WinSCP
WinSCP is a free file transfer client that enables users to move files between a local computer and a remote server. It supports various protocols, including Amazon S3, FTP, SFTP, SCP, and WebDAV, making it capable of handling large file transfers efficiently.
Other file transfer tools include Bitvise, CyberDuck, FileZilla, and SecureFX, all of which allow safe document transfers between local and remote servers. Among them, FileZilla is particularly popular and works across multiple platforms. All these tools are open-source except for Bitvise and SecureFX, and they are compatible with Microsoft Windows PCs.
WinSCP is primarily used for transferring files across networks, whether individually or in bulk, and can also transfer entire directories. It supports quick renaming of files and folders with its built-in text editor.
What is WinSCP used for?
WinSCP offers a graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies the file transfer process. Upon launching the app, a login window prompts you to enter server details. You can select the file transfer protocol from a dropdown menu, with SFTP set as the default. Supported protocols include WebDAV, SCP, SFTP, S3, and FTP, and each automatically populates the correct port number (which can be manually adjusted).
The hostname field is located next to the port input, allowing either domain names or IP addresses. A username and password are needed for connection, and for servers requiring additional security, you can configure public and private key authentication through the 'Advanced' settings. Remote and local directory paths can also be specified for easier navigation.
WinSCP offers a wealth of settings to fine-tune your connection and file management experience.
WinSCP vs. PuTTY:
While WinSCP is a secure FTP client focused on file transfers through a graphical interface, PuTTY is a command-line SSH client primarily used to directly manage servers. WinSCP offers two interface styles: Commander and Explorer.
In Commander view, the interface is split into four sections: your local files on the left, remote server files on the right, a toolbar/menu at the top, and a transfer queue at the bottom. The layout is adjustable, allowing you to resize panels and hide or show sections. Each pane includes shortcut buttons and dropdowns for quickly switching drives and directories.
Navigation is simple: click the two dots to move up a directory, or double-click a folder to enter it.
User Interface (GUI):
The intuitive interface supports multiple ways to perform file transfers. Files can be uploaded from your local computer to a server or downloaded back. You can right-click on files or directories to upload or download, use dedicated buttons above the panes, or simply drag and drop items between the local and remote sides. Transfers are reflected on both sides once complete.
A Reliable File Sharing Tool:
WinSCP offers reliable directory synchronization and secure file sharing on Windows. It is an open-source project under the GNU General Public License and is available in various languages, such as Bengali, English, and Italian, making it accessible to users worldwide.
The developers frequently update WinSCP with new features and improvements, which are detailed on the official website.