Ftp Software For Mac Os
Transferring files to and from your web host or server is best done with what’s commonly known an FTP client, though the term is a bit dated because there are more secure alternatives such as SFTP and FTPS.
When I was putting together this list, this was my criteria:
Sep 15, 2009 Mac OS X has built in FTP software, but its a Terminal thing - it's simple UNIX stuff, which is what I prefer, but some folks like a GUI = Cyber Duck (free) and then there is Transmit (not free), and there are several others. The UNIX stuff is free, and very simple to use.
- Supports secure file transfer protocols: FTP isn’t secure. Among its many flaws, plain FTP doesn’t encrypt the data you’re transferring. If your data is compromised en route to its destination, your credentials (username and password) and your data can easily be read. SFTP (which stands for SHH File Transfer Protocol) is a popular secure alternative, but there are many others.
- Has a GUI: There are some awesome FTP clients with a command-line interface, but for a great number of people, a graphical user interface is more approachable and easier to use.
1. FileZilla
Topping the list is FileZilla, an open source FTP client. It’s fast, being able to handle simultaneous transmissions (multi-threaded transfers), and supports SFTP and FTPS (which stands for FTP over SSL). What’s more, it’s available on all operating systems, so if you work on multiple computers — like if you’re forced to use Windows at work but you have a Mac at home — you don’t need to use a different application for your file-transferring needs.
Available on Windows, Mac OS and Linux
2. Cyberduck
Cyberduck can take care of a ton of your file-transferring needs: SFTP, WebDav, Amazon S3, and more. It has a minimalist UI, which makes it super easy to use.
Available on Windows and Mac OS
Jul 12, 2018 The next time you start typing 'Terminal' stop with the first three letters: 'Ter'.Try it: Open Spotlight from the top right corner icon ( Command + Spacebar) Start typing 'Ter' (add more letters if you don't see Terminal in the list) Select Terminal. Apps not showing on spotline search mac.
3. FireFTP
This Mozilla Firefox add-on gives you a very capable FTP/SFTP client right within your browser. It’s available on all platforms that can run Firefox.
Available on Windows, Mac OS and Linux
Download here
4. Classic FTP
Classic FTP is a file transfer client that’s free for non-commercial use. It has a very simple interface, which is a good thing, because it makes it easy and intuitive to use. I like its “Compare Directories” feature that’s helpful for seeing differences between your local and remote files.
Available on Windows and Mac OS
5. WinSCP
This popular FTP client has a very long list of features, and if you’re a Windows user, it’s certainly worth a look. WinSCP can deal with multiple file-transfer protocols (SFTP, SCP, FTP, and WebDav). It has a built-in text editor for making quick text edits more convenient, and has scripting support for power users.
Available on Windows
Honorable Mention: Transmit
For this post, I decided to focus on free software. But it just doesn’t seem right to leave out Transmit (which costs $34) in a post about FTP clients because it’s a popular option used by web developers on Mac OS. It has a lot of innovative features and its user-friendliness is unmatched. If you’ve got the cash to spare and you’re on a Mac, this might be your best option.
Source: panic.com
Available on Mac OS
Which FTP client do you use?
There’s a great deal of FTP clients out there. If your favorite FTP client isn’t on the list, please mention it in the comments for the benefit of other readers. And if you’ve used any of the FTP clients mentioned here, please do share your thoughts about them too.
Related Content
IT professionals looking to use FTP on a Mac must fully understand what FTP is, the risks involved, and the tools available to help them increase efficiencies and keep sensitive information secure.
To understand how to use FTP on a Mac, it’s important to fully grasp what FTP is and how it works. File transfer protocol (FTP) is a method for sending large files across the internet. Many companies rely on FTP sites and tools to operate efficiently on a day-to-day basis, whether to send a multi-slide, image-packed PowerPoint presentation or a high-quality company video. While there are some built-in options for file transfer on a Mac, I’ll also highlight why a robust software program is a better option for just about every business. My recommendation is to check out an option like SolarWinds® Serv-U®.
FTP relies on a client-server relationship in which there’s a separate command channel for controlling files that are uploaded, downloaded, copied, etc., and a data channel for the distribution of the content. These FTP sessions can function in both active and passive modes. With active mode, the client establishes the command channel and the server establishes the data channel. In passive mode, the server uses the command channel to provide the client with the information required to open a data channel, thus putting the client in control of both the command and data channel. Passive mode is often the go-to because it avoids bumping up against firewalls.
Is FTP Secure?
In an era when security threats abound, IT professionals must ensure their companies are upholding security best practices.
FTP used independently, without the support of third-party software, can pose a number of threats. Many FTP sites allow for anonymous transfers, in which users can access and send files without a username and password. Anonymous FTP is not secure and should only be used in situations where files are intended to be public.
