Quick Overview
- 1#1: GoAnywhere MFT - Enterprise-grade managed file transfer server for secure, automated file exchanges with compliance and workflow automation.
- 2#2: SolarWinds Serv-U - Secure managed file transfer server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S with advanced security, clustering, and web client.
- 3#3: CrushFTP - Versatile cross-platform file server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, WebDAV, HTTP/S, and cloud integrations with user management.
- 4#4: JSCAPE MFT Server - Managed file transfer server for secure SFTP, FTPS, and AS2 transfers with automation, scheduling, and API support.
- 5#5: Cerberus FTP Server - Windows-based secure FTP server with FTPS, SFTP, HTTPS, event automation, and Active Directory integration.
- 6#6: Titan FTP Server - High-performance FTP/S and SFTP server for Windows with clustering, compression, and advanced auditing features.
- 7#7: Wing FTP Server - Multi-protocol FTP server (FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S) with web-based management, Lua scripting, and mobile access.
- 8#8: CompleteFTP - Secure SFTP, FTP/S, SCP, and HTTP/S server for Windows with MFT features, virtual file systems, and scripting.
- 9#9: FileZilla Server - Free open-source FTP and FTPS server for Windows with user management, IP filtering, and bandwidth control.
- 10#10: ProFTPD - Highly configurable open-source FTP/FTPS server daemon for Unix-like systems with modular architecture and strong security.
We ranked these tools based on key factors: robust features (such as multi-protocol support, automation, and compliance tools), proven quality (stability, user feedback, and vendor reliability), ease of use (intuitive interfaces and setup), and value (performance relative to cost), ensuring a guide for diverse organizational needs.
Comparison Table
With a growing range of file transfer server software options available, from managed file transfer (MFT) tools to specialized solutions, understanding key features and use cases is critical. This comparison table highlights popular choices like GoAnywhere MFT, SolarWinds Serv-U, and more, equipping readers to make informed decisions based on their specific requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GoAnywhere MFT Enterprise-grade managed file transfer server for secure, automated file exchanges with compliance and workflow automation. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | SolarWinds Serv-U Secure managed file transfer server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S with advanced security, clustering, and web client. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | CrushFTP Versatile cross-platform file server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, WebDAV, HTTP/S, and cloud integrations with user management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | JSCAPE MFT Server Managed file transfer server for secure SFTP, FTPS, and AS2 transfers with automation, scheduling, and API support. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | Cerberus FTP Server Windows-based secure FTP server with FTPS, SFTP, HTTPS, event automation, and Active Directory integration. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Titan FTP Server High-performance FTP/S and SFTP server for Windows with clustering, compression, and advanced auditing features. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Wing FTP Server Multi-protocol FTP server (FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S) with web-based management, Lua scripting, and mobile access. | other | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | CompleteFTP Secure SFTP, FTP/S, SCP, and HTTP/S server for Windows with MFT features, virtual file systems, and scripting. | other | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | FileZilla Server Free open-source FTP and FTPS server for Windows with user management, IP filtering, and bandwidth control. | other | 7.6/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 10 | ProFTPD Highly configurable open-source FTP/FTPS server daemon for Unix-like systems with modular architecture and strong security. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
Enterprise-grade managed file transfer server for secure, automated file exchanges with compliance and workflow automation.
Secure managed file transfer server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S with advanced security, clustering, and web client.
Versatile cross-platform file server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, WebDAV, HTTP/S, and cloud integrations with user management.
Managed file transfer server for secure SFTP, FTPS, and AS2 transfers with automation, scheduling, and API support.
Windows-based secure FTP server with FTPS, SFTP, HTTPS, event automation, and Active Directory integration.
High-performance FTP/S and SFTP server for Windows with clustering, compression, and advanced auditing features.
Multi-protocol FTP server (FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S) with web-based management, Lua scripting, and mobile access.
Secure SFTP, FTP/S, SCP, and HTTP/S server for Windows with MFT features, virtual file systems, and scripting.
