FileZilla Editor's Review

In an age of direct download sites, BitTorrent and WordPress, using FTP to transfer files to another person or to a website may seem old fashioned, but it remains surprisingly popular. The free FileZilla is one of the simplest and most effective ways to use FTP, to the point that there's little reason looking for a paid alternative.

For basic use, FileZilla couldn't be simpler: once you've logged in to the remote server, it's nothing more complicated than the drag and drop that will be familiar to anyone whose used Windows Explorer or its Mac/Linux equivalents.

There are some neat features to enhance use, such as being able to transfer a batch of files simultaneously or work with several servers at once. You can also continue to browse the server while a file is transferring, which reduces frustration.

Home users who are subject to download limits and "traffic shaping" can set up the program so that it restricts transfer speeds at particular times of day. This can also be useful at any time if you want to make sure you can still use the web while transferring. Sadly there isn't a simple option for scheduling a transfer to start at a later time.

It's worth noting that some of the more advanced security settings on the program aren't switched on by default, so it's worth taking a look round the options menus if you are transferring any sensitive data.

Pro's: Simple to use; some nice usability touches

Con's: Security settings may need adjustment

Conclusions: If you still need an FTP client, this is definitely the way to go