This post will provide a detailed comparison of Cyberduck and FileZilla. We\u2019ll also discuss their pros and cons. Let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Is an FTP Client?<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When you create a website, your core files are stored on your web host\u2019s server. File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a method of transferring data between this server and your computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Essentially, an FTP client is software that enables you to access your site files directly. By downloading this program, you can connect to the server from your computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With an FTP client, you can easily upload, edit, and download your website\u2019s files. For example, you may want to modify your wp-config.php<\/i> file to disable automatic updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some additional tasks you can complete with an FTP client:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Change file permissions<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Solve common WordPress errors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bulk upload files to your WordPress Media Library<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Install or deactivate plugins and themes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, it enables you to access your site even when it\u2019s down. For example, if you encounter errors or issues like the White Screen of Death (WSoD)<\/a>, you may become locked out of your WordPress dashboard. Using an FTP client, you can access your site\u2019s root directory and troubleshoot the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some programs also support Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) connections<\/a>. This means they use a Secure Shell (SSH) connection<\/a> to make the process safer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your web host may use a file manager, which functions the same way as an FTP client; However, instead of downloading a third-party program to your computer, you can use the file manager in your hosting account to access your site\u2019s files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019ve decided to use an FTP client, you may not know which program to use. To make this decision easier, let\u2019s discuss the two popular options: Cyberduck and FileZilla.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An Introduction to Cyberduck<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cyberduck<\/a> is an easy-to-use program that supports both FTP and SFTP connections. It has a beginner-friendly user interface and is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Cyberduck](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAt first glance, Cyberduck may not seem that different from other FTP clients. However, it does have some features that you might find particularly useful. Let\u2019s review some of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Originally, Cyberduck was developed as an FTP client for Mac users. Now, it has become compatible with Windows operating systems as well. Cyberduck is available for download<\/a> directly from its website or the Mac and Microsoft app stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Its modern and minimalist interface makes Cyberduck stand apart from other options. The UI is fully compatible with macOS computers, seamlessly blending into the well-known Mac aesthetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some important features included with Cyberduck:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Compatibility with macOS and Windows operating systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- FTP and SFTP connections<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Third-party cloud storage in Google Drive, Microsoft Azure, Dropbox, and more<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cryptomator for encrypted, secure file transfers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Integration with external file editors<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ability to share files with a URL generator<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bookmarking tool to log history, imports, and files<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Quick Look feature for file browsing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 30+ languages<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cyberduck is a feature-packed FTP client with a minimal and easy-to-use UI. It\u2019s free software that simplifies file management. Let\u2019s take a closer look at its advantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
One of Cyberduck\u2019s advantages is its easy setup process. You\u2019ll simply need to download the correct version for your operating system. Since it supports both Mac and Windows, Cyberduck is a flexible FTP client:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nOnce you\u2019ve installed the app, you can create a new connection by entering information about your server, port, username, and password. You\u2019ll also be able to change the protocol method:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nTo edit a file, right-click on it and select your preferred text editor:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nCyberduck also comes with third-party storage locations, making it easy to share files with other users. It supports cloud services<\/a> like Amazon S3, OpenStack Swift, Azure, Backblaze B2, Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It also lets you create bookmarks that store details about your different FTP connections. You can drag and drop these bookmarks into the Finder app and import them from third-party software:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAnother unique feature of Cyberduck is the Quick Look. This gives you a preview of your selected file without downloading it. Instead, you\u2019ll just need to press the space key:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAdditionally, Cyberduck has its own command line interface<\/a>. You can also integrate this program with other tools like Keychain and Bonjour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you have a Mac or Windows computer, you\u2019ll be able to connect to your server using Cyberduck. However, the program may be slightly more compatible with Mac users. Plus, it doesn\u2019t support Linux operating systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s also important to note that Cyberduck\u2019s interface is very minimal. As a result, some users might find it too simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, Cyberduck isn\u2019t divided into side-by-side panels. This makes it less efficient when transferring files to and from your server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cyberduck is completely free to use, but it will display pop-ups that request donations. To remove them, you\u2019ll have to become a contributor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You might also encounter some speed issues. Since Cyberduck has high-end security measures<\/a>, this can slow down file transfers. So if you want a fast FTP client, you may need to look for an alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An Introduction to FileZilla<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
FileZilla<\/a> is one of the most popular FTP clients. Similar to Cyberduck, this open-source software falls under the GNU (General Public License), making it completely free to use:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nFileZilla is often the go-to choice for developers due to its quick setup, variety of protocols, and ease of use. Plus, there is a comprehensive knowledge base where you can browse tutorials and troubleshooting methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