But even FTP connections that require an ID and password are at risk. FTP passwords and IDs are transferred over the internet without encryption, potentially exposing them to password sniffing attacks hosted by cybercriminals. Mac FTP clients are also subject to man-in-the-middle attacks, in which attackers alter communications and documents transferred between two computers, often injecting them with malware the recipient then unknowingly downloads.
Another less likely but still possible FTP security risk is data that “strays” to a remote computer rather than its intended destination. This would allow a third party to view or even edit any transferred files, putting confidential information in jeopardy.
Improving FTP Security
To combat this, FTPS (FTP over SSL) was created. Mac apps to downloa youtube videos. FTPS transfers data over an SSL-encrypted network. Any connection attempt that doesn’t use SSL encryption is not accepted by the server. FTPS also leverages digital certificates to authenticate information. Certificates signed by a known certificate authority (CA) or that include a copy of the recipient’s public key are considered secure.
Like FTPS, SFTP (secure file transfer protocol) enhances the security of traditional FTP methodology. Unlike FTPS, which relies on the same data and command channels as FTP, SFTP transfers both data and commands via a single, secure connection. SFTP also encrypts both the authentication information and the data being transferred with the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol, a form of public and private key encryption. This ensures nothing remains as clear text.
To take security one step further for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, IT professionals may want to consider implementing third-party tools designed for both FTP for Mac and Windows or enhanced file transfer security available in a managed file transfer (MFT) server tool. This software helps take business security to the next level through a wide variety of secure protocols and encryption practices. It can also boost efficiency and streamline many of the clunky side effects associated with basic server FTP functions.
How Can I Use FTP on a Mac?
Using FTP from Mac is straightforward, but there are multiple avenues to consider. There’s a built-in Mac FTP server to make it easy for users to add their files into the FTP client Mac and grant others access to specified documents. To do this, follow these steps:
- Choose “System Preferences” from the Apple icon
- Click “Sharing”
- Select the “File Sharing” box and click “Options”
- Click “Share Files and Folders Using FTP”
This simple process allows other computers to share and copy files from your machine. If you want to connect to an FTP server Mac to access another individual’s files without third-party software, you’ll need to:
- Navigate to the “Finder Menu”
- Select “Go”
- Click “Connect to Server”
- Enter the name and a password for the server you’re attempting to connect to.
Mac Os Ftp Server
This form of FTP Mac connection comes with a few limitations. It can only be used to download files, and if a username or password contains an “@” symbol, the server will fail to connect. In addition, dragging and dropping large files is typically prohibited and security is at a bare minimum.
Best FTP for Mac Software Options
A third-party software, like SolarWinds Serv-U FTP, is needed for IT teams looking to deliver quick, easy, and reliable file transfers from their organization. They’re especially critical for companies that must comply with industry regulations requiring encrypted data transfers, like PCI DSS and HIPPA. The best FTP for Mac software will provide:
- Enhanced Efficiency: Third-party tools can handle large file transfers (>3GB) and enable users to upload or download multiple files at once, avoiding the lag often associated with individual uploads/downloads. Many even boast intuitive web browsers and mobile device interfaces, so you can view, upload, and download documents in very little time from virtually anywhere. Drag-and-drop features and the power to easily add file transfer users and groups further drive efficiency home with these third-party offerings.
- Greater Security: A proper FTP for Mac leverages FTPS protocol for file transfers, encrypting files using SSL or TLS cryptographic protocol, to protect data from accidental exposure or tampering attackers. With these measures, you can rest assured as you send files over both IPv4 and IPv6 networks. This type of software will also ensure no data is stored in the DMZ to comply with PCI and other regulatory frameworks.
- FTP Monitoring and Management: Take things a step further with third-party tools that allow you to monitor file transfer statistics, storage, permissions, access, and more from a real-time, intuitive management console and FTP server log. You can define the limits for the number of sessions on the server, block the IP address of a timed-out session, and enable settings to require reverse DNS names. This bird’s-eye view of activity helps you quickly address any errors or security threats that arise.
Free Ftp Software For Mac Os X
- Automation: With tools that offer automation, you can move or delete files after transfer and delete or reset usernames and passwords after a predetermined number of days, all without lifting a finger.
Mac Os Ftp Command
Signing up with third-party software is a must. I recommend SolarWinds Serv-U. These FTP and MFT tools help simplify file transfers, implement critical security protocols, and ensure even your largest files get where they need to go.
Recommended Reading:
Best Remote Support Software in 2020: If you’re looking for remote support software specifically, rather than file transfer functionality, this is the list for you. These are the best 2020 software options for remote troubleshooting, which is a must for most IT professionals these days.