Best Secure FTP Service (Top SFTP Solutions)

Evaluate and review the top SFTP solutions for safe file transfers. Pick the best Secure FTP Service with HIPAA compliance for faster and more reliable data exchanges worldwide:

In today’s rapidly digitizing world, the biggest concern among businesses has been the protection of their sensitive data. While digitization has made day-to-day operations simpler, there are some security issues associated with this change.

Using a secure SFTP service is perhaps the safest way to transfer large volumes of data online. Simply put, these tools can help you transfer data as safely as possible over an encrypted SSH connection. A typical SFTP solution will help your organization execute large file transfers while ensuring the security of your data.

Secure File Transfer Protocol Software: Market Trends

That’s not all. A good SFTP solution will also help you meet compliance requirements as dictated by numerous relevant regulatory bodies like HIPAA and GDPR. That said, there are a lot of options at your disposal for secure file transfer software.

In this article, I want you to cut through the noise and invest your attention in only the best of the bunch. Based on popular reception and my opinion, I will recommend the best Secure FTP Service that is guaranteed to give you the best user experience possible.

What is SFTP Software

SFTP or Secure File Transfer Protocol is a network protocol that facilitates the secure access, transfer, and management of large files. Software with SFTP capabilities presents you with the most secure option to manage the transfer of large volumes of sensitive data over the Internet.

Many businesses have found secure file transfer protocol software to be immensely beneficial in ensuring compliance with a variety of regulations. This includes meeting and maintaining compliance with regulations dictated by the HIPAA, GDPR, etc.

SFTP mainly leverages Secure Shell (SSH) to facilitate file transfers and demands that the client be authenticated by the server. The data being transferred remains encrypted to prevent any sensitive information from being leaked.

What is a Cloud-Based SFTP Software?

With a Cloud-based secure file transfer protocol software, what you get is a cloud-based server that will help you transfer data using SFTP. Such software strikes the perfect balance between the benefits offered by the cloud and the impressive capabilities of SFTP.

You get web-based access to your data and information. Plus, transferring files across cloud-based platforms becomes far more flexible and secure.

Who does this article benefit?

This article is for all businesses that wish to accelerate their digital transformation journey. Organizations, both small and large, who have to execute large file transfers regularly will benefit immensely from this article.

The tools I am about to recommend stand out for their amazing usability and feature-rich functionality. If you seek secure managed file transfer solutions to secure your data at rest and in transit, consider this article tailor-made for you.

How did we pick the SFTP solutions on this list?

#1) User-friendliness: The first thing I always look for in software is a user-friendly interface. That is exactly what you get with all the tools I’ve mentioned on this list. You’ll have no problem scheduling and executing file transfers with the below recommended SFTP solutions.

#2) Security Features: A key reason businesses gravitate towards SFTP solutions is because of the security they guarantee. I assessed each tool’s security features. Tools that offered encrypted data or performed authenticity checks and helped you set up access controls were chosen.

#3) Transfer Speed: It was important to me to only select tools that promised and delivered lightning-speed data upload and transfer speeds. All the tools I’ve mentioned in this list succeed in this department. No matter the size or type of files, you can expect the secure SFTP services I’ve recommended here to transfer files at an exceptional speed.

#4) Scalability: I went with tools that were easy to scale. You’ll have no issue scaling the capacity of the below-mentioned tools as your business’s demands inevitably grow.

#5) Compliance: I made sure to include only names on this list that help you meet all the necessary compliance and security requirements associated with secure file transfer.

#6) Integrations: Finally, I made sure the software chosen facilitated strong integrations with applications and existing business systems.

List of the Best Secure FTP Service

Here is a popular list of secure managed file transfer platforms:

1. JSCAPE
2. Kiteworks
3. SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server 
4. Cerberus FTP Server 
5. ExVault
6. Progress MOVEit
7. GoAnywhere MFT
8. WinSCP WinSCP 
9. Titan SFTP Server
10. FileZilla 
11. Files.com

Comparing the Top SFTP Solutions

Name	Best for	Top Features	Free Trial	Rating
JSCAPE	Easy to deploy and support for multiple transfer protocols	Workflow automation, Access control, automation	7 days
Kiteworks	Centralized security and governance.	Advanced security, policy management, Compliance assurance	Free Demo Available
SolarWinds SFTP SCP Server	Advanced Encryption	App restriction, file transfers, user authentication	30 days
Cerberus FTP Server	Compliance assurance and advanced security features.	One-click regulatory compliance, Advanced security, cloud integrations	25 days
ExVault	Automated File Transfers	User management, automation, logging	10 days

Detailed Reviews:

#1) JSCAPE

Best for easy-to-deploy and support for multiple transfer protocols.

