The Best SFTP and FTPS Servers

Do you need to send large amounts of data around your network reliably and securely? You need an SFTP server. There are several options, and in this guide, we identify the best free SFTP and FTPS server tools on the market.

These tools can address the following pain points of organizations:

• Security issues: caused by using unsecured protocols.
• File transfers: that do not meet compliance requirements.
• Excess time and effort: spent by your IT team to manage access and permissions.
• Inconsistent and unreliable file delivery.
• Scalability challenges: that come up when your organization grows.
• Integration barriers and incompatibilities.
• Poor visibility: into file transfers.

Our list of the best FREE SFTP and FTPS server tools

If you need to know more, explore our vendor highlight section just below, or skip to our detailed vendor reviews. 

Best SFTP and FTPS servers highlights

Key points to consider before choosing SFTP and FTPS servers

Having the right SFTP and FTPS servers is necessary for reliable and secure file transfers. More than anything, it’s important to have file transfer servers that fit into your organization’s security, future needs, and compliance requirements. Here are the important factors to consider while making this choice.

• Security: This is one of the core reasons for using SFTP or FTPS servers. Look for features like encryption, support for modern protocols, IP whitelisting, key or role-based access permissions, and granular control.
• Compliance: If you operate in regulated industries or have stringent compliance requirements, prioritize files that help meet these requirements.
• Performance: Before deciding, check how well the server handles multiple connections, large files, high transaction volumes, clustering, multi-threaded architecture, and more.
• Scalable: Ideally, you need a tool that can scale well with your growing transactions, without requiring constant upgrades.
• Deployment: it’s good to have a tool that is lightweight and deploys across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments. Servers that support DMZ configurations and virtual file systems are a plus.

The tools we have listed largely meet the above key aspects, making them ideal for different industries and use cases.

To dive deeper into how we incorporate these into our research and review methodology, skip to our detailed methodology section.

SFTP Servers

SFTP is an acronym for SSH File Transfer Protocol. Transferring files through an SFTP server is one of the safest ways to transmit data online. With an SSH FTP server tool, you can transfer files securely over an encrypted SSH connection.

Encrypting files with an SFTP server can prevent unauthorized access (which can help with things like HIPAA compliance). Many SFTP servers come bundled with SCP, which also protects files via SSH.

FTPS Servers

FTPS is an acronym for File Transfer Protocol over SSL, another secure alternative that lets you encrypt FTP transfers with SSL.

Many products combine FTPS and SFTP servers into one software program so you can choose the type of protection you need when transferring files. In this guide, we’re going to look at the top SFTP and FTPS servers on the market.

The best free SFTP and FTPS server tools

We’ve also reviewed as many as we could find, rating each one on factors including; easy-to-use software clients, multiple transfer capabilities, user authentication, and more. All the leading operating systems are covered, including Windows, Mac, and Linux.

1. JSCAPE MFT (FREE DEMO)

Operating systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, Solaris, AIX, and z/OS.

Best for: Scalable enterprise-grade SFTP and FTPS server.

Relevant for: IT and security teams that run SFTP/FTPS servers. Also, MSPs who manage hosted servers.

Price: Negotiated pricing.

JSCAPE MFT, a product of Redwood Software, implements SFTP, SCP, and FTPS within its client and server pair. The client isn’t distributed, but it is held on the same computer as the server unit. The users access the client over the network, or even across the internet, through a Web browser. The client includes a document viewer, which removes the need to transfer a file.

When we tested JSCAPE MFT we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

It offers SFTP and FTPS servers with event-driven automation, which means some jobs, like encryption and validation, run as soon as a file comes in or goes out. This automation saves time and effort and reduces the chances of errors.

Feature-in-focus: DMZ Reverse Proxy

This tool sends the incoming SFTP and FTPS sessions to the internal MFT server. In this process, the files pass through the gateway without getting written to disk, thereby reducing data exposure. It also helps to comply with standards like HIPAA and PCI-DSS.

Comparitech SupportScore

JSCAPE is an excellent product delivered by Redwood Software. As a company, Redwood Software has the size and revenue to adequately support customers and strongly support the continued development of its product. The company does not offer self-service documentation externally as a business model, resulting in a SupportScore of 80/100.

