For Linux users, the right tool can greatly improve your workflow. File Transfer Protocol (FTP) clients are indispensable for transferring files between your local machine and remote servers, especially if you’re a developer, system administrator, or tech enthusiast.
This guide will present you with a curated list of the 10 best Linux FTP clients of 2024.
What Makes a Good FTP Client?
Before we dive into the list, let’s clarify what constitutes a great FTP client:
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Ease of Use: Whether it’s a GUI or CLI, the interface should be intuitive.
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Protocol Support: Support for SFTP, FTPS, or SCP, in addition to FTP, is vital for modern workflows.
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Performance: The system shouldn’t bog down during large file transfers.
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Customizability: The ability to adjust settings is important.
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Platform Integration: Native Linux support with minimal dependencies.
1. lftp
Best for Command-Line Automation
lftp is a command-line FTP client renowned for its scripting capabilities, making it ideal for automating repetitive tasks such as backups and directory mirroring. Supporting modern protocols like FTPS and SFTP, it also boasts advanced features like segmented downloading for faster transfers.
Pros:
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Lightweight and scriptable.
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Supports FTP, FTPS, SFTP, HTTP/HTTPS.
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Efficiently mirrors directories.
Cons:
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Steeper learning curve.
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Documentation may not be beginner-friendly.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install lftp.
sudo apt install lftp
Step 1: Install lftp.
sudo dnf install lftp
Step 1: Install lftp.
sudo pacman -S lftp
2. FileZilla
The Reliable Workhorse
FileZilla is a widely recognized FTP client, offering a user-friendly interface and solid functionality. Its support for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols makes it versatile. File transfers are simplified with drag-and-drop functionality, and the tabbed interface allows for multiple simultaneous connections.
Pros:
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Simple GUI with drag-and-drop support.
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Supports FTP, SFTP, and FTPS.
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Active community and regular updates.
Cons:
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GUI may seem dated.
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May require adding a PPA for the latest version in some distros.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install FileZilla.
sudo apt install filezilla
Step 1: Install FileZilla.
sudo dnf install filezilla
Step 1: Install FileZilla.
sudo pacman -S filezilla
3. Midnight Commander (mc)
File Manager with FTP Prowess
Midnight Commander is a terminal-based file manager that comes with built-in FTP support. Its dual-pane interface streamlines local and remote file management. Highly portable and lightweight, it suits users who prefer a minimalist setup.
Pros:
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Embedded FTP client within a TUI file manager.
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Lightweight and highly portable.
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Supports SSH and SFTP.
Cons:
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Outdated design might deter new users.
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Requires familiarity with key bindings.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install Midnight Commander.
sudo apt install mc
Step 1: Install Midnight Commander.
sudo dnf install mc
Step 1: Install Midnight Commander.
sudo pacman -S mc
4. Krusader
Power-Packed File Manager with FTP
Krusader is a dual-pane file manager that handles FTP, SFTP, and local file management. It boasts extensive customization options and integrates seamlessly with KDE.
Pros:
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Dual-pane interface.
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Seamlessly integrates FTP and SFTP.
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Offers rich customization options.
Cons:
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Requires KDE dependencies.
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Might be overkill for simple FTP tasks.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install Krusader.
sudo apt install krusader
Step 1: Install Krusader.
sudo dnf install krusader
Step 1: Install Krusader.
sudo pacman -S krusader
5. KFTPgrabber
Designed for KDE Users
KFTPgrabber is specifically designed for KDE users, offering seamless integration with the Plasma desktop environment. Supporting FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, it includes features such as bookmark management and queue control.
Pros:
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Designed for KDE with tight Plasma integration.
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Supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP.
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Offers bookmark manager and queue control.
Cons:
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KDE dependencies.
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Development isn’t very active.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Add the Kubuntu backports PPA for updated versions.
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:kubuntu-ppa/backports
Step 2: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 3: Install KFTPgrabber.
sudo apt install kftpgrabber
Step 1: Install KFTPgrabber.
sudo dnf install kftpgrabber
Step 1: Install KFTPgrabber.
sudo pacman -S kftpgrabber
6. Cyberduck
Stylish and Cross-Platform
Cyberduck is a visually appealing FTP client that supports various protocols such as FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and cloud storage services. Its intuitive interface makes it a great choice for beginners, although it’s not as lightweight as native Linux clients.
Pros:
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Modern interface.
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Supports FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and more.
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Suitable for large file transfers.
Cons:
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GUI-heavy and somewhat bloated.
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Not native to Linux (requires dependencies).
Quick installation:
Cyberduck isn’t native to Linux and requires Flatpak:
Step 1: Install Flatpak (if not installed).
sudo apt install flatpak
Step 2: Add the Flathub repository.
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo
Step 3: Install Cyberduck via Flatpak.
flatpak install flathub io.cyberduck.Cyberduck
7. gFTP
A GUI for Basic Needs
gFTP is a lightweight and simple GUI client that caters to basic FTP requirements. It focuses on getting the job done without overwhelming you with features. However, its lack of modern protocol support like FTPS makes it better suited for uncomplicated use cases.
Pros:
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Lightweight and snappy.
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Simple GUI with no bloat.
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Still actively maintained despite being an older project.
Cons:
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Limited modern protocol support (no FTPS).
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Lacks modern design appeal.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install gFTP.
sudo apt install gftp
Step 1: Install gFTP.
sudo dnf install gftp
Step 1: Install gFTP.
sudo pacman -S gftp
8. Transfuse
SFTP-Focused Tool
Transfuse is a lightweight GUI client specifically designed for SFTP. It’s ideal for users who only require secure file transfers without the overhead of a full FTP client.
Pros:
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Optimized for SFTP.
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Simple GUI for drag-and-drop tasks.
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Lightweight and easy to install.
Cons:
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Limited to SFTP (not a full FTP client).
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Development pace is slow.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install Transfuse.
sudo apt install transfuse
Step 1: Install Transfuse.
sudo dnf install transfuse
Step 1: Install Transfuse.
sudo pacman -S transfuse
9. ncftp
Lightweight and Functional
ncftp is another command-line client that prioritizes simplicity and speed. While lacking support for modern protocols like FTPS, its session resume feature and minimal resource usage make it suitable for quick tasks.
Pros:
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Minimal resource usage.
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Advanced command-line capabilities.
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Session resume support.
Cons:
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Dated interface and commands.
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No modern protocol support (e.g., FTPS).
Quick installation:
Step 1: Update the package list.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install ncftp.
sudo apt install ncftp
Step 1: Install ncftp.
sudo dnf install ncftp
Step 1: Install ncftp.
sudo pacman -S ncftp
10. CrossFTP
The Java-Based All-Rounder
CrossFTP supports a wide range of protocols and features a tabbed interface for managing multiple connections. While the premium version unlocks additional features, the free version is adequate for basic tasks.
Pros:
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Multi-protocol support (FTP, FTPS, SFTP).
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Tabbed interface for multiple connections.
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Built-in ZIP and TAR management.
Cons:
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Relies on Java (dependency bloat).
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Premium features are locked behind a paywall.
Quick installation:
Step 1: Install Java.
sudo apt install default-jre
Step 2: Download CrossFTP from its website and run.
java -jar CrossFTP.jar
Selecting the ideal Linux FTP client hinges on your specific requirements. Whether you prefer a GUI or a CLI, there are various options to explore to find the perfect fit.