JSCAPE is the perfect SFTP solution to kick-start this list. This tool considerably simplifies the secure transfer of files across multiple users and platforms. While technically a Managed File Transfer (MFT) solution, you can count on JSCAPE to support a plethora of other secure protocols as well for hassle-free sharing of files.

JSCAPE comes armed with a myriad of advanced features like built-in cloud storage integrations, encryption/decryption, a built-in key management vault, real-time alerts, and detailed logging for auditing purposes.

Each of these features works seamlessly with each other to create an environment that makes the sending and receiving of files easy. Best of all, the interface is simple enough that the solution does not need to live entirely with your technical team; business users can use the tool as well.

Another area where JSCAPE excels is in the automation department. JSCAPE offers a library of no-code/low-code automation workflow templates to make setting up regular file transfer much easier – and without custom scripting. Plus, you can monitor the file transfer activity under a single pane of glass, thanks to JSCAPE’s centralized dashboard.

JSCAPE also stands out to help its users meet compliance requirements. The software will help meet compliance requirements like HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOX, and more.

How JSCAPE works:

Let me show you how you can schedule a file transfer using JSCAPE.

1. Launch the platform on your system.
2. Navigate to “Trading Partners”, click add, and add the necessary information.
3. Click on “Triggers” and Click “Add”.
4. Fill up the required information, select “Event Type”, and specify the trigger condition.
5. Click “Next” to establish the action parameters.
6. Upload the file you wish to transfer.
7. Click “OK” and then “Apply” when done.

Features:

• Key Management: JSCAPE stands apart from its contemporaries for its centralized dashboard. This centralized dashboard makes key management effortless on the platform. The software will help you centrally manage all servers, clients, hosts, and PGP keys.
• Encrypted data at-rest and in transit: You can assure the security of your data round-the-clock with JSCAPE.
• Access Control: JSCAPE lets you set up access controls. This ensures that only individuals with authorization can access your files. This ensures your data and sensitive information are only accessible to those who need access, reducing your risk.
• Automation: The software lets you use specific triggers to automate business workflows. JSCAPE serves as an ideal alternative to error-prone manual file transfer processes. JSCAPE’s automation makes the execution of file transfers far more efficient.

Why I Like It:

JSCAPE makes it very simple to secure and then manage file transfers across multiple operating systems and file transfer protocols. It is built to scale, features robust security features, and lets you meet all the compliance requirements.

Who is it recommended for?

JSCAPE floored me with how easy it was to deploy and scale. The software is also very flexible in its pricing to accommodate businesses of all sizes. This is the software I would recommend to small and large businesses, especially enterprises that seek software that will scale easily to meet the demands of their steadily growing business.

Pros:

• Flexible pricing
• Easy and quick deployment
• Impressive security pictures
• Easy scalability

Cons:

• Technically, a managed file transfer solution could be too powerful for small or startup businesses

Our Review: JSCAPE earns the top spot on my list for a myriad of excellent reasons. Its flexible licensing makes scaling simple. JSCAPE stands apart for its amazing security and automation capabilities. It integrates seamlessly with almost all major file transfer clients. I cannot recommend JSCAPE enough.

Price: Contact for a custom quote. A free demo and trial are also available upon request.

#2) Kiteworks

Best for centralized security and governance.

Kiteworks is another SFTP solution that does everything you’d expect the best SFTP platform to do. You can count on Kiteworks to help you easily manage user access, manage large volumes of data, and ensure its security. Kiteworks makes the transfer and storage of files simple by offering a centralized governance, management, and security system to its users.

The software is easy to scale, thanks to the high availability and cluster options. You’ll have absolutely no problem securely storing an archive for a longer period. You can utilize audit logs and reports to ensure transparency.

Businesses mostly gravitate towards Kiteworks for its self-service capabilities. As a designated user, you can easily create your own SFTP server folders. You can also upload and download files with a user-friendly web-sharing interface.

Like JSCAPE, Kiteworks also shines in the automation department. The software facilitates simple, code-free forms and visual editing. With Kiteworks, SFTP is considerably simplified and automated for the convenience of its users.