Free open-source FTP and FTPS server for Windows with user management, IP filtering, and bandwidth control.
Highly configurable open-source FTP/FTPS server daemon for Unix-like systems with modular architecture and strong security.
GoAnywhere MFT
enterpriseEnterprise-grade managed file transfer server for secure, automated file exchanges with compliance and workflow automation.
Visual Workflow Designer for creating complex, no-code automation flows with built-in tasks for file manipulation, API calls, and branching logic
GoAnywhere MFT is a leading managed file transfer (MFT) solution designed for secure, automated, and reliable file exchanges across enterprises. It supports over 50 protocols including SFTP, FTPS, AS2, OFTP, and HTTPS, with advanced automation via a drag-and-drop workflow designer that handles complex file processing, encryption, and integrations. The platform excels in compliance with standards like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS, offering robust auditing, reporting, and visibility features for regulated industries.
Pros
- Exceptional security with end-to-end encryption, PGP support, and role-based access controls
- Powerful automation engine with visual workflow designer for complex file transformations and integrations
- Broad protocol support and scalability for high-volume enterprise transfers
Cons
- Enterprise pricing can be steep for small businesses without a trial or free tier
- Initial setup and configuration may require technical expertise for advanced customizations
- Resource usage can be high in very large-scale deployments without proper optimization
Best For
Large enterprises and regulated organizations needing secure, automated file transfers with strong compliance and integration capabilities.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise pricing starts at around $5,000/year for basic setups, with custom quotes scaling by users, volume, and features; contact sales for details.
SolarWinds Serv-U
enterpriseSecure managed file transfer server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S with advanced security, clustering, and web client.
Built-in clustering for high availability and failover without data loss
SolarWinds Serv-U is a secure managed file transfer (MFT) server software that supports multiple protocols including FTP/S, SFTP, SCP, and HTTP/S for reliable file transfers. It offers a web-based interface for administrators and users, advanced automation workflows, clustering for high availability, and robust security features like FIPS 140-2 validation and event logging. Designed for enterprise environments, it enables secure file sharing, auditing, and integration with Active Directory and LDAP.
Pros
- Comprehensive protocol support and automation capabilities
- Strong security with clustering and compliance features
- Scalable for enterprise use with multi-tenancy
Cons
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large organizations
- Windows-only deployment limits flexibility
- Initial setup can be complex for non-experts
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises requiring secure, scalable file transfer with advanced automation and high availability.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$1,600 for Standard (up to 100 users), ~$3,000 for Enterprise with clustering; annual maintenance ~20%; volume discounts available.
CrushFTP
enterpriseVersatile cross-platform file server supporting FTP/S, SFTP, WebDAV, HTTP/S, and cloud integrations with user management.
Universal protocol compatibility, including automotive (OEM/OFTP2) and EDI (AS2) standards, unmatched by most competitors
CrushFTP is a versatile file transfer server software that supports an extensive range of protocols including FTP/S, SFTP, SCP, HTTP/S, WebDAV, AS2, and OFTP2, making it suitable for diverse enterprise file sharing needs. It features a web-based administration console for managing users, virtual file systems, quotas, bandwidth throttling, and advanced automation via CrushTasks and plugins. Designed for scalability and security, it runs cross-platform on Windows, Linux, and macOS, with strong emphasis on compliance and customization.
Pros
- Exceptional multi-protocol support including niche ones like AS2 and OFTP2
- Highly customizable with plugins, scripting, and automation tools
- Robust security features like 2FA, IP restrictions, and detailed auditing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configuration and plugins
- Web interface feels dated and occasionally clunky
- Pricing scales quickly for high-user or high-connection environments
Best For
Enterprises and organizations needing secure, multi-protocol file transfers with advanced automation and compliance requirements.
Pricing
Free version limited to 2 users/1 connection; Premium licenses start at $299 for 10 users or $599 for 30 connections, with enterprise options and annual support.