This score is not a reflection of the product, but the availability of self-service documentation. If you plan to shortlist and demo JSCAPE, we recommend asking directly about all available avenues for customer support to ensure this service is well-matched for your needs.

Why do we recommend it?

JSCAPE MFT offers SFTP, FTPS, and SCP for secure transfers. It is also able to move files through HTTP, HTTPS, and WebDAV. The client for the file transfer utility is Web based and hosted together with the server. The client can be accessed by users who have been granted usage rights in the corporate access rights manager, which also provides file access authorization.

The secure file transfer system is able to perform internal transfers and invite uploads or downloads for external users. The MFT package can also manage corporate syncing policy and organize local non-secure transfers, such as TFTP for network device configuration image movements.

The JSCAPE package includes a plugin for Microsoft Outlook. This limits the files that can be accessed for attachments. For example, the tool can limit access to a specific folder. Another feature in the service is the ability to transfer EDI messages with AS2 and OFTP2.

JSCAPE has created a fast file transfer system, called Accelerated File Transfer Protocol (AFTP). This isn’t a secure protocol but it can be used to move large files within the organization to a DMZ for distribution to outsiders.

Who is it recommended for?

JSCAPE MFT is a comprehensive package that offers many different channels for file movements and includes task automation features. These attributes are particularly useful for large organizations. MFT logs all file movements and controls access through the corporate access rights manager. MFT logs all file movements and controls access through the corporate access rights manager. These features make the package suitable for businesses that follow HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOX, or GDPR requirements.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to JSCAPE.

The software for JSCAPE MFT is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Solaris, AIX, and z/OS. You can get a free demo of JSCAPE MFT and a 7-day free trial following the demo.

2. Files.com SFTP Service (FREE TRIAL)

Operating system: Cloud-based with Windows and macOS clients available

Best for: Cloud-based MFT

Relevant for: IT teams of enterprises that operate in regulated sectors.

Price: Files.com offers three plans: Starter – $199/month or $2,099/year; Power – $499/month or $5,269/year; Enterprise – Custom.

Files.com is a cloud-based file platform with a built-in FTP and SFTP server. Being based on a remote server, this service is able to offer many more features than a traditional SFTP server. The Files.com system consists of cloud storage that acts as a buffer for all file activities.

When we tested Files.com we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

This is a single cloud-native platform that supports FTPS, SFTP, and MFT through the same console. Since it is cloud-based, you do not have to invest in additional servers or worry about maintenance. Moreover, it comes with advanced features, like advanced security and audit trails for compliance.

Feature-in-focus: Unified Interface

Files.com offers a unified interface through which you can access SFTP, TFTP, WebDAV, FTPS, AS2, and other services. This interface’s look and feel is similar across web, desktop, mobile, and CLI. You can also mount it on any device to access files like a local drive.

Comparitech SupportScore

While the company’s products are well-respected, Files.com’s size may limit its ability to provide a rapid, hands-on product support for every customer. There may be self-support documentation available to customers, but this is not visibly available to non-customers. These limitations resulted in Files.com receiving a 60/100 SupportScore. 

Note that this is not a reflection of Files.com as a product. We continue to find Files.com provides a solid SFTP service, but it may be better suited to companies that have adequate technical skills among their IT teams without much need of extra support to launch and maintain their software implementation.

Be aware that you may have longer wait times to troubleshoot potential issues. If you are shortlisting Files.com as your vendor, we recommend asking specifically about its customer and product support to verify if this is a good fit for your needs.

Why do we recommend it?

The Files.com service encourages you to upload files onto the provider’s cloud platform and email out links instead of sending out copies. The advantage of this strategy is that it allows your company and each individual user to maintain control over how those files can be accessed and revoking permissions means that the former recipient doesn’t get to keep a copy of the file. All transfers, storage, and viewing are protected by encryption.

Businesses can use Files.com as a pass-through when sending files to outsiders, storing a backup on the server in case of loss. It can also be used as a collaboration file storage – enabling several users to access and edit a document. Given that files can be left on the Files.com server, it can also be used as a backup service for important system files.

