This powerhouse FTP client takes some getting used to, but you'll be glad you did. Don't be alarmed by the cramped, multipane Windows Explorer-like interface. You can customize the toolbars and windowpanes however you like. With the Local Browser window visible, SmartFTP supports drag-and-drop transfers like those on basic FTP clients. But its real power lies deeper within its option menus, where you'll find CHMOD remote file-attribute modification, background file transfers, multiple FTP connections, passive-mode transfers, site-to-site transfers (FXP), and connections via proxy or SSL. Using the Global Queue window, you even can schedule downloads or uploads to more than one server. SmartFTP may overwhelm beginners, but it's a natural for intermediates on up. It's also free for personal use and an incredible bargain. Watch the CNET video review of SmartFTP Client:
SmartFTP allows you to transfer files across the Internet. It features an Explorer-like, customizable interface and supports drag-and-drop functions. Multiple FTP connections can be opened at the same time, and you can copy files from one remote host to another (FXP). Remote-host directory information is cached for future viewing, and FTP URLs are supported. Other features include a Favorites list; the ability to resume broken downloads; a global history; background transfers; proxy support; a passive transfer mode; and the ability to perform recursive downloads, uploads, and deletes. Version 2.0.996.17 may include unspecified updates, enhancements, or bug fixes.
Note: This program is free for private, non-commercial use only.
Pros: I've transferred files nearly as twice as fast than with some other FTP clients. It is a great application for users that do a lot of FTP transfers.
Cons: A very heavy GUI which is a burden for novice users.
Pros: I've been using it for while and I think this is the best of its class. I'm a web developer and so I use Dreamweaver as my daily tool. Yesterday I was in a friend's house doing a few HTML programming and since he did not have SmartFTP installed and we were kind of in a hurry we decided to use the FTP built in Dreamweaver. Men, that messed everything around...for some reason my friend lost some files and renamed others. I guess that's not the main purpose of Dreamweaver so no blame on it,but it was so hard to figure out how to make that FTP work.Therefore I ended up convincing my friend to download SmartFTP and now he has fell in love with its familiar interface.
This is an awesome software, very friendly and with a lot of features that you might not need but make the program so powerful. If you are looking for a professional and yet easy to use FTP client, I suggest that you give it a shot !
Pros: I've been through quite a few FTP clients, and this one is by far my favorite. Up to date interface, great features, stable, and best of all, free. My only wish is they'd include a option to change the remote and local directories at the same time, ala ftp voyager.
Cons: The favorites menu is a bit cumbersome, but not a show stopper.
Pros: Attractive interface. Does what it's supposed to. Free.
Cons: Interface is very cluttered making the navigation and learning curve take a little longer. If you are willing to shell out some cash, wise ftp may be a better choice, otherwise stick with this one.
