FileZilla

If you're looking for a completely free way to transfer files between your computer and a web server, FileZilla is one of the most popular tools out there. It’s an open source FTP client that supports not just regular FTP, but also more secure options like FTPS and SFTP. That means you can move files safely, whether you're building a website or just sharing large documents.

One of the best things about FileZilla is that it works on pretty much any computer Windows, Mac, or Linux. You can download either the 32 bit or 64 bit version depending on your system. And while the basic version is totally free, there’s also a Pro version if you need to connect to cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive.

So what exactly is FileZilla used for? In simple terms, it helps you upload, download, and manage files on a remote server. Think of it like a bridge between your computer and your website’s hosting space. You can edit web pages, upload images, or backup your site’s data with just a few clicks.

You might be wondering what the difference is between FileZilla Client and FileZilla Server. The Client is what you install on your computer to send and receive files. The Server is what you’d set up on a machine to host those files, allowing others to connect to it. Most people only need the Client, but if you're setting up your own file hosting, the Server is there too and it’s also free and open source.

Getting started with FileZilla is straightforward. After downloading and installing it, you’ll need to connect to your hosting account. You can do this through the Quick Connect bar by entering your site’s host address (like your domain or IP), your username, password, and port number (usually 21 for FTP or 22 for SFTP). There’s also a Site Manager where you can save these details for future use.

The interface is split into two sides: your local files on the left, and the remote server files on the right. You can drag and drop files between them it’s as simple as that. There’s even a status window at the bottom that shows you whether your transfers are successful.

While FileZilla is widely used, it’s had some security concerns in the past. If you’re looking for alternatives, Cyberduck is a great option it’s also free, user friendly, and available for Mac and Windows. Other tools like WinSCP and Core FTP are worth checking out too, especially if you’re on Windows.

FileZilla continues to improve with regular updates. You can check for new versions right inside the app under Settings > Update Check. It’s a reliable, no cost solution for anyone who works with websites or needs to move files over the internet.