6 Best FTP Clients for Mac and Windows WordPress Users

Recently, while discussing how to use FTP to upload files to WordPress, one of our users asked us to recommend FTP clients for Windows and Mac.

FTP clients allow you to access, edit, and transfer files without having to visit your hosting cPanel or WordPress dashboard.

At WPBeginner, our team of web developers has used lots of FTP tools. While preferences vary, most of us rely on FileZilla for its flexibility and cross-platform support. It’s free, reliable, and easy to use.

That said, for this article, we’ve hand-picked the 6 best FTP clients for Mac and Windows. We focused on tools that are secure, beginner-friendly, and make file management easier.

Don’t have much time? Then you can check out this quick glance at the 6 best FTP clients featured in this article:

#	FTP Clients	Platforms	Pricing
🥇	WinSCP	Windows	Free
🥈	Cyberduck	Windows and Mac	Free
🥉	Transmit	Mac	Freemium Paid version costs $45
4	Free FTP	Windows	Freemium Paid version costs $39
5	FileZilla	Windows, Mac, Linux	Free
6	WS_FTP Professional	Windows	Starting from $54.95

What Is an FTP Client and Why Do You Need It?

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) allows you to upload files from your computer to your WordPress site. In order to use FTP, you will need an FTP client, which is a desktop app that connects your computer to your WordPress hosting account.

It provides an easy-to-use graphics user interface so that you can perform all FTP functions, such as copy, upload, delete, rename, and edit files/folders on your WordPress site.

Here are a few use cases for using an FTP client:

• Installing WordPress themes and plugins directly
• Changing the files within your themes and plugins
• Manually deactivating plugins
• Bulk upload large media files or a large number of files
• Customizing core WordPress files, such as .htaccess
• Fixing common WordPress errors on your site, like theme conflicts, internal server errors, and compatibility issues

It’s not necessary to install an FTP client to use WordPress. However, the most common reason for using one is to access files when your site is down.

How to Use an FTP Client

You will need an FTP username and password to connect to your WordPress site. These details can be found in the email you got when you first started your blog and signed up for a web hosting account.

You can also get this information from your web hosting cPanel dashboard or ask for support, and they will email it to you.

Once you have this information, you can connect to your website.

First, you will need to launch your FTP client and enter your FTP username, password, and host (usually your website address, e.g., wpbeginner.com), and then click on the connect button.

The host is usually your website’s URL (e.g., wpbeginner.com).

If you do not enter anything in the port field, then your FTP client will connect using the plain FTP protocol on port 21.

You can use port 22 to connect to your server using SFTP, which encrypts information before sending it to your web server. This reduces the chances of hackers stealing your FTP password or sniffing for information.

For more details, you can see our guide on how to use FTP to upload files to WordPress.

How We Test and Review FTP Clients

There are lots of paid and free FTP clients available for different CMS platforms and operating systems. However, not all of them have an easy-to-use interface or the necessary features to make editing WordPress files easier.

Here are several factors we thought about when reviewing each FTP client:

• Advanced Features: We checked if the client offers advanced capabilities like folder syncing or file editing.
• Security Options: For secure file transfers, we looked for clients that support encrypted protocols, like SFTP, SSH, or FTPS, and other security measures.
• Integration: We considered how well the client integrates with your chosen operating system (OS), whether you use Windows, Mac, or Linux.
• Customization: We checked if the FTP client uses specific code editors or organizes files efficiently.
• Reputation & Safety: We did our due diligence on the FTP client’s reputation, particularly in terms of security.
• Price: Some FTP clients are free, while others offer paid versions with extra features. So, we considered whether the extra features justify the cost.

Ready? Let’s take a look at our curated list of the best FTP clients for Mac and Windows WordPress users.

1. WinSCP

WinSCP is hands down one of the most powerful and feature-rich FTP clients for Windows. While the user interface may seem a bit cluttered at first glance, it’s surprisingly easy to navigate once you dive in. We’ve used it countless times for its reliability in handling large files and secure transfers, and it never disappoints.

On the left, you’ll see your local files, and on the right, the files on your server. It’s a breeze to click and manage your transfers, whether uploading, downloading, or editing files on the go.

For advanced users, WinSCP offers everything you could want from a robust FTP client.

We also found that it supports SFTP, SSH, and FTP, so you’re covered no matter the protocol. Assigning default editors and handling complex file structures is effortless, making this one of our top picks for professionals.

Platform: Windows
Price: Free

2. Cyberduck

CyberDuck stands out as one of the easiest FTP clients to use, whether you’re just getting started or you’re an experienced pro. We’ve found it particularly user-friendly for those working on both Windows and Mac.

What really sets CyberDuck apart for Mac users is how well it integrates into the native environment. During our research, we discovered that not all cross-platform tools can do this.

Cyberduck supports keychains for storing credentials and the Finder feature for locating files. You can easily choose your preferred code editor, open files with a single click, and get to work quickly.

Platform: Windows, Mac
Price: Free

3. Transmit

If you’re a Mac user, you’ve probably heard of Transmit – and for good reason. Transmit is the go-to FTP client for web developers on macOS, offering unmatched speed, file syncing, and seamless integration with the Mac interface.

Transmit’s ability to add shortcuts to Finder as favorites is a real time-saver, and we love how well it handles large-scale transfers. Plus, it supports SSH, SFTP, FTP, and FTPS, making it versatile for any job.

The built-in code editor is a bonus for quick tweaks. Although, in our honest opinion, it’s no replacement for a full editor.

All in all, we strongly recommend Transmit for Mac users thanks to its ease of use and power.

Platform: Mac
Price: Free, Paid version for $45

4. Free FTP

Free FTP by Coffee House is a solid choice for Windows users looking for a simple, intuitive FTP client. We often recommend it to beginners because it’s straightforward yet powerful enough for everyday tasks.