Files.com supports Single Sign On (SSO), Two Factor Authentication (2FA), Data Locality, Data Retention Management, Management Delegation, Audit Trails, Non-Repudiation, HIPAA, GDPR, and everything else needed for a secure and compliant Cloud Managed File Transfer solution.

The security offered by Files.com enhances transfer protocols because it enforces two-factor authentication for file access and uses the typical SFTP-strength protection for files during transmission.

Who is it recommended for?

Although there is a requirement for a minimum number of user accounts, which is five, the per-user charging of Files.com is a very scaleable service that is accessible to businesses of all sizes. The integration of the Microsoft 365 productivity suite and collaboration features means that this is a good cloud drive option for distributed teams and virtual offices.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to Files.com.

Files.com is a subscription service with a charge levied, per user, per month. The service is offered in three plan levels: Starter, Power, and Premier. The Starter plan requires a minimum of 5 users and provides a throughput of 1 TB per month. The Power plan includes a data throughput limit of 5 TB per month and requires a minimum of 15 users. The top plan, Premier, offers a data throughput capacity of 5 TB per month caters to at least 25 users. Files.com is available for a 7-day free trial, which can be extended on request.

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3. ExaVault (FREE TOOL)

Operating system: On Premises, works with all operating systems.

Best for: Flexible and secure file sharing software

Relevant for: SMBs and organizations that require compliance logging.

Price: The premium service starts at $99/month. A free plan is also available.

ExaVault, which is owned by Files.com, is an on-premises file transfer appliance that uses SFTP and FTPS protocols for secure file transfers. More importantly, it provides complete control and visibility into the transfer process, making it ideal for compliance. When we tested ExaVault, we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

ExaVault provides a branded file transfer platform that supports SFTP and FTPS services, and they can be accessed as a managed cloud service or as an on-premises appliance. Its audit and automation features, coupled with an intuitive interface, make it a good choice for SMBs.

Feature-in-focus: Branding Support

Using ExaVault, you can brand the interface with your logo, colors, and other elements of your portal for a unified experience. You can even create client-specific branding for the file upload pages.

Why do we recommend it?

One of the highlights of ExaVault is that it is an on-premises solution, which means all files and folders can remain within your infrastructure. At the same time, it supports secure file sharing, where users can create a shareable link with a single click. This link can be shared with internal and external stakeholders, who, in turn, can click on the link to access the file. However, for security and logging purposes, administrators can require a mandatory email or password to access the files. This measure reduces the chances of unauthorized access.

Moreover, it sends real-time notifications for file activities, so administrators can track which files have been accessed by whom. This tracking prevents insider threats and boosts the audit process.

Who is it recommended for?

ExaVault is well-suited for businesses of all sizes. In particular, it can come in handy for businesses that operate in regulated sectors and those that have to meet the stringent privacy and security requirements of standards like HIPAA and GDPR. During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to ExaVault.

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4. Cerberus FTP Server (FREE TRIAL)

Operating system: Windows and Windows Server

Best for: Secure and compliant SFTP/FTPS on Windows.

Relevant for: IT teams of regulated industries that use Windows servers.

Price: Three plans are available, namely: Professional – $1,999; Enterprise – $4,374; Enterprise Plus – $9,936. All prices are per year.

Cerberus FTP Server is a file transfer server owned by Redwood Software that supports SFTP and FTPS. The package can also transfer files over FTP, SCP, and HTTPS. It is available as an on-premises package for Windows and Windows Server. The bundle includes a built-in web server that users can access through any standard web browser.

When we tested Cerberus FTP Server we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

This tool supports a Windows-native environment for SFTP and FTPS functionalities. Its many features, like automation and directory integration, provide complete control for administrators to monitor file transfers. Its compliance capabilities also add value to organizations, especially those with stringent regulatory requirements.

Feature-in-focus: Event-driven Automation

A highlight of this tool is event-driven automation that requires no coding at all. With this feature, you can set triggers based on file transfers or folder scanning. You can even mention the actions that must be triggered when these events occur, enabling you to stay on top of all file and folder movements in your environment.

