FileZillaLinux
vs
WS_FTPWindows
FileZilla as a Linux alternative to WS_FTP
Updated
Our verdict
FileZilla is a solid replacement for WS_FTP for most Linux users who need reliable FTP, FTPS, and SFTP transfers. It covers the core needs: secure authentication, queue management, and directory synchronization. However, it is a client-only tool, so if you relied on WS_FTP Server, you need a separate solution. The interface is familiar and functional, though less polished than the commercial original. It is ideal for IT professionals and developers who want a free, open-source alternative without sacrificing essential transfer features.
- License
- GPL-2.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.71.1 (August 27, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols with secure authentication options.
- Includes a transfer queue with speed limits and resume capabilities for large files.
- Features directory comparison and synchronized browsing to manage remote folders.
- Offers a Site Manager to store connection details and settings.
What is different
- FileZilla is a client only; WS_FTP includes a full server component.
- WS_FTP offers advanced scripting and automation tools not present in FileZilla.
- FileZilla lacks the specific enterprise-grade reporting and audit features of WS_FTP.
- WS_FTP is commercial with dedicated support; FileZilla relies on community forums and documentation.
Opening your WS_FTP files
FileZilla does not natively open WS_FTP project files. You will need to manually recreate your site connections in the FileZilla Site Manager. While you can export a list of sites from WS_FTP, there is no direct import function, so expect to re-enter hostnames, ports, and credentials for each saved location.
Switching from WS_FTP to FileZilla, step by step
- Install FileZilla from your distribution’s package manager or Flathub.
- Open the Site Manager and create new entries for each WS_FTP connection.
- Configure authentication methods, including key files or certificates, for each site.
- Set up transfer queue preferences and speed limits to match your previous workflow.
- Test connections to verify secure protocols and directory synchronization work correctly.
Key features of FileZilla
- Supports FTP, FTPS (FTP over TLS) and SFTP
- IPv6 and proxy (HTTP, SOCKS5, FTP) support
- Site Manager with transfer queue and speed limits
- Drag‑and‑drop, bookmark and filename filters
- Directory comparison and synchronized browsing
- Resume of large files >4 GB
- Remote file search and logging to file
- Multilingual interface
How to install FileZilla on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.filezillaproject.Filezillasudo apt install filezillasudo apt install filezillasudo dnf install filezillasudo pacman -S filezillasudo zypper install filezillaFrequently asked questions
Does FileZilla support SFTP?
Yes, FileZilla fully supports SFTP in addition to FTP and FTPS, covering all standard secure file transfer protocols.
Can I use FileZilla as a server?
No, the standard FileZilla client is only for connecting to servers. If you need a server, you must install FileZilla Server separately, which is a different application.
Is FileZilla stable on Linux?
Yes, it is widely packaged in major distributions like Debian, Fedora, and Ubuntu, and is considered stable and reliable for daily use.
