Are you looking for the best FTP server for Windows?
Then you are in the right place.
An FTP server runs a program that uses FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and allows you to upload and download files. By default, the FTP protocol is insecure because it transmits unencrypted data. All FTP servers on this list include options to encrypt and protect data by using secure protocols such as SFTP or FTP/S.
An FTP server is commonly used to allow remote workers to upload or download files from a server. It is also used by network and system administrators to back up network configurations and run updates.
There are many FTP server programs available, ranging from free with basic features to commercial products with advanced features like mobile device access
.
In this article, I will share the best FTP servers for Windows
.
Check it out
. 1. FileZilla Server
FileZilla
is an open source FTP server for Windows. It supports FTP and FTP over TLS which provides encryption between server and client.
The FileZilla server has a simple and user-friendly interface. It provides the basic functionality you would expect on an FTP server, such as user account creation, rate limits, logging, IP filtering, groups, and granular permissions.
It’s a good choice for basic FTP tasks such as uploading and downloading files internally. It lacks enterprise features, so you’d be cautious about making this available externally. It used FTP by default, so it’s insecure, you’ll need to enable FTP over TLS to encrypt traffic.
Setup is easy, just run the installer, select a management port and launch the server interface. Then, you just need to create users or groups with permissions to a home directory and you’re good to go.
Arabic numeral.
SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server
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The SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server is designed for network and system administrators. It is an ideal FTP server for backing up configuration files, downloading images, and transferring large files.
It is secure by default and uses TCP port 22 to transmit data securely over an unsecured connection
.
I personally use this to back up configurations on Cisco routers and switches
.
Installation is super easy, requires minimal setup (just a username and password) and you’re all set. It can be configured to run as a service so that it is always available.
Download free tool
2.
Serv-U
Serv-U
is designed for small businesses that need to offer fast, easy, and secure file transfers. Serv-U supports FTP and FTPS for secure file transfers.
You can encrypt communication using SSL or TLS so that data is protected during transit
.
One of my favorite features of this product is the ability to transfer files from a web browser or mobile device. This eliminates the need for users to set up an FTP client to download or upload files. The web and mobile interface allows you to view, upload and download files easily. With an interactive drag-and-drop option, your users can share files from anywhere.
Additional features include support for large file transfers, monitoring sessions, granular control over bandwidth, storage, permissions, and access. You can also view and monitor logs in real time to help troubleshoot and audit access.
Serv-U has great documentation and support. This is an enterprise-grade product at a very affordable price.
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4.
Cerebus FTP Server
=”https://activedirectorypro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/ftp-server-windows-3.jpg” alt=”” />Cerebus FTP Server
supports various file transfer protocols such as FTP, SFTP, FTPS, HTTP/S, and SCP. Cerebus
is a commercial product that comes in four different versions, personal, standard, professional and enterprise
.
Features include multi-protocol support, enhanced security features such as 2-factor authentication, password policy settings, full Active Directory integration, API support, event notification, web transfer client, file retention, and compliance tools.
Cerebus also includes great options for reporting and auditing user data and activity. It also includes robust file integrity checking using secure checksums.
With the four different versions, Cerebus offers options for personal use up to business business use
. 5. Titan FTP Server
Titan FTP
is a commercial product for small and large businesses, it also comes in different versions
.
Like the other FTP server programs, Titan supports multiple protocols that allow secure file transfers.
Titan allows you to configure granular control down to the user level, set permissions by servers, groups or users. Titan also includes a web interface in the enterprise edition and allows customers to access and upload files without an FTP client.
Titan has piracy prevention mechanisms built into the product. If unauthorized attempts to guess passwords are detected, the server can prohibit future access from the client’s IP.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a Windows FTP server, then you can’t go wrong with any on this list. To find what best suits your needs, I recommend you download and demo a few different options.
I personally use several FTP servers, for my administrator tasks I will use a very simple FTP server like
SolarWinds SFTP, for the needs of the organization I will use an enterprise level product like Cerebus
. If you need
employees or external users to access your FTP server, then you really need something easy to use with web and mobile access.
You can also enjoy our list of the best ssh clients for Windows. We review the top 5 Windows ssh clients, list the various supported features and protocols.
