FileZilla
FileZilla is a desktop file transfer client for macOS that helps you connect to FTP, FTPS, and SFTP servers to upload, download, and manage remote files.
What is FileZilla?
FileZilla is a file transfer client for macOS that helps you move files between your Mac and remote servers. It is commonly used by web developers, system administrators, and site owners who need to upload website files, download backups, or manage hosted content over FTP, FTPS, and SFTP connections. The app provides a graphical interface for browsing local and remote folders side by side, so routine transfer work is easier than using command-line tools. It also supports queued transfers, resume for interrupted downloads or uploads, and bookmark-style saved sites for servers you access often. FileZilla is published by the FileZilla Project and is also available on Windows and Linux, which can be useful in mixed-platform workflows.
Key features
- Connect to servers using FTP, FTPS, and SFTP
- Browse local and remote folders side by side
- Upload and download files with drag-and-drop style workflows
- Queue multiple transfers and manage them in one session
- Resume interrupted transfers instead of starting over
- Save frequently used server connections for quick access
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
FileZilla is a well-known file transfer client, and network access is expected because its purpose is to connect to remote servers. The main practical risk is handling server credentials and transferring files to the wrong location, especially when working with production websites or shared hosting. Use encrypted connections such as FTPS or SFTP when your server supports them, and confirm the app is the standard FileZilla client published by the FileZilla Project. If a copy on your Mac shows unusual prompts, unexpected ads outside the installer experience, or a different developer identity, remove that copy and reinstall from the official site.
Recommendation: Keep FileZilla if you actively manage websites, hosting accounts, or other remote servers from your Mac. If you no longer use FTP, FTPS, or SFTP connections, you can remove it without affecting macOS itself. Before uninstalling, make sure you do not need any saved server bookmarks or transfer settings you want to keep.
Common paths
/Applications/FileZilla.app
Cache paths
~/Library/Caches/org.filezilla-project.filezilla
Support paths
~/Library/Application Support/FileZilla
Preference paths
~/Library/Preferences/org.filezilla-project.filezilla.plist
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