FTP for Beginners

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. Basically FTP is the way that files (scripts, images & etc) are moved to and from a website. There are many different FTP programs out there and lots of them are free. As far as I can tell the free FTP clients are just as functional as those you pay for, so there really isn’t any reason to spend your money for FTP.

Here’s a list of the top FTP free downloads

CyberDuck
Rbrowser
FileZilla
NCftp
FlashFXT
SmartFTP

Most of these have versions for both Mac and Windows. Most of them also have a premium version with enhancements that can be purchased for a small fee. But check out the free version first. It might be all you need.

One of the handiest features an FTP client can have is automating the file transfers, especially if you are moving large files or lots of them. When you automate the process you can schedule your transfer to run in the middle of the night (or whenever is most convenient) and eliminate your involvement. Automation is also good if you move the same files over and over. Check the documentation of the client you like to make sure it includes automation.

Installing and setting the programs up is fairly easy. Most of the settings on the various clients are very similar. In general
then default settings will work for most uses. You will need the server name where the website resides and your login and password.

The best way to learn to FTP is to install a client set it up and give it a shot. All of the FTP clients mentioned above have a
‘drag and drop’ feature just like you’re used to. Just grab a file off your computer and drop it on the server (or vice versa).

One area of the FTP experience that need to be mentioned is security. A large percentage of website hacks are due to stolen
FTP passwords. If your web host offer secure FTP (SFTP) definitely use that. Make sure that the client you choose also implements SFTP. Most people think their FTP passwords are stolen from their webserver. However most times passwords are stolen from your home or business computer. So make sure that your computer is malware and virus free.

Below are some links you may find helpful in keeping your website secure.

http://blog.unmaskparasites.com/2009/09/23/10-ftp-clients-malware-steals-credentials-from/
http://blog.unmaskparasites.com/2009/09/01/beware-filezilla-doesnt-protect-your-ftp-passwords/