How Kiteworks Works:

1. Launch Kiteworks in your system.
2. On the main dashboard, hit the “Upload” button to upload files.
3. Once the file is uploaded, it is encrypted in storage.
4. Now click on “Invite New Member” and add the email address of the person with whom you would like to share the file.
5. Hit the “Invite” button and your file is now shared.

Features:

• CISO Dashboard: Kitework’s users are armed with a CISO dashboard. This dashboard grants them greater visibility over file activity. From the management of use access to handling file transfers, everything is seamless with this dashboard.
• Audit Logging: All file activity within the software is logged to enable SIEM and security information reporting, regulatory compliance, and eDiscovery. The software logs everything from client activities to the SFTP server. Even failed attempts at log-in are logged.
• Compliance: The software helps you comply with major regulations like HIPAA, GDPR, etc. You can count on the software for the encrypted transfer of files that contain personally identifiable information and protected health information.
• Virtual Appliance: The software operates on a hardened virtual appliance. This means that all of your data and metadata remain protected from all sorts of threats. Your data is guaranteed protection from insider threats and advanced threats from outside.

Why I Like It:

Its hardened virtual appliance ensures the robust security of your data from all threats. It features an easy-to-use dashboard with a comprehensive visual editor that makes creating and managing file transfer activity very simple.

Who is it recommended for:

Like JSCAPE, Kiteworks too is an ideal SFTP software for businesses across industries. I would recommend this to all users for its simplicity and impeccable reporting alone. Businesses who want to ensure the secure transfer of their files containing sensitive information like PII or PHI will find Kiteworks incredibly rewarding.

Pros:

• Very easy to use
• Flexible and secure deployment
• Grants you an end-to-end view of file activity
• Out-of-the-box reporting

Cons:

• Can be a tad bit slow at times.

Our Review: Kiteworks can simply automate SFTP activity, centralize governance, and track all your file activity, while also ensuring the security of your data 24/7. It is easy to use, designed to assure compliance, and quite affordable.

Price: Contact for a custom quote.

Website: https://www.kiteworks.com/risk-compliance-glossary/sftp/

#3) SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server

Best for advanced encryption.

SolarWinds distinguishes itself from others on this list by offering a free service. You can use this software to securely transfer network files without paying a dime. The software specifically caters to the needs of network administrators. You can count on the server to manage system updates of resources and configuration backups.

SolarWinds supports both SCP and SFTP methods to perform a variety of file transfer activities. SolarWinds can be leveraged to push OS images, firmware, backup config files, firmware, and transfer files.

The files you can transfer can only be up to 4 GB in size. The software also helps authorize a wide range of IPs for transferring files. You can also use SolarWinds to archive configuration files for switches and routers. For security, SolarWinds uses advanced encryption to ensure your data gets the protection it deserves.

SolarWinds finally won me over with its UI, which is a highlight of this software. It is very simple to use and you’ll hardly require any training. Even if you do find yourself in a bind, there is a support team at your beck and call 24/7.

How SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server Works:

1. Launch the SFTP/SCP server.
2. Navigate to “File” then click on “Configure”.
3. Navigate to the root directory and mention the protocols you want the server to support within the “Allowed Protocols” list.
4. Make your options known in the “Permitted File Transfer Operations” department.
5. Choose the IP address you prefer by navigating to the “Use Custom IP Address Binding” section.
6. You can also enable user authentication by navigating to the “User” tab.

Features:

• File Transfers: The software lets you securely transfer files over the internet across multiple devices concurrently. The software supports both SCP and SFTP to facilitate the transfer of a variety of files. You can count on the software to secure transfer files up to 4 GB in size.
• Advanced Encryption: Files uploaded to SolarWinds SFTP server are immediately encrypted. The software leverages advanced methods for robust protection.
• Application Restriction: Restrict user actions or close off commands by creating or removing a directory and removing or renaming files. You can limit the applications or operations that are permitted on the server. This adds another level of security.
• User Authentication: Configure user authentication details, easily set up new user accounts, and track user activity. New users can be added by simply entering a username and password in the Users section. This makes managing employee access very simple.

Why I Like It:

SolarWinds SFTP/SCP server impressed me with its user-friendly interface and robust support. Plus, it is quite powerful despite being free to use.

