The Best FTP Client for Mac (Plus How to Connect to FTP Servers)
If you work with websites, hosting, or remote file storage, you will eventually need a reliable FTP client. While macOS has a strong file system, it does not offer built-in tools for managing FTP servers in a practical way.
That is why choosing the right FTP client matters. A good tool makes file transfers faster, safer, and much easier to manage.
This guide covers the best options available today and explains how to connect to an FTP server step by step.
What an FTP Client Actually Does
An FTP client is an application that lets you connect your Mac to a remote server so you can upload, download, and manage files.
Instead of logging into a server through complicated command-line tools, an FTP client gives you a clean interface for handling folders, permissions, and transfers.
FTP vs SFTP vs FTPS (Quick Comparison)
FTP is the traditional protocol, but it is not encrypted.
SFTP is a secure option that works through SSH, making it much safer for modern use.
FTPS is another secure version that adds encryption through SSL/TLS.
In most professional workflows today, SFTP or FTPS is recommended over standard FTP.
Why You Need an FTP Client on Mac
Mac users often need FTP access for:
- Uploading website files
- Managing hosting servers
- Working with remote backups
- Moving data between systems
A proper FTP client makes these tasks simple, especially for people working with ftp for mac regularly.
What Users Look for in an FTP Client
Not all FTP clients are the same. The best ones offer more than basic uploading.
Support for Multiple Servers
Many users work with several servers at once. A good FTP client should allow saving multiple connections and switching easily.
Protocol Compatibility
Modern clients should support more than FTP.
SFTP and FTPS support is essential if you care about secure file transfers.
Password and Key Management
A strong FTP tool should store credentials safely and support SSH keys for secure authentication.
Finder Integration (If Available)
Some users prefer FTP servers to appear like drives inside Finder. This is especially useful for daily workflows where you want access without opening a separate client window.
Top FTP Clients for Mac
Here are some of the most popular and trusted FTP clients available today, each with a different strength:
CloudMounter — mounts FTP as drive
CloudMounter is popular because it can mount FTP and SFTP servers directly inside Finder, making them feel like local storage.
Cyberduck — simple browser client
Cyberduck is a lightweight and beginner-friendly FTP client that works well for manual file transfers.
FileZilla — classic free option
FileZilla is one of the most well-known free FTP clients. It supports major protocols but has a more traditional interface.
Transmit — premium choice
Transmit is a polished, paid FTP client built for speed and professional workflows, especially for Mac power users.
ForkLift — dual-pane manager
ForkLift combines file management with FTP support, using a dual-pane layout for easier transfers.
Why CloudMounter Is Popular for FTP on Mac
CloudMounter stands out because it changes how FTP access feels on macOS.
Seamless Finder Access
Instead of working inside a separate transfer window, CloudMounter lets you browse remote servers directly inside Finder, like an external drive.
Unlimited FTP / SFTP Connections
You can connect as many servers as needed without complicated session limits, making it useful for agencies or developers.
Protocol Support Beyond FTP
CloudMounter supports secure protocols such as SFTP and other remote storage options, not just standard FTP.
Keychain Password Management
It integrates with macOS Keychain, which helps keep login credentials stored securely.
Regular Updates & macOS Compatibility
CloudMounter is actively maintained and designed to work smoothly with modern macOS versions, which is important for long-term reliability.
How to Connect to an FTP Server on Mac (Step-by-Step)
Connecting is straightforward once you have the right client.
Using CloudMounter
Add New Connection
Open the app and choose the option to create a new connection.
Select FTP or SFTP depending on your server type.
Enter FTP/SFTP Details
You will need:
- Server address
- Username
- Password or SSH key
- Port number (usually 21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP)
Mount and Browse Like a Drive
Once connected, the server will appear in Finder.
You can then browse folders, open files, and transfer content just like working with local storage.
Using Other Clients (Cyberduck / FileZilla)
With traditional clients, the steps are similar:
- Open the client
- Enter connection details
- Connect to the server
- Upload or download using the client interface
These tools focus more on transfer sessions rather than Finder integration.
Security Considerations
Security is critical when working with FTP servers.
Is FTP Secure? (and When to Use SFTP/FTPS)
Standard FTP is not encrypted, meaning data can be intercepted.
SFTP or FTPS should always be used when handling sensitive files or working on public networks.
Securing Passwords on macOS
Use tools that integrate with Keychain or support SSH keys rather than saving passwords insecurely.
Protecting Your Files in Transit
Always choose encrypted protocols and avoid transmitting private data over plain FTP whenever possible.
FAQs
How do I access FTP in Finder?
You can access FTP servers in Finder by using a mounting tool like CloudMounter, which connects servers as Finder drives.
Can I map other storage with CloudMounter?
Yes, CloudMounter can mount more than FTP, including cloud services and other remote storage types.
Is there a free trial available?
Most premium FTP tools, including CloudMounter, offer some form of trial or limited free access depending on the version.
Conclusion
Choosing the best FTP client depends on how you work. If you want manual transfers, tools like Cyberduck or FileZilla are solid options.
But if you want a smoother Finder-based workflow where servers behave like drives, CloudMounter is one of the most convenient choices for ftp for mac users.
With the right tool and secure protocol setup, connecting to FTP servers on macOS becomes simple, fast, and reliable.
