#9 – FileZilla

FileZilla is a Windows-based FTP (file transfer protocol) and SFTP (secure FTP) client. The FTP protocol predates HTTP on the Internet and for many years was the primary means for moving files around or distributing drivers and software updates.

FTP is such a staple of the Internet protocol suite that a command-line FTP client can be found on most any Internet-capable computer whether this is known or not, just type “ftp” into a command prompt. However, this necessitates the use of clunky commands to traverse directories – both on the remote system as well as your own, to transfer files using wildcards, and to change between binary and text file modes.

This is where a brilliant program like FileZilla comes in; it manages all the underlying complexity in a simple graphical interface. Both local and remote filesystems are displayed, with file transfer being a simple drag-and-drop affair. Progress is shown and best of all, sites can be mirrored whereby FileZilla senses and uploads only new or changed files.

FileZilla isn’t just an FTP client though; the project also provides FileZilla Server which is a straightforward but powerful FTP server for running on your own Windows-based machines. This can be used by individuals or companies alike with secure options decreasing risks.

This project has been awarded project of the month in the past, as well as a 2006 community choice award winner. It’s a highly active project with regular bug and security patches and is a well recommended choice for Internet-based file sharing. The lack of multiplatform support is unfortunate but, hey, this is open source; all the C++ code is there. It just needs a brave Linux developer to step up and make a port.