Who is it recommended for:

SolarWinds SFTP/SCP is a software I’d recommend for individuals and enterprises who don’t want to spend a dime on SFTP solutions. It is also ideal for users and businesses who want the help of an SFTP solution temporarily. This software is free and will let you transfer files of up to 4 GB in size securely. However, this isn’t software for large enterprises with more advanced requirements.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface
• 24/7 support
• Free to use
• Facilitates concurrent transfers

Cons:

• Scaling can be an issue

Our Review: SolarWinds is powerful, easy to use, and most importantly, lets you transfer files concurrently over the internet for free. With excellent security features, this is a great SFTP solution for companies who wish to transfer files that aren’t bigger than 4 GB or want to centralize WAN administration.

Price: Free to use

Website: https://www.solarwinds.com/free-tools/free-sftp-server

#4) Cerberus

Best for compliance assurance and advanced security features.

Like JSCAPE, Cerberus is yet another SFTP solution from the illustrious house of Redwood. Just like JSCAPE, Cerberus too excels with its easy-to-use interface, security capabilities, and a myriad of advanced file-sharing features. Besides SFTP, Cerberus is compatible with almost all major file transfer protocols.

Cerberus stands out from its competitors due to its strong emphasis on security and compliance. You can fully customize the security features. From automatic auditing and logging to performing file transfer integrity checks and more, Cerberus does everything necessary so your data remains safe in transit and at rest.

Besides the impressive security, Cerberus also ensures one-click regulatory compliance. You can count on Cerberus to help you meet compliance standards as dictated by organizations like HIPAA, PCI DSS, etc.

Cerberus is also very simple to use. You will configure file-sharing policies in seconds. You can highly customize the web portal itself and personalize it according to your brand’s theme.

Features:

• SSO Integrations: The software integrates quickly with existing security groups like OKTA, LDAP, and AD. These integrations allow you to establish flawless access permissions in seconds. User and group configuration is pretty straightforward with Cerebrus, thanks to this feature.
• User Management: The software facilitates easy administration of users, accounts, and groups. It arms you with fine-grained customization options. It is very simple to administer policies that determine who gets access to your files and who doesn’t. User accounts can be managed easily through the admin console or web administration.
• Auditing: With transparent reporting and detailed audit trails, you can count on Cerberus to maintain full data visibility. The audit trails will let you know who transferred files, where they were transferred, and when they were transferred. You can also count on the software to generate customizable reports.
• Automation: The software lets you configure time-based, user-based, and file-based automation triggers. The automation lets you run recurring tasks regularly. You can save a lot of time and avoid manual errors altogether.

Why I Like It:

Cerberus comes loaded with a set of features that push miles ahead of your typical SFTP solution. It is easy to use, easy to scale, and quite seamless in file transfer capabilities. The one-click compliance and security features alone make it worth each buck.

Pros:

• Customizable FTP web portal
• One-click regulatory compliance
• Easy to use
• Flexible licensing

Cons:

• The documentation could’ve been more comprehensive.

Our Review: There are a lot of things keeping Cerberus at the very top of this list. It is powerful and easy to use as a file transfer software. It supports almost all major file transfer protocols, facilitates integrations with tools like AWS, and arms you with exceptional auditing, automation, and security tools.

Price: Cerberus offers the following plans:

• Professional: $1499/year
• Enterprise: $3299/year
• Enterprise Plus: $7499/year.

Website: https://www.cerberusftp.com/

#5) ExaVault

Best for automated file transfers.

ExaVault is yet another solution that you can fall back on to perform both manual and automated file transfers. The software is compatible with both legacy and modern business systems. Besides SFTP, you can count on ExaVault to send and receive files with a plethora of transfer protocols like the FTPS.

The software is compatible with almost any FTP client and will let you transfer files securely across multiple devices and platforms. ExaVault comes jam-packed with features to make each facet associated with file transfer very simple. For instance, it is very simple to manage user permissions with this software.

Managing files is also quite convenient. You get complete visibility over your files. ExaVault centralizes the monitoring aspect. As such, you can manage users, storage, and transfers via a single dashboard.

Automation is also ExaVault’s strong suit. You can set up event-based triggers, which will automate a file transfer activity. As far as file sharing goes, you can do with directly from the app or share the link via message or email.