Comparitech SupportScore

Cerberus is owned by and supported by Redwood Software, a large software provider. As such, Cerberus earned a 88/100 SupportScore. This vendor is likely able to offer excellent product and customer support from integration to troubleshooting.

That may not be the case in every situation, however. If you shortlist Cerberus, we recommend you use this data to verify the kind of support you’ll receive as a customer.

Why do we recommend it?

This system is a high-end tool and not just a file transfer tool. The package includes both a server and a client, which are hosted together – users access the client remotely. The Cerberus FTP Server offers many more protocol options than just SFTP and FTPS and it can implement automated transfers.

Cerberus FTP Server is a flexible file transfer platform that works well over any protocol. It also comes with a dedicated IP Manager that automatically blocks suspicious IPs to prevent DoS and brute force attacks. Its built-in file integrity checks help keep your transfers secure.

The Cerberus FTP Server system offers a secure environment. Users need to log in to use the client and credentials are validated against Active Directory. It is also possible to implement a single sign-on environment by connecting to Okta.

There are three plans for the Cerberus package and higher editions, while being more expensive, provide more features. The top plan includes a performance monitoring service and also automated network monitoring. This service can identify rogue transfers. All plans include activity logging.

As well as user access, the tool offers opportunities for task automation. It is possible to set up virtual folders and group directories, which open up the options for file sharing and automated file transfers. The FTP server can be used to back up file download features in websites and it can also receive files uploaded through a Web interface.

Who is it recommended for?

The activity logging and user authentication features of this package make it suitable for use by companies that need to comply with data security standards, such as GDPR, PCI DSS, and HIPAA. This is a pricey system and so it is out of reach for small businesses.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to Cerberus FTP Server.

Cerberus FTP Server is an attractive package for mid-sized and large businesses. The system is delivered as a software package for Windows or Windows Server. The system is charged for on an annual subscription. There are three plans and the lowest of these, the Professional edition, costs $1,499 per year. The top plan, called the Enterprise Plus edition includes special security monitoring services and it costs $4,999 per year. Cerberus FTP Server is available for a 25-day free trial.

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5. SFTP To Go (FREE TRIAL)

Operating system: Cloud-based

Best for: A cloud-native SFTP/FTPS service.

Relevant for: Startups, SMBs, and those requiring secure and scalable file transfers.

Price: SFTP To Go offers three plans (all prices are per month): Small – $100; Professional – $500; Enterprise – Custom

SFTP To Go is a cloud-storage-as-a-service where you can securely store, transfer, share, and integrate files using protocols like SFTP, FTPS, S3, and HTTPS. Built on the AWS infrastructure, this platform is highly reliable and available. It is also easy to use, and at the same time, highly secure.

Our researchers liked the following features in SFTP To Go.

Unique buying proposition

This is a cloud-based SFTP/FTPS service that you can set up within minutes. Its web portal and APIs make it easy to integrate with the existing tech stack and workflows. Also, it is built on AWS for improved scalability. It comes with branding support and compliance features as well.

Feature-in-focus: Automated Workflows

A notable aspect of this tool is its automated workflows, which let you trigger actions from file events like uploads, downloads, deletions, and more. You can perform all these actions through real-time webhooks. Also, you can integrate with automation tools or custom processes.

Why do we recommend it?

SFTP To Go is easy to use, as you can transfer and share files through its intuitive web portal. There are no complicated processes involved, making it ideal for all users, regardless of their technical knowledge.

One of the highlights of SFTP To Go is its focus on security. It offers two kinds of authentication – accounts and credentials. Accounts are members of an organization who are authorized to perform certain activities on a file. This access is controlled at the organizational level. Credentials, on the other hand, are used to perform authorized activities alone on a file. These credentials can be for a specified time only. Such secure features reduce the chances of unauthorized access.

Along with security, SFTP To Go is also built on the reliable and highly available AWS infrastructure, which means, you can access it at any time and run it at any scale. It also offers APIs for easy integration with your tech stack.

Due to such extensive features, we recommend this tool for SFTP and FTPS transfers.

Who is it recommended for?

SFTP To Go’s intuitive web portal makes it ideal for organizations of all sizes. Its security features can come in handy for organizations that must meet the requirements of standards like HIPAA and GDPR.

