) that streamlines remote file management. It supports SCP and SFTP protocols and integrates with PuTTY for secure SSH connections.Here are the highlights of this free FTP client:
Graphical user interface (GUI) for effortless file management
Integration with PuTTY for secure SSH connections
Support for SCP and SFTP protocols
Best for: BeginnersFileZilla is a top choice for those seeking a dependable and user-friendly FTP solution. It’s especially suitable for transferring files between local and remote servers. With its intuitive user interface, FileZilla simplifies the process of managing website files. Its support for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols makes it easy to upload, download, and edit files.Why FileZilla is a favorite:
Intuitive user interface
Support for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols
Site manager for effortless server management
Best for: Basic file transferCore FTP LE is an ideal choice for small businesses and individuals in need of basic file transfers and FTP management. Its straightforward interface is easy to navigate, and it supports FTP, FTPS, SSH, and SSL/TLS protocols. Core FTP LE also provides scheduled transfers and file synchronization features.Here’s why Core FTP LE is a standout free FTP client:
Simple and user-friendly interface
Support for FTP, FTPS, SSH, and SSL/TLS protocols
Scheduled transfers and file synchronization capabilities
Best for: Windows usersFileZilla Server is an excellent choice for Windows users setting up an FTP server. It offers an easy-to-use interface for server administration, allowing effective hosting of files and user access management. FileZilla Server supports both FTP and FTPS protocols.What Windows users gain with this top FTP client:
Easy-to-use interface for server administration
Support for FTP and FTPS protocols
User management with customizable permissions
Best for: Firefox usersFireFTP is a Firefox extension designed specifically for Firefox users requiring an integrated FTP client. It eliminates the need for a separate application and supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols, including directory comparison and synchronization features.Here’s why FireFTP is a top free FTP client:
Seamless integration with Firefox, no additional application necessary
Support for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols
Directory comparison and synchronization features
Best for: Portable devicesWinSCP Portable is tailored for users needing portable file transfers on Windows systems. This version of WinSCP doesn’t require installation and can be executed directly from a USB drive or other portable storage devices. It supports SCP and SFTP protocols and securely stores FTP session details.Why WinSCP Portable is a great choice:
Portable version of WinSCP, no installation needed
Support for SCP and SFTP protocols
Secure storage of FTP session details
Best for: Web designersCoffeeCup Free FTP is an ideal solution for web designers and beginners needing to upload and manage website files. Its drag-and-drop functionality simplifies the file transfer process. CoffeeCup Free FTP supports FTP, SFTP, and FTPS protocols and includes folder synchronization and remote file editing capabilities.Here’s why CoffeeCup Free FTP is a top free FTP client:
Simple drag-and-drop file transfers
Support for FTP, SFTP, and FTPS protocols
Folder synchronization and remote file editing
Best for: IndividualsClassic FTP is a user-friendly FTP client ideal for beginners and small businesses. Its interface resembles Windows Explorer, making it intuitive and easy to navigate. Classic FTP supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols and offers automatic file synchronization and transfer scheduling.Here’s what makes Classic FTP a top free FTP client:
Easy-to-use interface with a Windows Explorer-like layout
Support for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols
Automatic file synchronization and transfer scheduling
Best for: FTP automationWinSCP Scripting is a perfect solution for users requiring automation of file transfers and backups. It offers a command-line interface for automated or batch file transfers, supporting scripting with PowerShell, batch files, or various scripting languages.Why WinSCP Scripting is a top choice:
Command-line interface for automated tasks
Support for scripting with PowerShell, batch files, or scripting languages
Logging and error handling for reliable automation
Best for: Linux usersPureFTPd is a lightweight and secure FTP server solution for Linux users and server administrators, known for its simplicity and efficiency. It supports FTP, FTPS, and TLS protocols and offers features such as virtual users, per-user permissions, and bandwidth throttling.Why PureFTPd is a top free FTP client:
Lightweight and efficient FTP server
Support for FTP, FTPS, and TLS protocols
Virtual users, per-user permissions, and bandwidth throttling
Best for: Cross-platform useCrossFTP is a versatile FTP client suitable for users working across different operating systems, as it is compatible with Windows, Mac
