Which FTP client should I use?

Do you need an FTP client at all?

If you only need to upload, download, edit or organise files occasionally, you may not need a separate FTP program. cPanel includes a built-in File Manager that works entirely in your browser - no software to install. See How to use File Manager in cPanel for a full walkthrough.

FTP clients are the better choice when you need to:

• Transfer large numbers of files or entire folders quickly
• Synchronise a local project directory with your server
• Use SFTP (encrypted file transfer) for added security
• Automate transfers or work from the command line

Recommended FTP clients

All of the clients below are free unless noted otherwise. We recommend using SFTP (port 22) rather than plain FTP (port 21) wherever possible, as SFTP encrypts your credentials and file transfers in transit.

FileZilla

Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux

FileZilla is the most widely used free FTP client and a solid first choice for most people. It supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, handles large transfers reliably, and has a straightforward two-pane interface. A built-in Site Manager lets you save connection profiles so you can reconnect in one click.

• Actively maintained with regular updates
• Handles large file transfers and folder synchronisation well
• Supports drag-and-drop uploads and downloads
• Available in a portable version (no installation required)
• The installer bundles optional third-party software during setup - read each screen carefully

We have in-depth guides for FileZilla:

• Configuring your website in FileZilla
• Uploading files using FileZilla
• Managing files and folders in FileZilla

Cyberduck

Platforms: Windows, Mac

Cyberduck has a clean, uncluttered interface that many people find easier to pick up than FileZilla. It supports FTP, SFTP, and a wide range of cloud storage protocols (Amazon S3, Google Drive, Dropbox, and more), making it useful if you work across multiple services.

• Free on the website; a paid version is available through the Mac App Store and Microsoft Store
• Integrates with your operating system's keychain for secure password storage
• Supports opening and editing remote files directly in your preferred local editor
• Less suited to bulk transfers or folder synchronisation than FileZilla

WinSCP

Platforms: Windows only

WinSCP is a free, open-source client focused on secure file transfer. It supports SFTP, SCP, FTP, and WebDAV, and is a popular choice for Windows users who want a straightforward, no-frills tool.

• Familiar two-pane Explorer-style interface
• Built-in text editor for quick remote file edits
• Supports scripting and automation via the command line
• Can synchronise local and remote directories
• Windows only - not available for Mac or Linux

We have in-depth guides for WinSCP:

• Configuring your website in WinSCP
• Uploading files using WinSCP
• Managing files and folders in WinSCP

Transmit

Platforms: Mac only

Transmit is a premium FTP and cloud storage client for macOS, widely regarded as the best-designed option on the platform. It is paid software (one-off purchase).

• Polished, native macOS interface
• Supports FTP, SFTP, Amazon S3, Google Drive, Backblaze B2, and more
• Excellent performance for large transfers
• Disk mode lets you mount a remote server as a local drive in Finder
• macOS only; no Windows or Linux version

Forklift

Platforms: Mac only

ForkLift is another well-regarded macOS FTP and file manager. It supports FTP, SFTP, Amazon S3, and several other protocols, and doubles as a capable local file manager.

• Paid software with a free trial
• Dual-pane interface with strong keyboard shortcut support
• Folder sync and remote editing built in
• macOS only

Filezilla Pro

Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux

FileZilla Pro is the paid upgrade to FileZilla. It adds support for cloud storage services (Amazon S3, Google Cloud, Azure, OneDrive, Dropbox, and more) on top of everything the free version offers. Worth considering if you need to manage both hosting files and cloud storage from one tool.

MobaXterm

Platforms: Windows only

MobaXterm is primarily an SSH terminal client for Windows, but it includes a built-in SFTP file browser that updates automatically as you navigate the remote server in the terminal. It is a good choice if you already use SSH regularly and want file transfer built into the same window.

• Free Home edition available; paid Professional edition for business use
• SFTP browser is tied to your SSH session - no separate connection needed
• Not a dedicated FTP client; best suited to users comfortable with the command line
• Windows only

Terminus (formerly SSH Files)

Platforms: iOS and Android

Termius is a cross-platform SSH and SFTP client aimed at mobile and tablet users. If you need to make a quick file change from your phone or tablet, it provides a usable SFTP browser alongside its terminal.

• Free tier available; paid plans unlock team features and sync
• Supports SFTP for file transfers
• Best suited to occasional use or emergencies rather than bulk transfers

Quick comparison

Troubleshooting

If you are having trouble connecting, these guides may help:

• How to check if FTP port 21 is blocked
• How can I check my FTP client's log?
• What are my FTP login details?
• Where do I upload my website?