WinSCP
With WinSCP, you can move files between your Windows PC, web hosting and server via SFTP, FTPS and WebDAV.
Developer Martin Prikryl
Version 6.5.7 · Open source · Windows
Looking for an alternative to WinSCP?Compare Cyberduck, Mountain Duck, Rclone.Compare alternativesYou can see your local files and the contents of a server next to each other. This allows you to update a website, download a folder or manage files on a Raspberry Pi without any terminal commands. WinSCP supports various transfer protocols; which you use depends on your hosting or server. You can save connections and automate recurring transfers with scripts. The built-in text editor is useful for small changes on the server. Work with important configuration files first on a copy and check that the app is still working properly after uploading.
Compare WinSCP with alternatives
For file transfer to a server, compare protocols, key support and handling many files. A program that connects storage as a disk gives a different method than a loose transfer client. Check the authentication and supported storage service before switching.
| Software | What can it do? | Platform and licence |
|---|---|---|
| WinSCPYou are viewing this app | You exchange files with servers via SFTP and FTP in a Windows client with two-panel control. You can also automate transfers. | WindowsOpen source |
| CyberduckView this alternative | You open supported servers and cloud storage via a graphical transfer client. The service profiles and support for external storage are an important reason to choose this app. | Windows, macOSOpen source |
| Mountain DuckView this alternative | You connect supported server and cloud storage as a disk in your file manager. As a result, you work differently than in a separate upload and download interface. | Windows, macOSPaid |
| RcloneView this alternative | You copy, synchronize and connect many supported storage services via the command line. This gives automation possibilities, but requires careful configuration. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source |
Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.
Who is it for?
WinSCP is especially useful when you manage web hosting, your own server or network equipment with SFTP access. For local directories only Explorer is enough.
Getting started
Choose the Windows installation or portable version. Enter the protocol, server address and your username and check the host key before sending files.
Privacy
Choose SFTP or FTPS for encrypted transport. Just FTP doesn't protect your login credentials. At the first connection check the host key via another reliable channel.
Good to know
WinSCP does not provide any storage space or server account. You need a accessible server where your account can read or write the intended files.
Please note
Save a backup before you overwrite server files. A synchronization can also perform removals; always check the direction and proposed changes.
Advantages
- You manage local and external folders next to each other.
- You can automate transfers.
- You have a built-in text editor and different connection protocols.
Things to consider
- You need valid server data and access rights.
- A wrong synchronization direction can overwrite files.
- The desktop app is intended for Windows.
Download WinSCP
The download page opens in a new tab.
Provider’s website · winscp.net
Version history
6.5.7
The SSH components have been updated to Putty 0.85, with solutions for security issues. Translations and the dark view have also been updated.
You'll get improvements in the underlying connection components. After updating check your saved connections and scripts with a small transfer.
Report a new version
Our verdict
WinSCP is a targeted choice when you want to manage files on a server and control each transfer. Especially the combination of map display and automation makes it useful for regular maintenance.
The app adds something especially if you regularly use the same server folders or want to make transfers repeatable. Check with an insignificant file the destination folder and whether recovery is going well. A successful connection means nothing about your write permissions or chosen location. For occasionally sharing a file with another person, server management is more extensive than necessary; for conscious maintenance, identifyable connections and folders give proper clues.
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