Overall, SFTP To Go is a secure and easy way to store your files and share them with authorized users. Start a 7-day free trial.

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6. FileZilla Server

Operating system: Windows, macOS, and Linux

Best for: Simple and free FTPS deployment.

Relevant for: Individuals and administrators of small companies.

Price: Free

FileZilla, well known for its popular cross-platform FTP client tool, also provides a server for download that supports FTP and FTPS (FTP over TLS/SSL). FileZilla Server supports files up to 4GB, giving it the bandwidth to support the needs of most organizations. On the whole, the platform is easy to configure. To start you need to connect to a server with your login credentials and then you can view a list of files and directories.

When we tested Filezilla we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

This tool is easy to set up and use, and works well with most popular operating systems. At the same time, it comes with many useful features, like per-user speed policing, IP filtering, logging, and more, to provide comprehensive control and visibility into managed file transfers.

Feature-in-focus: Certificate Management

A unique feature of FileZilla Server is its certificate management capabilities. It uses Let’s Encrypt to automate TLS certificate provisioning, so administrators can generate and renew certificates directly through the interface.

Comparitech SupportScore

While FileZilla offers an effective FTP client, the company’s small size means product and customer support is significantly limited. To make up for this, FileZilla has a broad range of self-service documentation that you can use to help launch, maintain, and troubleshoot your implementation.

If you need more hands-on support, or lack adequate technical skills within your IT team, this may not be the product for you. However, we recommend speaking to an agent from FileZilla before making that decision.

Why do we recommend it?

FileZilla Server is part of a free suite of file transfer services along with a companion client utility. You aren’t limited to using these two tools together, you can use any other FTP client with the FileZilla Server and any other FTP server with the FileZilla Client. FileZilla is easy to use and is great for ad-hoc secure transfers.

The layout is very intuitive to navigate. Under the Quickconnect bar, you can view a message log that gives you status information on file transfers throughout your environment. Under that section, the left column shows local files and directories, and the right column displays files and directories on the server you’re connected to. Being able to compare the two side-by-side makes it easier to know what transfers you need to complete.

Drag-and-drop allows you to add files into FileZilla to transfer. You can view a list of files being transferred in the Queued files section at the bottom of the screen. If you want to cap the number of transfers taking place then you can configure transfer speed limits.

FileZilla Server is one of the top FTP and FTPS servers in the world. It offers a basic client to manage file transfers with excellent visibility and controls that make sure you have all the data you need where you need it. You can download FileZilla for free.

Who is it recommended for?

FileZilla Server runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux and it’s free, so there is a very wide market for the tool. The system offers secure transfers with FTPS and it is very easy to use, so staff who are frequently called upon to transfer or receive files will need to be issued with this on-device tool.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to FileZilla Server.

7. SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server

Operating system: Windows Server

Best for: Lightweight SFTP/FTPS server for Windows.

Relevant for: System administrators in small companies and labs.

Price: Free

SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server is a free SFTP server that can complete SFTP and SCP file transfers up to 4GB. With SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server you can conduct multiple transfers across lots of devices simultaneously. You can also select which version of SSH you want to use (whether SSH1 or SSH2). The platform is ideal for users looking to complete tasks like pushing out OS and firmware updates.

When we tested SFTP/SCP Server we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

This is a Windows-native utility that offers secure file transfers with protocol-level control and a simple setup. It also supports concurrent transfers and can handle up to 4 GB file sizes. There are no overheads or learning curves to using this tool.

Feature-in-focus: User and Permission Controls

A highlight of SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server is its support for fine-grained control over users, as administrators can create multiple password-protected accounts and define permissions for each account. They can also limit operations on a per-user basis.

Comparitech SupportScore

SolarWinds is a well-known brand that provides a wide range of IT solutions. Unsurpringly, this means the company is well-prepared to support its customers both directly with customer success teams, and indirectly with self-service documentation. Our analysis resulted in an 89/100 SupportScore for SolarWinds. This means most customers will get the level of support they need to implement, maintain and troubleshoot this product.

that may not be the case for everyone, however. If you shortlist and demo this product, be sure to ask for examples of how it supports customers.

