FireFTP 2.0.25

Overview

FireFTP 1.99.7 is an open source, free, FTP/SFTP client that is specifically designed to integrate perfectly with the Mozilla Firefox browser and provide ideal access to FTP and SFTP servers. The add-on lets you browse the Internet while downloading or uploading files to or from multiple servers simultaneously, and allows for up to sixteen synchronous transfers at a time. FireFTP is unique because it is actually integrated into the Tools menu of the Firefox browser.

Installation

Installing FireFTP is as simple as installing any other Firefox add-on, and can be done with literally four clicks of the mouse. However, it is important to note that you'll need to ensure your Mozilla Firefox browser is updated before attempting to install the latest version of FireFTP. You may also need to click the "allow" button at the top of your browser window if Firefox attempts to block FireFTP from installing.

Interface

The FireFTP interface is said to be similar to that of WS_FTP (one of the oldest FTP clients), being split into two main panes. The left pane displays the files and folders on your hard drive, and the right pane displays the files and folders contained on the FTP server you are connected to. Most of the functionality is “drag and drop,” and users have the option of storing multiple server login credentials in the Account Manager to expedite the process of logging into servers on a repetitive basis. The Account Manager can also be used to store other information related to your favorite servers, including default security/encryption settings.

Pros

• Compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X

• Designed to integrate perfectly with Mozilla Firefox browser

• Available in more than 20 languages

• Easy to configure and use

• Offers on-the-fly file compression using MODE Z compression technology

• Ensures security by providing support for the latest encryption methods, including SSL, S FTP, and TLS

• Directory Comparison feature allows you to compare the content of directories and subdirectories quickly and easily

• Allows for remote editing of files

• Offers support for proxies, IPv6 connectivity, and FXP (file exchange protocol)

• Supports UTF-8 and almost every other character encoding set

• Automatically reconnects and resume transfers in the event of connectivity problems

• Being an open source software, developers are free to modify and improve its functionality

• Unlike some other FTP clients, FireFTP includes detailed tutorials and help documentation

Cons

• Utilizing the on-the-fly file compression feature may sometimes result in errors

• Cannot facilitate the transfer of files larger than 4 GB.

Alternatives

Fire FTP is certainly not alone in the world of free, open source FTP clients. Some of the more popular alternatives are FileZilla, WinSCP, and CyberDuck.

Conclusion

Although FireFTP is certainly not the most comprehensive FTP client available, its seamless integration with the Firefox browser makes it a favorite amongst FF enthusiasts. If you're looking for an easy way to upload/download files to and from web servers (or other computers that have FTP server software installed) without exiting the Firefox browser, FireFTP is certainly an ideal option.