JSCAPE MFT Server
enterpriseManaged file transfer server for secure SFTP, FTPS, and AS2 transfers with automation, scheduling, and API support.
Advanced automation via Triggers and Tasks for complex workflows without custom scripting
JSCAPE MFT Server is a comprehensive managed file transfer (MFT) solution designed for secure, automated, and compliant file exchanges across multiple protocols including SFTP, FTPS, FTP, HTTP/S, and OFTP2. It offers robust features like clustering for high availability, detailed auditing, and automation through triggers and tasks. The platform supports enterprise-grade compliance with standards such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, and GDPR, making it suitable for regulated industries.
Pros
- Extensive protocol support including niche ones like OFTP2
- Powerful automation engine with triggers and tasks
- Strong compliance, auditing, and high-availability clustering
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced configurations
- Limited built-in reporting compared to some competitors
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises and regulated industries needing secure, automated file transfers with multi-protocol support.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $995 for Standard edition; Enterprise edition ~$2,995+, with 20% annual maintenance.
Cerberus FTP Server
enterpriseWindows-based secure FTP server with FTPS, SFTP, HTTPS, event automation, and Active Directory integration.
Power Clusters for automatic load balancing and failover ensuring 99.999% uptime
Cerberus FTP Server is a secure, Windows-based file transfer solution supporting FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SCP, and HTTP/S protocols for reliable data exchange. It provides enterprise features like clustering for high availability, Active Directory integration, automation scripting, and a web-based admin console. Designed for businesses needing compliant, managed file transfers with strong audit trails and failover capabilities.
Pros
- Multi-protocol support including SFTP, FTPS, and HTTP/S
- High availability clustering and failover
- Intuitive web-based management interface
Cons
- Windows-only deployment limits cross-platform use
- Higher pricing for enterprise features
- Advanced configurations may require technical expertise
Best For
Small to medium businesses and enterprises seeking secure, scalable file transfer servers on Windows infrastructure.
Pricing
Starts at $499 perpetual license for Standard edition; Enterprise with clustering from $2,999 plus annual maintenance.
Titan FTP Server
enterpriseHigh-performance FTP/S and SFTP server for Windows with clustering, compression, and advanced auditing features.
Patented server clustering for automatic failover and load balancing
Titan FTP Server is a Windows-based enterprise file transfer solution that supports FTP, FTPS, SFTP, and HTTP/S protocols for secure and reliable file sharing. It provides advanced features like server clustering for high availability, automation scripting with Visual Titan, and a web-based administration interface. Designed for businesses handling large-scale file transfers, it emphasizes security, performance optimization, and integration with Active Directory.
Pros
- Multi-protocol support including SFTP and FTPS for versatile secure transfers
- Server clustering and failover for high availability
- Advanced automation and scripting capabilities
Cons
- Windows-only platform limiting cross-OS deployment
- Complex initial setup for advanced configurations
- Higher pricing for full enterprise features
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable, secure file transfer servers with clustering and automation.
Pricing
Free version with limits; Standard edition starts at $599/server, Enterprise at $1,499/server (perpetual licenses with maintenance).
Wing FTP Server
otherMulti-protocol FTP server (FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S) with web-based management, Lua scripting, and mobile access.
Seamless integration of cloud storage (e.g., S3, Google Drive) as virtual folders within the FTP server
Wing FTP Server is a multi-protocol file transfer solution supporting FTP, SFTP, FTPS, HTTP/S, WebDAV, and more, designed for secure file sharing across networks. It features a web-based administration console, built-in web client for browser access, and mobile apps for iOS/Android. The software integrates with cloud storages like Amazon S3 and Google Drive, offers Lua scripting for automation, and supports clustering for scalability.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-protocol support (FTP/S, SFTP, HTTP/S, WebDAV)
- Web-based admin and client interfaces for easy remote management
- Cloud storage integration and Lua scripting for advanced automation
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
- Advanced features like clustering require higher-tier licensing
- Steeper learning curve for scripting and event management
Best For
Mid-sized businesses requiring secure, multi-protocol file transfers with web access and cloud syncing capabilities.