Why do we recommend it?

SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server is a great choice, above all because it is free. Many free tools are not very good but this one comes from SolarWinds, which is a trusted and well-supported provider. This tool also enforces user credentials for access and provides strong encryption, so it is suitable for use on maintenance tasks that might include the transfer of mission-critical settings. It can also be used to protect the transfers of sensitive files up to 4 GB in size.

To control access to your files, you can create user accounts. Configuring user authentication details lets you determine who can access your files. You can add new users by entering a Username and Password in the Users section. The process is simple, so it’s easy for new users to start managing employee access to the server.

If you want additional security, then you can limit the operations that are permitted on the server. You can select a list of operations that the server will allow including Upload File, Download File, Delete File, Rename File, List Directory Contents, Create Directory, Delete Directory, and more. You can also choose what protocols you will allow.

SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server provides you with everything you need to start managing SFTP and SCP file transfers with a simple user interface.

Who is it recommended for?

This secure file transfer system can have many applications. However, you will find that this is the utility that you have been looking for to distribute configuration files to remote devices. The system can be used as a secure replacement for TFTP when updating firmware on IoT devices and the system is able to interface with iOS.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to SFTP/SCP.

Buyers of the SolarWinds Engineer’s Toolset won’t need to download this free SFTP/SCP Server because it is already bundled into the package. The Engineer’s Toolset includes more than 60 network administration utilities, such as a Configuration Manager and an IP Address Manager. This package is available for a 14-day free trial.

8. Syncplify Server

Operating system: Windows

Best for: High-security server that works on Windows and Linux

Relevant for: IT teams that need strong security protection and enterprises in regulated industries.

Price: Three plans are available. Note that all prices are for a perpetual license. Basic – $349; Professional – $849; Ultimate – $1,599

Syncplify Server is an SFTP and FTPS server for Windows that supports FTP, SFTP, FTPS, and is compliant with HIPAA regulations. Syncplify Server supports up to 5,000 concurrent clients. The platform has been designed for high availability so you can deploy 2 SFTP server nodes. If one node goes down then the other will still be available, which reduces the chance of disruption.

When we tested the Syncplify Server we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

This tool offers enterprise-grade file transfers backed by excellent security. Notably, Syncplify Server has no CVEs in the NIST database, which means it has never been hacked (at the time of writing this piece). It also offers high availability and event-based scripting.

Feature-in-focus: AI-powered Intrusion Prevention

It uses AI to detect attacks and thwart them before they can impact your operations. Also, when repeated attacks are detected from the same source, it penalizes and blocks that source. This way, it safeguards your network from brute-force and DDoS attacks.

Comparitech SupportScore

Our analysis of this company resulted in a SupportScore of 21/100. Syncplify clean look and feel make the company appear bigger than it is. However, it’s small size will likely result in limited 1-on-1 customer support. If your businesses needs product onboarding, implementation help, or ongoing and regular support, you may not be well-served here.

That is note a mark against the company’s product. As Syncplify grows, this may change. For now, this tool is best for companies with highly skilled IT teams that can take full advantage of Syncplify’s broad self-service documentation.

Why do we recommend it?

The HIPAA-compliant Syncplify Server is a useful tool for secure transfers of sensitive data. You can also use this system to receive a large number of files simultaneously, which means that it is an ideal system for large organizations that regularly expect files from members of the public of a business association. The concurrent file transfer limit of 5,000 goes far beyond the requirements of a single business for internal use.

One of the features that makes Syncplify Server stand apart from many other competitors is its extensibility. You can create custom scripts to add new functions. Scripts give you complete control over the file management process enabling better integration with your daily operations.

Syncplify Protector comes included with Syncplify Server. Protector is an intrusion detection system that uses AI to identify cyberattacks automatically. Syncplify Protector identifies attackers and then adds them to a blacklist so that they can’t connect to the server. The intrusion detection system offers an extra layer of security against cybercriminals.

