gFTPLinux
vs
WinSCPWindows
gFTP as a Linux alternative to WinSCP
Updated
Our verdict
gFTP can serve as a replacement for WinSCP for users who need basic SFTP, FTP and SCP transfers on Linux. It offers a graphical GTK+ UI with bookmarks and multithreaded transfers, making it suitable for casual file‑transfer tasks. Power users who rely on advanced scripting, session logging, or integrated S3/WebDAV support will find it lacking, but for straightforward dual‑pane style work it is a solid, free alternative.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 2.9.1
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports SFTP, FTP and SCP protocols
- Graphical interface with file browser panes
- Bookmark/favorite management
- Password and key‑based authentication
What is different
- No built‑in WebDAV or S3 support
- Interface is single‑pane by default; dual‑pane must be arranged manually
- Lacks advanced session logging and scripting features found in WinSCP
- No integrated editor for remote files
Opening your WinSCP files
WinSCP stores session data in XML files; gFTP does not import that format. You can manually recreate sessions in gFTP using its bookmark system, but there is no direct import/export tool.
Switching from WinSCP to gFTP, step by step
- Install gFTP from your distribution's package manager (e.g., apt install gftp).
- Launch gFTP and configure a new site entry for each WinSCP session you need.
- Add your SSH keys or passwords in the authentication tab.
- Create bookmarks for frequently used directories.
- Arrange the panes to your preferred layout and test a transfer.
- Delete WinSCP once you are comfortable with gFTP.
Key features of gFTP
- Multithreaded transfers
- Support for FTP, FTPS, SFTP
- Graphical GTK+ interface
- Command‑line mode
- Built‑in bookmarks
- File comparison and synchronization
- Internationalised (45 languages)
How to install gFTP on Linux
sudo apt install gftpsudo apt install gftpsudo dnf install gftpFrequently asked questions
Can gFTP handle S3 or WebDAV connections?
No, gFTP does not include native S3 or WebDAV support; you would need a separate tool for those protocols.
Is gFTP suitable for automated transfers?
gFTP has a command‑line mode, but it lacks the robust scripting engine of WinSCP, so automation is more limited.
Does gFTP provide a dual‑pane view like WinSCP?
It offers a file list view; you can open two windows side‑by‑side to mimic dual panes, but it is not a built‑in dual‑pane layout.