Features:

• User Management: ExaVault makes it easier to update, import, and create new users or set up permissions for file access. Provide each user with a unique username and password. You can do this for all systems and people on your network.
• Automation: The software automates file transfers by letting you set up event-based hooks, which will trigger the transfer of a file in direct response to an event. Automation makes the transfer of large volumes of data effortless.
• Logging: The software keeps and presents you detailed logs about each file transferred and stored in ExaVault. Almost every single activity transpiring within ExaVault is logged. As such, you’ll know the who, where, when, and what pertaining to your file transfers.
• Security: ExaVault lets you customize data retention timeframes, enforce passwords, and backup files in real time. It also encrypts data at rest and in flight. The software’s advanced security features make it ideal for meeting all sorts of compliance and regulatory requirements.

Why I Like It:

ExaVault supports multiple file transfer protocols besides SFTP. Plus, it is quite extensive when it comes to its feature set. The support is also quite swift and effective.

Pros:

• Real-time backup
• Easily integrates with legacy and modern systems
• Good support

Cons:

• Many customers have expressed disappointment in ExaVault’s surging price.

Our Review: If you are looking for an SFTP platform that’s filled to the brim with modern features, then ExaVault is for you. It is robust for the automation it facilitates or the security it guarantees. Plus, the software is quite easy to deploy.

Price: Contact for the quote. A free trial is also offered upon request.

Website: https://www.exavault.com/

#6) Progress MOVEit

Best for helping meet compliance requirements.

Progress MOVEit quickly sets itself apart from its competitors on this list for its flexible architecture. For those seeking file transfer capabilities, MOVEit has three distinct modules to offer. If you wish to get greater control over your file transfer activity, I suggest you go with the on-premise module. If you want better operational reliability, opt for the cloud alternative.

If you seek exceptional workflow automation, I would recommend going with the automation module that works well with both the on-premise and cloud modules. Whatever module you pick, you are guaranteed convenience for uploading, organizing, storing, and sharing files. Moreover, MOVEit is also excellent at helping you meet compliance requirements.

Features:

• Compliance Assurance: Meeting cybersecurity compliance standards is easy with MOVEit. The software helps you comply with all necessary regulatory requirements as dictated by the likes of HIPAA, GDPR, etc. The software also ensures compliance with SLAs and internal governance requirements.
• Workflow Automation: MOVEit can automate various facets associated with file transfer. This ensures that your file transfer activity is considerably simplified and streamlined. The automation also does away with the hassle of scripting.
• Security Features: The software will encrypt all files uploaded to the platform. You can also set up permissions to control who gets access to your files. The software excels at encryption, tamper-evident logging, and activity tracking.
• REST API: MOVEit is a good platform for developers. It can help you develop and deploy responsive file transfer applications.

Why I Like It:

MOVEit offers three very distinct modules. Each is capable of meeting your organization’s specific file transfer requirements. The software is highly flexible. Plus, the mobile app lets you manage your file transfers on the go.

Pros:

• Build to scale
• Excellent automation
• Mobile app

Cons:

• The documentation could be more comprehensive.

Our Review: MOVEit is a great software that supports a variety of file transfer protocols. Its flexibility and ability to ensure compliance with SLAs and many other regulatory bodies is perhaps its strongest quality. This is one of, if not, the best secure managed file transfer tools out there.

Price: Contact the MOVEit team for a custom quote. A 30-day free trial is offered upon request.

Website: https://www.progress.com/moveit

#7) GoAnywhere MFT

Best for built-in schedulers.

GoAnywhere won me over in two areas. Its automation is truly phenomenal. The software comes equipped with built-in schedulers. You can use this feature to schedule your file transfers at a future date or time. The file transfers will be triggered automatically on your set date and time. GoAnywhere is also excellent at handling bulk file transfers.

There is no limit to the volume of files you can transfer. You will be able to securely send large files on an ad-hoc basis. The software also allows you to perform integrity checks to ensure the files can move without any technical interruption. Like the best SFTP solutions out there, you’ll also have no problem meeting compliance requirements with GoAnywhere MFT.

Features:

• Remote Configuration: You can easily configure various aspects of the software or your file transfers from a remote location via your browser.
• File Sharing Scheduling: Set up triggers to determine when a file transfer should occur. Manage everything about this from a secure dashboard. The software comes with a built-in scheduler that will let you automatically execute workflows at a future date and time.
• Compliance Assurance: Stay compliant with a myriad of industry regulations and privacy laws as dictated by the likes of HIPAA, PCI, and DSS. You can count on the software to meet the laws of certain foreign countries as well. This includes Singapore’s PDPA and Australia’s CDR.
• Audit Logs: The software arms you with comprehensive audit logs of all file transfers. This includes data on file server auditing, workflows, etc. This detailed auditing allows the software to generate reports replete with stats and actionable insights.

