FileZilla is one of the most popular FTP clients available today. It’s widely used by developers, webmasters, and IT professionals for transferring files between computers and servers. But despite its popularity, many users have raised concerns about its safety. Is FileZilla truly safe to use, or are there hidden risks? In this article, we’ll dive deep into FileZilla’s security features, installation pitfalls, and best practices to minimize vulnerabilities.
TL;DR:
FileZilla is generally safe to use—especially the application itself when downloaded from the official source. However, the FileZilla installer from the official site may include bundled adware, which could lead to unwanted software installations if you’re not careful. Using FileZilla securely involves verifying downloads, avoiding bundled versions, and enabling encrypted connections. If used properly, FileZilla remains a reliable tool for FTP and SFTP transfers.
What is FileZilla?
FileZilla is a free, open-source FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client that allows users to upload, download, and manage files on a remote server. It supports multiple protocols including:
- FTP – Basic file transfer protocol without encryption.
- FTPS – FTP over SSL/TLS for added encryption.
- SFTP – Secure File Transfer Protocol using SSH (recommended).
Its user-friendly interface, drag-and-drop features, and configurable settings make it the go-to solution for many involved in web development and system administration.
Is FileZilla Safe to Download?
This is where things become a little tricky. While the FileZilla application itself is safe and open-source, the installation file provided on the official website has occasionally included bundled adware. These are optional installations during the setup process, but users often install them unwittingly by clicking “Next” too fast.
To avoid bundled malware or adware:
- Always download FileZilla from the official site: filezilla-project.org.
- Look for the “download without installer” option or a precompiled binary without third-party add-ons.
- Choose the FileZilla Pro edition if you want an ad-free guaranteed version (note: it’s paid).
The good news is that many Linux distributions and trusted third-party software repositories offer FileZilla binaries compiled without any bundled software.
Why Does FileZilla Include Adware?
FileZilla is a free project, and like many such projects, it receives funding through advertisers. Bundling adware with installers helps generate revenue for the development team. However, this decision has led to criticism, as it potentially compromises user safety.
Common complaints about bundled software include:
- Installation of browser toolbars or homepage hijackers.
- Performance degradation due to background services.
- Privacy concerns from data tracking applications.
Solution: Be vigilant during installation, and read every screen carefully. You can uncheck any offers before proceeding to ensure a clean install.
Is FileZilla Safe to Use After Installation?
Yes—provided you’ve installed a clean version. Once installed, FileZilla is safe and regularly updated with patches and improvements. But how secure is FileZilla when it comes to your actual file transfers?
Transfer Protocol Security
FileZilla supports multiple file transfer protocols, some more secure than others. Here’s a breakdown:
- FTP: Not encrypted. Vulnerable to packet sniffing and man-in-the-middle attacks. Avoid using this protocol for sensitive files.
- FTPS: Encrypted via SSL/TLS. Offers secure authentication and data transfer. Make sure your server supports it.
- SFTP: Highly secure. Operates over SSH (Secure Shell). Strongly recommended for modern, secure deployments.
Tip: Always choose SFTP if it’s available. It provides a high level of encryption and is widely supported.
Active vs. Passive Mode
FileZilla offers two modes of file transfer: active and passive. Each has different implications for firewalls and NAT environments.
- Active Mode: The client opens a connection, and the server initiates the data channel back. This can cause issues with some firewalls.
- Passive Mode: The client initiates both control and data connections. It’s generally more firewall-friendly and preferred for secure environments.
Security tip: Use Passive mode when behind a firewall or NAT-based network for a more stable and secure experience.
Does FileZilla Store Passwords Securely?
This is a major point of concern. FileZilla stores site passwords in plaintext in an XML file, such as sitemanager.xml. This means that if someone gains access to your system, they could easily retrieve your saved passwords.
Workarounds:
- Enable “Do not save passwords” in preferences.
- Use a secure password manager and enter credentials manually.
- Manually encrypt the FileZilla configuration file using disk encryption or tools like VeraCrypt.
Currently, FileZilla does not offer built-in encryption for saved credentials. Be aware of this limitation and take steps to minimize risk.
Alternatives to FileZilla
If you’re uncomfortable with some of FileZilla’s practices, here are a few secure alternatives worth considering:
- WinSCP: A popular SFTP and FTP client for Windows with password encryption and strong security focus.
- Cyberduck: Supports FTP, SFTP, and cloud storage, available for macOS and Windows.
- Transmit: A premium macOS alternative known for polishing security and design.
These tools may offer enhanced user experiences or stronger security out-of-the-box, particularly with encrypted password storage support.
Best Practices for Secure FileZilla Usage
To ensure a safe experience while using FileZilla, follow these best practices:
- Download from trusted sources. Prefer official or adware-free repositories.
- Always opt for SFTP over FTP. This offers encryption and secure authentication.
- Manually manage passwords. Avoid saving them in FileZilla’s settings.
- Keep your software up to date. Updates patch known vulnerabilities and improve security.
- Use strong authentication methods. If your server supports key-based permissions or 2FA, take advantage.
Conclusion: Is FileZilla Safe?
Yes—with caution. FileZilla, as an FTP client, is a robust and reliable tool when installed correctly and used with secure protocols like SFTP. Its open-source nature ensures community oversight, regular updates, and transparency. However, the optional adware in some installers, and its plaintext password storage method, raise valid concerns.
The key is to be vigilant—avoid the bundled installer, use only encrypted transfers, and never rely on FileZilla to store sensitive credentials. When used responsibly, FileZilla continues to be an invaluable tool for safe and efficient server management.