When testing it out, we learned that it supports FTP, SFTP, and FTPS, and integrates seamlessly with Windows. One standout feature is the history function, which saves you the hassle of remembering where your files are stored.

The paid version, Direct FTP, comes with added features like a built-in code editor and image viewer, which can be helpful for developers.

Platform: Windows
Price: Free, Paid version for $39

5. FileZilla

FileZilla is a favorite among users who need a cross-platform FTP client. It’s lightweight and easy to use, making it one of the most popular free options. We personally have also used it on multiple occasions across Windows, Mac, and Linux, and it performs well in general file transfers.

However, one major downside is the adware that’s sometimes bundled with the Windows installer. If you’re not paying attention, you could end up with unwanted software.

For this reason, we recommend that experienced users download it directly from the official site. On the other hand, Linux users will find it safely available in their distribution’s repositories.

Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
Price: Free

6. WS_FTP Professional

WS_FTP Professional is a premium FTP client, and we’d recommend it for users needing enterprise-grade security and advanced features.

This tool takes security seriously, with SSH, 256-bit AES, and OpenPGP encryption. We found this to be excellent for sensitive data transfers.

The drag-and-drop interface is user-friendly, and the ability to schedule transfers is a lifesaver for handling routine uploads. WS_FTP may come with a price tag, but it’s worth the investment for businesses that need speed, security, and advanced functionality.

Platform: Windows
Price: From $54.95

Bonus: ForkLift (Mac)

ForkLift is a powerful file manager and transfer client made just for Mac users, and it’s one of our top recommendations for anyone who works with files regularly. Its standout feature is the dual-pane layout, which makes comparing and moving files between different locations super easy.

What really makes ForkLift shine, though, is its support for remote connections, like Amazon S3 and Google Drive. This means you can manage files both locally and in the cloud from one place. We love how you can connect to multiple servers at once, making it perfect for anyone juggling multiple transfers.

The drag-and-drop system is smooth and easy to use, with a clean interface that keeps things simple and clutter-free.

Then, the side-by-side comparison is another great feature, allowing you to view and transfer files in one window. It’s straightforward, efficient, and built to streamline your workflow.

What’s the Best FTP Client?

WinSCP is the best free FTP client, allowing for transfers using FTP, SFTP, SCP, FTPS, s3, and WebDAV. With its text editor integration and intuitive interface, it’s a good option for most beginners.

Another good option is FileZilla for people looking to transfer large files of more than 4GB.

Best FTP Client for Uploading Files to WordPress FAQ

If you’re new to FTP or just need a refresher, here are answers to some common questions about using FTP clients with WordPress. We’ve got you covered with everything from why FTP is important to choosing the best tools for the job.

Why do you need FTP access to your WordPress server?

FTP access lets you directly manage your website’s files. This can be essential for tasks like troubleshooting, editing files that can’t be accessed through the WordPress dashboard, or uploading large media files. If your site crashes or you lose admin access, FTP is a reliable way to get back in and fix things manually.

What’s better, using the command line or an app for FTP?

It depends on your comfort level. If you’re comfortable with the command line, it offers faster, more direct control over file transfers. But, for most users, an app like ForkLift (for Mac) or WinSCP (for Windows) makes the process much easier with a graphical interface, drag-and-drop features, and a simple setup. Apps are generally more user-friendly, especially if you’re new to FTP.

What is a good text editor with FTP editing?

For a good text editor with built-in FTP editing, Transmit for Mac is an excellent choice. It seamlessly integrates your remote files with its text editor, making quick edits a breeze. For Windows, you could pair WinSCP with a powerful text editor like Notepad++ or Sublime Text.

What is the difference between FTP and CPanel?

FTP and cPanel both help you manage website files, but they work differently. FTP is focused purely on file transfers, making it faster and simpler for uploading and downloading files. cPanel, on the other hand, offers a full suite of web management tools. It can be used for file transfers, but it also handles tasks like managing databases, email, and domain settings.

Why would you use FTP to upload a website?

FTP offers flexibility and control. It’s faster for uploading large files or entire websites compared to using the WordPress admin interface. FTP also allows you to work with files that aren’t easily managed through WordPress, like hidden configuration files. Plus, FTP can be a lifesaver if your site’s dashboard is inaccessible due to an error or update failure.

What’s a good FTP client with auto sync for Mac?

For auto-syncing files, Transmit is one of the best FTP clients for Mac. It supports folder syncing, so you can keep your local and remote files updated without manually copying over changes. It’s fast, reliable, and integrates beautifully with the Mac environment.

What’s the best Mac equivalent to WinSCP for SFTP/FTP?

The best Mac alternative to WinSCP is ForkLift. It’s designed specifically for Mac users and offers dual-pane file management, which is similar to the intuitive layout of WinSCP. With ForkLift, you can easily manage SFTP and FTP connections, making it a great choice for file transfers on a Mac.

Further Reading

If you’re looking to expand your knowledge about using FTP with WordPress, here are some helpful resources that dive deeper into specific tasks. These guides will walk you through practical steps to manage your site more efficiently using FTP:

• What Is FTP?
• How to Use FTP to Upload Files to WordPress for Beginners
• How to Add an Admin User in WordPress Using FTP
• How to Manually Update WordPress Plugins via FTP
• How to Add an FTP-Like File Manager in Your WordPress Dashboard
• How to Deactivate All Plugins When Not Able to Access WP-Admin
• How to Fix File and Folder Permissions Error in WordPress
• How to Fix WordPress Stuck in Maintenance Mode

We hope this article helped you find the best FTP client for uploading files to WordPress. You may also want to take a look at our guide on how to use WordPress for document management or file management and our expert picks of the best WordPress activity log and tracking plugins.

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