FileZilla is a very flexible program. Since it is compatible with many different operating systems, virtually anyone can use this tool to access their site files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plus, the interface is incredibly beginner-friendly. For example, in the main window, you\u2019ll see side-by-side displays of your local and remote server files. This enables you to easily drag-and-drop files from one location to another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some features you can expect in FileZilla:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Compatibility with Linux, macOS, and Windows operating systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- FTP, SFTP, and FTPS protocols<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Third-party cloud storage in Google Drive, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, Dropbox, and more<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Encrypted master password<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Search, filter, and compare files<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Site Manager for organizing multiple sites and bookmarks<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Synchronization with Site Manager data<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Command line interface<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 50+ languages<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
As you can see, FileZilla has a wealth of features. Let\u2019s discuss some of its pros in more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As a beginner, you may be looking for an FTP client that enables you to learn file management without having to deal with a complicated interface. With FileZilla, you can do just that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Similar to Cyberduck, you\u2019ll have to choose the correct download option based on your computer type. In the installed app, you can use the Quickconnect<\/i> option to easily connect to a remote server:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe Site Manager lets you change the protocol if needed. Although it will default to FTP connections, you can update this to SFTP:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nOnce you\u2019ve set it up, you\u2019ll see your local files and remote site in two side-by-side boxes. You can then drag and drop files between them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the main advantages of FileZilla is that it supports large file transfers without running slowly:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWhen you right-click on a file, you\u2019ll see options for downloading, editing, and creating new directories. You can also add new files, delete unnecessary ones, and update file permissions:<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAlong with being user-friendly, FileZilla performs frequent software updates. Although the interface may appear slightly dated, there are continuous bug fixes and performance improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
FileZilla is the trusted FTP client for many users, but it has had a few controversies regarding its security. In a few cases, FileZilla was flagged for having malware<\/a> in its product bundles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In 2013, SourceForge was FileZilla\u2019s hosting site. At the time, the SourceForge installer bundled adware<\/a> into the program, and as a result, some users found unwanted changes to their toolbars, homepages, and search providers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As recently as 2018, users continued to see adware in FileZilla installers<\/a>. A few cases resulted in unwanted programs, miners, rootkits, and trojans. This caused some security researchers to advise against using FileZilla.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To remove these ads, you\u2019ll have to upgrade to FileZilla Pro<\/a>, which costs $19.99. You can also avoid this adware by downloading FileZilla directly from the main website. This will give you a more secure connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cyberduck vs FileZilla: Which Is the Better FTP Client?<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Before making changes to your server, you\u2019ll want to find the best FTP client for the job. This can speed up your workflow<\/a>, enabling you to perform many management tasks<\/a> in a fraction of the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cyberduck and FileZilla are well-designed FTP clients that you can use to open, edit, and download files. However, there are a few key differences to keep in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since FileZilla supports Linux, macOS, and Windows operating systems, it\u2019s a more flexible option. Cyberduck is not Linux-compatible, and its interface is best suited for Mac users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many developers prefer FileZilla because its main window is separated into different boxes. As a result, you can view your local files and remote server in the same place and easily transfer files between them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, Cyberduck has a more minimalistic design. It will only display your site files, but you may find this simple layout easier to use. Plus, it won\u2019t install adware on your computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To choose between the two, you\u2019ll need to evaluate your priorities. FileZilla can be a better option if you\u2019d like a fast FTP client with a visually intuitive interface. However, Cyberduck is known to be more secure, with a simple and straightforward dashboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alternatively, there are other free FTP clients that can easily handle file editing and data transfers. If you need additional options, check out Free FTP<\/a> by CoffeeCup and WinSCP<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choose the Right FTP Client<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you want to access your WordPress files, you\u2019ll need a reliable FTP client. Cyberduck<\/a> and FileZilla<\/a> are two popular programs that can be used on different operating systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FileZilla is a flexible FTP client with drag-and-drop capability and a side-by-side display. On the other hand, Cyberduck has a macOS-friendly modern interface and many external storage locations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To receive more software reviews and how-to guides, you can subscribe to the DreamHost blog. We\u2019ll send new content straight to your inbox!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- 50+ languages<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Solve common WordPress errors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
![\"Cyberduck](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/cyberduck.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"Cyberduck](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/cyberduck-free-download.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"Cyberduck](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/cyberduck-add-new-ftp-connection.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"Cyberduck](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/edit-with.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"Cyberduck](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/cyberduck-ftp-connections.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"Cyberduck](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/cyberduck-file-preview.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"FileZilla](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/download-filezilla.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"FileZilla](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/filezilla-ftp-quickconnect.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"FileZilla](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/ftp-site-manager.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"FileZilla](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/ffilezilla-ftp-connection-windows.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"FileZilla](\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/view-edit-htaccess-file.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n