FileZilla

What is FileZilla?

FileZilla is a free, open source File Transfer Protocol (FTP) application software used to transfer files between a local computer and an FTP server via the Internet. It is often used by web developers and administrators to upload, delete, and manage website files – including images and other assets.

For example, web pages designed on a user’s computer can be uploaded to a web server or web hosting service using FileZilla. It is also used to make changes to files and directories on the server or transfer large files that exceed size limits when using email or cloud storage.

Today, standard FTP is typically used for anonymous FTP (i.e., providing public files to anyone) and is an unencrypted file transfer. An important feature of the FileZilla client is that it supports secure file transfer protocols, including FTP Secure (FTPS) and SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), to encrypt data during transit.

FileZilla is available under the terms of the GNU General Public License (GPL) and can be freely used by anyone, including corporate entities. It supports Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms. Additionally, FileZilla also offers the FileZilla FTP server tool, but usually, the term “FileZilla” on its own refers to the FTP client.

How FileZilla Works

FileZilla works by establishing a connection between the computer and server, enabling dual-direction transfer of data over the Internet.

To use FileZilla, it must first be downloaded, installed, and configured before transferring files. Users provide the domain name or IP address, choose the file protocol, encryption type, and enter the username and password to establish a connection to the remote server.

Once connected, FileZilla will display two panels: the left panel shows local files and the right panel shows the server. Users can easily drag and drop files from the left panel to the appropriate directory on the right to upload files to the server – or vice versa to download files.

What is FileZilla Used For?

A commonly asked question about Filezilla, what is it? Well, in simple terms, FileZilla is software used to transfer files between a local computer and a remote host. Even some of the best website builders will offer support FTP services in addition to their web hosting management tool.

FileZilla is also used to:

• Migrate websites.
• Manage server directories and files (i.e., rename, delete, move, or change permissions).
• Transfer large files that exceed email or cloud storage limits.
• Backup files.

FileZilla Features

FileZilla features include:

• Drag & drop support
• HTTP/1.1, SOCKS5, and FTP-Proxy support
• IPv6 support
• Network configuration wizard
• Remote file editing
• Runs on Windows, Linux, *BSD, MacOS and more
• Supports FTP, FTP over SSL/TLS (FTPS), and SSH File Transfer Protocol
• Supports resume and transfer of large files >4GB
• Tabbed user interface (UI)

FileZilla Pro supports file connections and transfers for many cloud data storage services, including Google Drive, Amazon S3, OneDrive, Dropbox, WebDAV, Microsoft Azure, Rackspace Cloud, and others.

FileZilla Client vs. FileZilla Server

FileZilla Client is used to transfer files between a local computer and an FTP server. FileZilla Server, on the other hand, is an FTP server. Use this application to set up an FTP server to make files on a local computer available via FTP.

What to Consider When Using FileZilla?

FileZilla Pros and Cons

Does FileZilla Have Adware?

The default “download” button on the FileZilla website directs users to a “bundled offer” installer that may include adware. Many users report that this installer triggers warnings in anti-virus programs. During installation, users can opt out of the advertising material. Alternatively, select the “Show additional download options” page on the website to choose a different installer without adware.

If adware is still a concern, consider a FileZilla alternative such as Cyberduck or WinSCP.

The Bottom Line

The FileZilla definition is a free, open source FTP client used to transfer files between local computers and remote servers via the Internet. The application features a two-panel interface, making it easy to drag and drop files.

FileZilla is used to upload and download files, migrate websites, manage files, and backup or restore files. Premium features, including support for cloud storage protocols, are available in FileZilla Pro.

Like any FTP client, it is important to ensure connection settings are properly configured, select secure protocols like SFTP and FTPS to encrypt data during transfers, and regularly update the software to benefit from security patches.

FAQs