Who Uses FTP Software?

More than likely you have used an FTP program without knowing it if you have downloaded a large file from an online source, or if you have moved a large file computer–to–computer through the server within an intranet.

FTP software facilitates fast and secure transfers of files, especially large or complex files like images, video or private (encrypted) files. Transferring large image files through email is cumbersome and moving medical files electronically requires HIPPA compliance, FTP software speeds up large transfers and employs HIPPA compliant security protocols.

So, who uses FTP Software?

• P2P File Sharing Networks – P2P file sharing type sites use an FTP type program that can handle simultaneous transfers and supports anonymous or single use passwords.
• Download Sites – Shareware sites or sites that sell downloadable software, music, movies or other file types use a file transfer protocol to copy files from a remote server to a local computer.
• Businesses – Since large files are burdensome to transfer or are sensitive, businesses use FTP software for secure interoffice, inter–network or Internet transfers.
• Webmasters – Webmasters often maintain large sites or move complex or dynamic file types, a good FTP program can greatly increase a webmaster’s efficiency.
• Healthcare Providers – In order to be HIPPA compliant, health care providers must use 128–bit SSL transfer methods, nearly all FTP programs support this kind of secure transfer.

What to Look for in FTP Software

The first thing to consider when looking for an FTP program is: What are you going to use it for? Most FTP software providers offer free versions for non–commercial use or low cost licenses for commercial use.

The second consideration is the type of security you need. If you need SSL/TLS type secure transfers, look for a program that supports this; if you need Secure Shell (SSH2) transfers look for a program that supports that protocol and so on. In addition, you will want to select a program that is workable with the kind of firewall you use.

Webmasters might want to look for a program that has URL downloading, file comparing and synchronizing, a clipboard monitor and other useful webmaster tools; some even have an HTML editor for quick fixes.

Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate FTP Software:

• Security – This is one of the most significant functions an FTP program must perform well, not only should it provide secure transfers it also ought to work with common security programs, encryption methods and firewalls. Security features also include the capacity to verify transfer requests.
• Connectivity/ Transfer Abilities – Connection and transfer abilities include the ability to work with accepted code (ASCII and binary) as well as connection consistency, proxies and protocols. At the least, FTP programs must be compatible with popular code, include resume/reconnect ability and should support FTP, HTTP and Socks v5.
• User Tools – Most programs offer comparable user tools, which include drag & drop file transfers, transfer queues, a refresh button, backup tools and scheduling. The best programs also include the ability to set priority lists, clipboard monitoring, an internal HTML editor and offer non–English language interfaces.
• Technical Help/Support – Since FTP software can be difficult to configure it is imperative for providers to offer comprehensive product support through online and embedded help as well as an active user forum, telephone and email support.