Syncplify is a must for companies that want a secure SFTP or FTPS server. It’s one of the most protected offerings on the market. There is an Evaluation version of Syncplify Server, which has limitations on its functionality and use – you aren’t allowed to use it for business purposes. Paid versions start at $299 (£229). for an unlimited number of users and concurrent connections. Download the free Evaluation version.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is useful for public services or other institutions that deal with the public and expect a large number of sensitive documents to be transferred in or manage an office user community that constantly sends out files to associated businesses or members of the public. A scripting system means that your DevOps teams can add on user validation routines, automated responses, and file processing.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to Syncplify.

9. CrushFTP

Operating system: Windows, macOS, and Linux

Best for: Feature-rich SFTP/FTPS server with automation.

Relevant for: IT teams in regulated and complex environments that need secure file transfers.

Price: Three plans are offered: Small business – $70; Professional – $100; Professional, site license – $2,000

CrushFTP is an FTP server for Windows, macOS, and Linux that supports SFTP, FTPS, SCP, and HTTPS. With CrushFTP you can manage file transfers through a web-based user interface. Here the user can view previews of any images, PDFs, videos or documents on the server. Previews enable you to see the content of a particular file from a glance.

When we tested CrushFTP we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

This is a versatile and enterprise-grade file transfer platform that offers extensive automation to suit any workflow. In particular, its event-driven workflows are powerful and support flexibility and customization. It works well across multiple protocols as well.

Feature-in-focus: VFS Support

CrushFTP manages VFS connections to bring together multiple protocols, all of which can be accessed through a single interface. For users, this provides a seamless view of files without providing information about their origin.

Comparitech SupportScore

CrushFTP is one of the smallest FTP software providers on our list. As such, this company earned 15/100 SupportScore in our analysis of its customer and product support capabilities. While this is not an indication or poor product quality, it does mean that you may need to operate this software independently without the assistance or support of CrushFTP should you run into issues.

The company supplements this with a large amount of self-service documentation, which could be exactly what your company needs. If not, we recommend going with a larger provider. Nevertheless, if possible, contact someone at CrushFTP to learn more about how it provides support to existing customers.

Why do we recommend it?

CrushFTP is a cross between the mediated file transfer platforms such as Files.com and ExaVault, and managed file transfer systems, such as SolarWinds Serv-U. This hosted service lets you create interface forms that validate users and allow self-service of files. It also enables you to create access to files through a Web-based viewer that eliminates the need for the transfer of data.

To manage user access, you can create custom forms for users when they visit your site. For example, you can ask for additional information about file uploads. Users also have the option to retain control over files and enable others to have temporary access. Temporary access can be sent out via email and remains available for a specific time period. However, administrators can still step in to control the type of content that can be shared and for the amount of time if needed.

For security, CrushFTP includes automated banning. CrushFTP monitors connection patterns and bans IPs that hammer connection, command, or password settings. Blocking malicious IPs reduces your exposure to bad actors and stops them from interacting with your server.

CrushFTP is a fit for enterprises that are searching for a secure SFTP server or FTPS server. The tool offers a 30-day free trial you can use before upgrading to a paid version. Paid versions start at $70 (£55) for up to 50 concurrent connections. You can download the free trial version.

Who is it recommended for?

The access management controls in CrushFTP are excellent and can be automated by integration with your intrusion detection system. You can allow one-time access to files that get delivered to a Web browser and so do not alight permanently on the recipient’s device. Businesses that want to transfer automatically generated content, such as invoices, or DSAR results would benefit from this tool.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to CrushFTP.

10. Rebex Tiny SFTP Server

Operating systems: Windows OS

Best for: Quick setup on Windows environments

Relevant for: Software developers who want to test or pilot file transfer capabilities.

Price: Free

Rebex Tiny SFTP Server is an SFTP server for Windows designed for basic file sharing. You can complete file transfers and view an activity log. The software can be deployed from a ZIP file without any long-winded configurations.

When we tested Rebex Tiny SFTP Server we found the following key features.

Unique buying proposition

This is a ready-to-run and easy-to-use server that can work well across multiple test environments. It is also well-suited for sandbox testing, as you simply have to unzip and start the tool.

Rebex Tiny SFTP Server is highly portable, as you can get it up and running within seconds. At the same time, you can create or edit usernames, passwords, and the root directory through the config file.

