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An FTP client is the tool you use to move files between your computer and a remote server, most often a web host. While plenty of services now offer web dashboards, a dedicated FTP client is faster, more reliable for large batches of files, and gives you a clear two-pane view of local and remote folders.
The word "FTP" is a bit of a catch-all now. Plain FTP sends your password and files unencrypted, which is risky, so modern clients also speak SFTP (over SSH) and FTPS (FTP over TLS). For anything sensitive, you should use one of those secure variants instead of classic FTP.
tooldownload.net is an independent directory. We link to the official client websites so you get the genuine, unmodified software.
Top picks & alternatives
Cyberduck
Friendly client for FTP, SFTP, and cloud storage on Windows and Mac.
Visit official site ↗
Transmit
Polished, fast file transfer app for macOS supporting many protocols.
Visit official site ↗
Top Free FTP Clients
You can do everything you need with free software here. The big names are mature and well-supported.
- FileZilla is the most widely used free client, supporting FTP, FTPS, and SFTP across all platforms.
- WinSCP is a powerful free Windows client with a focus on SFTP and scripting.
- Cyberduck is a friendly client for Windows and macOS that also connects to cloud storage.
FTP vs SFTP vs FTPS
Understanding the protocol matters for your security. Plain FTP transmits credentials and data in the clear, so it should be avoided over the open internet. SFTP runs over an SSH connection and encrypts everything, while FTPS adds a TLS encryption layer on top of FTP.
When in doubt, choose SFTP. Most web hosts support it, and it is the simplest secure option that just works through a single port.
Connecting to Your Server
To connect you typically need the host address, a username, a password or SSH key, and a port (commonly 21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP). Your web host or server administrator provides these details.
Save the connection in your client's site or bookmark manager so you do not retype it each time. Prefer key-based authentication for SFTP where possible, since it is more secure than a password alone.
Beyond Web Hosting
FTP clients are not just for uploading websites. They are handy for backing up files to a NAS, transferring media to a home server, or moving large datasets between machines on a network.
Some clients, like Cyberduck and Cyberduck's command-line cousin, also connect to cloud object storage such as Amazon S3 and Backblaze B2, letting you manage cloud buckets with the same familiar interface.
Download and Connection Safety
FileZilla's official site has historically been impersonated, and some unofficial bundles add adware. Download from the official project sites only: filezilla-project.org, winscp.net, and cyberduck.io. During FileZilla's installer, decline any optional bundled offers.
For security, always use SFTP or FTPS rather than plain FTP, store credentials in your client's encrypted master-password vault if available, and never reuse your server password elsewhere.
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