Why I Like It:

I like just how hassle-free it is to send multiple large files through this platform. The built-in schedulers and the numerous integrations make this tool considerably simple to use.

Pros:

• Out-of-the-box integrations
• User-friendly interface
• Strong integrations

Cons:

• Some may find the price too expensive

Our Review: GoAnywhere MFT is another in a long line of impressive solutions from none other than Fortra, a renowned SFTP enterprise. GoAnywhere MFT doesn’t disappoint in automating file transfers, security, or ensuring compliance.

Price: Contact the Fortra team for a custom quote. A free trial is also available upon request.

Website: https://www.goanywhere.com/products/goanywhere-mft/automation

#8) WinSCP

Best for Open Source SFTP client.

With WinSCP, you get an open-source SFTP, FTP, WebDAV, and SCP client that works very well with Windows. Its salient responsibility is to ensure the secure transfer of files. It does this job exceptionally well both manually and automatically. What sets WinSCP apart is its interface. You are provided with a graphical user interface.

This interface displays the local folder on the left panel, whereas the remote folder is presented on the right panel. File transfers typically take place between these two folders. The interface shares its look with the Windows Explorer. So if you have used Explorer before, you should have an easy time on this platform.

Features:

• Graphical UI: You get a graphical UI that is very simple to use and navigate. You have the option to make the interface look like Windows Explorer or Norton Commander.
• Portable Operation: The software supports the portable operation. It does so by leveraging a configuration file that’s best suitable for operation from removable media.
• Text Editor: The software comes with an integrated text editor. Moreover, it also supports external text editors.
• Protocol Support: WinSCP showcases support for a variety of protocols besides SFTP. This includes Amazon S3, SCP, FTPS, FTP, and WebDAV.

Pros:

• Batch file scripting
• Explorer and Commander-like interfaces
• Can be translated into many languages

Cons:

• You may encounter glitches during use.

Our Review: WinSCP is a powerful file transfer manager. It is hands-down one of the most popular free SFTP clients for Windows today. As such, it earns a spot on my list.

Price: Free

Website: https://winscp.net/eng/docs/introduction

#9) Titan SFTP Server

Best for an impressive set of security features.

When you consider the number of users raving about this software, it makes sense that Titan SFTP Server would eventually grace my list. Titan SFTP Server offers the best of automation, secure transfers, and user authentication when it comes to file transfer managers. Today, it is used by over 30000 companies globally.

You can schedule file transfers as a direct response to an event. Managing files in Titan is also very simple. You can ban certain file types and even compress files before they are transferred. The web-based admin console makes the software very easy to use. This console will grant you complete visibility over your file transfer activities.

Features:

• Automation: The software supports over 100 event actions. You can schedule a file transfer activity based on time or event triggers. This way the file transfer will be triggered automatically when a specific event occurs or when the time is right
• Virtual Folders: Titan SFTP Server allows you to easily enable access to network directors. You can also add a UNC path with ease.
• File Management: You can rely on Titan to compress your files, ban certain file types, and resume transfers in the event of an interruption.
• Account Controls: You can set permissions at a granular level. Decide who on your team gets access to files and who doesn’t. Enabling or disabling accounts is also very simple.

Pros:

• Supports multiple transfer protocols
• Flexible licensing
• Customizable settings

Cons:

• Some users may find the tool expensive

Our Review: If you are looking for an SFTP or FTP server that’s laser-focused on security, then Titan SFTP Server might just be your cup of tea. It will help you establish granular user permissions and even ensure excellent DDoS protection, thus making it one of the best SFTP solutions, cloud and on-premise.

Price: The on-premise version for Windows and Linux will cost you $1500. The cloud version will cost you $43.80/month. A 20-day free trial is also available.

Website: https://southrivertech.com/titan-sftp-server/

#10) FileZilla

Best for Graphical User Interface.

FileZilla makes it to my list because of just how easy it is to use. Of all the SFTP platforms I’ve used, FileZilla is a clear stand out for its simplicity. Using the tool to transfer files between two systems is a breeze with this platform. Downloading, uploading, deleting, renaming, or simply copying files via FileZilla is as simple as a walk in the park.