Comparitech SupportScore

Rebex Tiny SFTP Server is a free tool, meaning you should not expect much, if any support for this tool. Combined with the small team behind the product and other factors, we gave Rebex a 15/100 SupportScore. The product may be what you need, but you may struggle to get timely support from the Rebex team if you encounter issues with its tool.

That said if you or your team know exactly how to make this tool work and don’t need implementation support or regular access to customer service, Rebex could work for you.

Why do we recommend it?

Rebex Tiny SFTP Server is a free tool. It is a lightweight and secure file transfer utility that is ideal for securing the movements of small files. As the name suggests, this is a secure replacement for the Tiny File Transfer Protocol (TFTP), which is usually used for transferring configuration files to network and IoT devices.

The tool is ideal for enterprises that need a simple SFTP solution rather than a complete SFTP server. While Rebex Tiny SFTP Server is an excellent tool it is important to note that it stores passwords in cleartext.

That means you can see passwords on the main server form, making Rebex Tiny SFTP Server inappropriate for users looking for a secure solution. It’s free for personal and commercial use. You can download the software for free.

Who is it recommended for?

Network administrators are probably using TFTP to move configuration images at the moment and should replace that facility with Rebex Tiny SFTP Server. The time has gone when network administrators could rely on the security of a private network. You should ensure strong file encryption on all of your file movements even within the confines of your LAN.

During our testing, we identified the following pros and cons related to Rebex Tiny SFTP Server.

Our methodology for choosing SFTP and FTPS servers

While building our list of the best SFTP and FTPS servers, we evaluated SFTP and FTPS servers based on how effectively they support secure file transfers without increasing the workload for administrators. Other factors that we considered are:

1. Secure Transfer

Security is one of the pillars of our evaluation strategy. In these reviews, we specifically looked into how servers protect files during transfer. We checked whether the tools support established encryption methods and secure communication channels while supporting modern file transfer standards. Also, tools with a robust authentication mechanism ranked higher.

2. Detailed Visibility and Control

We looked for tools that gave administrators visibility and control over transfer activity. Besides displaying activities and metrics on a centralized console, we also preferred tools that make it easy to manage sessions and restrict transfers for unauthorized users.

3. Automation Workflow

For many organizations, file transfers are a part of automated workflows that happen when specific events are triggered. To support these requirements, we have listed tools that come with features like automated transfers, scheduled jobs, scripting capabilities, and integration with existing operational workflows.

4. Logging and Tracking

A key aspect of file transfer is to log activities, so they can be tracked during audits and investigations. This is why tools with detailed transfer records and activity tracking scored higher on our list. Moreover, those that would generate reports were also preferred.

5. Deployment Flexibility

We picked solutions that supported multiple operating systems, deployment approaches, and integration with existing environments, so organizations can have maximum flexibility for deploying them across different environments.

Broader B2B software selection methodology

In addition to the above features, we ensured that all reviews go through a standard process that includes the following.

• Scalability
• Pricing transparency
• Usability
• Applicability to real-world scenarios
• Quality of vendor support
• User reviews

Check out our detailed B2B software methodology page to learn more.

Why Trust Us?

We are committed to providing clear and objective software recommendations backed by a transparent review process. We use defined evaluation criteria to assess each product consistently and focus on capabilities that matter to the intended use case rather than vendor positioning or promotional claims. All these make us the preferred platform for software reviews.

SFTP and FTPS Server Q&A

Which SFTP Server or FTPS Server software is Best?

Sending files by email isn’t the best way to get information where it needs to be. An SFTP server or FTPS server enables you to conduct file transfers efficiently while staying secure. Throughout this list, we’ve looked at some of the top tools on the market to help you find the best fit.

Our top pick, Files.com offers a great Cloud-based FTP Server solution that can scale with your needs and keep your organization HIPAA Compliant. Second to that, SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server is an SFTP server that ticks all the boxes for enterprises looking for a simple SFTP management solution. For those who want to use SFTP and FTPS our runner-up SolarWinds FTP Voyager is a better fit.

Other tools like FileZilla, Syncplify Server, and CrushFTP also stand out among the pack as excellent alternatives. We recommend that you make use of a free trial first before committing to deploying a new software solution.