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Jason Parker
The smart way to transfer files

Jason Parker
Contributing Editor, Downloads
Monday, Apr. 5, 2004
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Back in the dawn of Internet time, there was FTP, a protocol that let you upload and download apps and documents to and from servers around the world. While you can still do that with FTP software, its main use these days is to upload and download files to and from Web servers as part of maintaining a Web site.

Whatever you use it for, a good FTP client should make those processes fast and painless, eliminate unnecessary steps, and support common security protocols. But with so many FTP clients to choose from, how do you know which one to use? I've tried a number of different clients and found many that work quite nicely. What's most important is finding one that best meets your specific needs. Here are three of my current favorites.

FTP Commander offers a side-by-side interface that lets you drag and drop files to and from servers. It has all the advanced features you might need, along with a long list of preset servers you can explore for files and documents. (Shareware/Windows)

Robo-FTP lets you set up automated, unattended transfers, with wizards to help you get started. The only drawback to this app is its lack of integrated scripting, but the automation tools alone make it worth a try. (Shareware/Windows)

Transmit, an excellent client for Mac OS X, offers drag-and-drop support, mirrored folder and file synchronization, and contextual menus for easy navigation. It also has a built-in text editor for on-the-fly editing. (Shareware/Mac)

What do you think? What's your favorite FTP client? How much do you use FTP (if at all)? TalkBack to me below!

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