FileZilla is also super-fast. You can execute the transfer of files less than 4 GB via this platform within minutes. Besides SFTP, FileZilla also supports FTP, FTP over SSL/TLS (FTPS), etc. This is also a cross-platform solution with easy compatibility across Windows, Linux, and MacOS systems.

Features:

• GUI: The graphical user interface makes executing file transfer and management activities very simple. The interface facilitates drag-and-drop support.
• Speed Limit: The software is fast in transfers. However, you can configure the speed and set up a speed limit.
• Remote File Management: You can use the software on the go to remotely edit and search for files.
• Synchronized Directory Browsing: You can easily set up backups and maintain exact data copies between remote directories and local folders.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Supports multiple file transfer protocols
• Cross-platform support

Cons:

• Not recommended for file transfers above 4 GB.

Our Review: FileZilla is yet another open-source software that lends support for SFTP and a variety of other file transfer protocols. It is fast, easy to use, and quite reliable in its capabilities. If you have file transfers that are less than 4GB, then give this tool a try.

Price: Free

Website: https://filezilla-project.org/index.php

#11) Files.com

Best for out-of-the-box integrations.

Files.com guarantees exceptional security features and compliance. As far as file transfers go, the software is quite reliable in its capabilities. You won’t have any issues managing file transfers via this software. The software considerably automates file transfer activity.

Besides SFTP, Files.com also supports a myriad of other standard file transfer protocols like AS2 and FTP for hassle-free transfer to external partners. Where Files truly shines is in the integrations it facilitates. The software will help you integrate seamlessly with many Microsoft, AWS, and Google systems among others.

Features:

• Automation: The software is great at automating various facets associated with file transfers. No scripting is required while using this platform.
• Real-Time Mount: From pushing files to the system to pulling files from it on a schedule, configuring Files.com to perform such actions is simple.
• Data Retention: Set up custom data retention protocols for each user, folder, and group.
• Encryption: All files uploaded will be automatically encrypted for safe storage and secure transfer over the internet.

Pros:

• Good speed
• Easy to use
• Out-of-the-box integrations

Cons:

• A faster response from the support team would’ve been nice.

Our Review: The integrations it supports to the ease with which it facilitates the transfer of huge files, there is a lot that makes Files.com great. It deserves a spot on this list for its automation capabilities alone.

Price: Contact the Files.com team for a custom quote.

Website: https://www.files.com/

Free SFTP vs. Enterprise SFTP Software

The market today is jam-packed with both free and enterprise SFTP solutions. In my personal experience, I always recommend spending a few bucks more for an enterprise SFTP solution. I have several good reasons for suggesting these solutions.

Although you aren’t paying for free SFTP software, you are also not getting much out of them. Most free SFTP solutions lack advanced features like batch processing or automation capabilities. Enterprise SFTP solutions, on the other hand, come equipped with these features for a hassle-free user experience.

With advanced encryption of data and audit trails, enterprise SFTP solutions are also better at ensuring the security of information than their free counterparts. Enterprise SFTP solutions are also highly scalable and can meet the demands of growing enterprises.

You can also expect better customer support with enterprise solutions, which isn’t the case with free alternatives. Some free secure file transfer protocol software provides no support whatsoever.

Now enterprise SFTP solutions can be expensive. However, it is a price worth paying to ensure you are meeting compliance requirements and facilitating the seamless and secure transfer of large files across environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

With businesses going digital, security issues have become a major concern. SFTP solutions serve as an effective option to assuage these concerns. They can guarantee the transfer of huge files over the Internet with the utmost security. This protocol can help companies transfer multiple large files in bulk at a much faster pace than usual.

By encrypting data and performing other security measures, SFTP platforms ensure your data is safe in transit from hackers and other sorts of threats. The platforms I’ve mentioned above are hailed by a majority of users across the globe as the very best in the realm of secure FTP service providers. You are guaranteed exceptional security and seamless file management, regardless of what you pick from my list.

As for my recommendation, I would suggest going with JSCAPE as it can support any file transfer protocol across multiple environments.

Research Process:

• We spent 28 hours researching and writing this article so you can have summarized and insightful information on which SFTP service will serve you best.
• Total platforms researched: 35
• Total Secure FTP Service shortlisted: 11