A free FTP client connects your computer to a web server so you can upload, download and manage website files. Two-pane apps suit most website owners, while command-line tools suit developers and automated jobs. Use a secure connection type whenever your host offers one, because plain FTP doesn't encrypt your password.
Even in a world of website builders, there are still days you need to get onto your server: fixing a broken plugin, uploading a big file or grabbing a backup. That's what an FTP client is for.
Here are nine free FTP clients in no particular order, sorted alphabetically, from popular two-pane apps to file managers with FTP built in. Each description comes from the tool's own website, re-checked today. If you're setting up a new site, my guide to launching a website or blog covers the steps around hosting.
Get your connection details from your host first: the server address, username, password, port and which protocols they support. Most hosts list these in the control panel, often under a heading about FTP or file access.
And make a backup before you change anything on a live site. Dragging the wrong folder over the right one is easy to do and slow to undo.
Free FTP clients compared
In the free plan column, Yes means the tool's own site describes a free version or free plan, Trial only means a time-limited trial, and No means neither is stated. Free versions often come with limits, so check what's included before you rely on one.
| Tool | Type | Good for | Free plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commander One | Mac file manager | Two-pane file management on Mac | Yes |
| Core FTP LE | Windows FTP client | Simple secure uploads on Windows | Yes |
| Cyberduck | Open-source file transfer app | Servers and cloud storage on Mac and Windows | Yes |
| Double Commander | Open-source file manager | Two-pane file management on any system | Yes |
| FileZilla | Open-source FTP client | Everyday website uploads | Yes |
| FTP Rush | File transfer client | Fast transfers with a tabbed layout | Yes |
| gFTP | Linux FTP client | Simple transfers on Linux | Yes |
| lftp | Command-line file transfer tool | Scripted and automated transfers | Yes |
| WinSCP | Windows file transfer client | Secure transfers on Windows | Yes |
Nine free FTP clients to try
Commander One
Best for: Mac users who want a dual-pane file manager with FTP support in the free version.
Core FTP LE
Best for: Windows users who want a free, lightweight client with secure connection options.
Cyberduck
Best for: People who want one free app for servers and cloud storage on Mac and Windows.
Double Commander
Best for: People who want a free, cross-platform two-pane file manager with FTP built in.
FileZilla
Best for: Website owners who want a widely used free client for FTP and secure transfers.
FTP Rush
Best for: People who want a free client with tabs, queues and support for several protocols.
gFTP
Best for: Linux users who want a straightforward graphical client for file transfers.
lftp
Best for: Developers and admins who want to script transfers and mirror folders from the command line.
WinSCP
Best for: Windows users who want a free client focused on secure SFTP and SCP connections.
Why plain FTP isn't the safest way to connect
Here's the part many website owners don't know. WinSCP's own comparison of transfer protocols describes SFTP as secure over SSH, and plain FTP as only optionally secure over TLS or SSL, noting that FTP is generally fastest partly because there's no encryption. Without that security layer, your login travels unprotected.
So choose SFTP, or FTP with TLS, whenever your host supports it. It takes no extra effort once it's set up, and it keeps your website password out of reach on public Wi-Fi.
What to check in a free FTP client
- Protocols: does it support SFTP and FTP over TLS as well as plain FTP?
- Saved sites: can you store connection details securely?
- Queues: can it resume transfers that fail halfway?
- Sync: can it compare and sync local and remote folders?
- Bundled offers: does the installer try to add extra software?
How to connect to your website safely
- Get your server address, username and port from your host.
- Choose SFTP or FTP over TLS as the protocol if available.
- Connect and check you're in the right folder before uploading.
- Back up any file before you overwrite it.
- Disconnect when you've finished, especially on shared computers.
FTP mistakes that break websites
- Overwriting without a backup. Download first.
- Wrong folder. Check the path before uploading.
- Plain FTP on public Wi-Fi. Always use a secure protocol.
- Leaving sessions open. Disconnect when done.
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Do you make FTP clients? Tool makers can ask to be considered for a featured place on this list.
My plain advice on free FTP clients
Use a secure protocol every single time. It's the one setting that matters more than which app you choose. If your host only offers plain FTP, that's a sign it may be time to look at a different host.
And download a copy of any file before you replace it. It turns a broken website into a two-minute fix instead of a panic.
Frequently asked questions
What is an FTP client?
It's an app that connects to a server so you can upload and download files.
Is FTP safe?
Plain FTP doesn't encrypt your login. Use SFTP or FTP over TLS instead.
What's the difference between FTP and SFTP?
SFTP runs over SSH and is encrypted. Plain FTP isn't.
Where do I find my FTP details?
Your web host's control panel or welcome email lists the server, username and port.
Do I still need FTP with WordPress?
Not often, but it's handy for fixing a broken plugin or theme.
Can I use an FTP client on a Mac?
Yes. Several free clients run on Mac.
Why won't my FTP client connect?
Check the server address, port, protocol and whether your host blocks plain FTP.
Can I edit files directly on the server?
Some clients let you open and save remote files, but keep a backup first.
Is an FTP client the same as cloud storage?
No. FTP connects to your own server, while cloud storage is a hosted service.
Can I automate uploads?
Command-line tools can script and schedule transfers.
What port does SFTP use?
Your host will tell you, as it's set by the server.
Should I save my password in the app?
Only if the app stores it securely and your computer is protected.
Can I give a developer FTP access?
Yes, but create a separate account for them if your host allows it, and remove it when the job is done.