Pricing
One-time licenses: Professional ($299, 30 IPs), Corporate ($499, unlimited IPs), Enterprise ($999, clustering support); 30-day free trial available.
CompleteFTP
otherSecure SFTP, FTP/S, SCP, and HTTP/S server for Windows with MFT features, virtual file systems, and scripting.
Integrated AS2 support for compliant managed file transfer in regulated industries
CompleteFTP by EnterpriseDT is a secure, multi-protocol file transfer server supporting FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SCP, HTTP/S, and even AS2 for managed file transfer. It offers advanced features like virtual file systems, user/group management with Active Directory integration, auditing, and clustering for high availability. Designed for enterprise use, it runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS, providing a robust alternative to basic FTP servers.
Pros
- Multi-protocol support including SFTP, FTPS, and AS2
- Intuitive web-based management interface
- Scalable clustering and virtual file system capabilities
Cons
- Java-based runtime may introduce minor performance overhead
- Free version limited to 2 concurrent users
- Steeper learning curve for advanced configurations
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring secure, multi-protocol file transfers with strong management and scalability features.
Pricing
Free for up to 2 concurrent users; Standard edition $299/server/year; Enterprise custom pricing with advanced features.
FileZilla Server
otherFree open-source FTP and FTPS server for Windows with user management, IP filtering, and bandwidth control.
Real-time administration interface for live monitoring and control of user sessions and bandwidth usage
FileZilla Server is a free, open-source FTP server software designed primarily for Windows, enabling users to host file transfer services over FTP and FTPS protocols. It provides robust user management, directory permissions, IP filtering, and bandwidth controls to facilitate secure and efficient file sharing on local networks or the internet. While lightweight and reliable for basic needs, it lacks support for modern protocols like SFTP and advanced enterprise features.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Simple installation and intuitive admin interface for quick setup
- Built-in FTPS support for encrypted transfers and real-time session monitoring
Cons
- Windows-only, no native support for Linux or macOS
- Lacks SFTP/SSH protocol support, limiting compatibility
- Dated interface and missing advanced features like clustering or web admin
Best For
Small businesses, hobbyists, or IT admins needing a straightforward, cost-free FTP server on Windows for basic file sharing.
Pricing
Entirely free (open-source) with no paid versions or subscriptions.
ProFTPD
otherHighly configurable open-source FTP/FTPS server daemon for Unix-like systems with modular architecture and strong security.
Modular architecture with extensive loadable modules for tailored functionality
ProFTPD is a highly configurable, open-source FTP server software primarily designed for Unix-like operating systems such as Linux. It provides robust file transfer capabilities with support for FTPS (FTP over TLS) for secure transfers, virtual hosting, and extensive authentication options including LDAP and SQL. Its modular architecture allows for customization through a wide array of extensions, making it suitable for complex server environments.
Pros
- Extremely flexible configuration for advanced setups
- Strong security features including TLS/SSL and chroot jails
- Free and open-source with active community support
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to text-based configuration
- Lacks a native graphical user interface
- Limited native support outside Unix/Linux environments
Best For
System administrators and advanced users needing a customizable FTP server on Linux/Unix systems.
Pricing
Completely free (open-source, no licensing costs).
Conclusion
Across the spectrum of file transfer solutions, the top tools offer unique strengths—from enterprise-grade security and automation to cross-platform flexibility and user management. Leading this group is GoAnywhere MFT, a standout for its comprehensive compliance features and integrated workflow capabilities. SolarWinds Serv-U impresses with advanced security and clustering, while CrushFTP stands out for its broad protocol support and cloud integrations, making them strong alternatives for specific needs.
Dive into reliable, secure transfers by trying GoAnywhere MFT—tailored to meet the demands of modern file management.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison