WinSCP (Windows Secure CoPy) is a free and Open Source, FTP client and SSH client running under Microsoft Windows. Its main function is to transfer files between the local computer and other computers in the LAN or WAN. WinSCP also has other features: File manager, File synchronization, File editing. The SSH and SCP protocols are used for file transfer.
Characteristics:
1. Graphical Interface
2. Translated into many languages
3. Integration with Windows (drawing and placement, URL, shortcuts as desktop icons)
4. Any ordinary file operations
5. Compatible with SFTP and SCP protocols through SSH-1 and SSH-2 as well as the old FTP protocol
6. Encoding and command line interface for filegroups
7. Synchronization of directories in semi-automatic or fully automated modes
8. Integrated text editor
9. Compatible with SSH passwords, keyboard commands, public key, and Kerberos protocol authentication (GSS)
10. Integration with Pageant (PuTTY Authentication Agent) for Full Compatibility with SSH Public Key Authentication
11. Explorer and Commander interfaces.
12. Options, stores session information.
13. Optable supports portable operation using a configuration file instead of registry entries, convenient for operation on removable media
File Operations:
WinSCP can execute all basic file operations, such as downloading and loading. It also allows you to rename files and folders, create new directories, change the properties of files and folders, and create symbolic links and shortcuts. One of the two interfaces allows the user even managing files from the local computer.
Remote Computer Connection:
With WinSCP, you can connect to an SSH (Secure Shell) server via SCP (Secure Copy Protocol) or connect to a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) server. SCP is a standard part of the SSH-1 package. Both protocols can be run even with the latest SSH versions. WinSCP supports both SSH-1 and SSH-2. For FTP, simple FTP and FTP through TLS / SSL are supported. Compressed transfers (Zlib) are not accepted.
Program Interface:
There are two program electable interfaces, with lots of configurations and options in WinSCP. You will be able to select your preferred interface for the first time during installation. Later, you will be able to change your chosen preference.
If you are using WinSCP for the first time, it is recommended that you choose the Explorer interface because it should be familiar to any Windows user. But if you’re familiar with the Norton Commander concept used by some file management nowadays (Total Commander, FAR, Altap Salamander), choose the Commander interface. It mainly focuses on easy control using the keyboard. You can work in it even by not leaving the mouse. The one who is used to this interface can perform operations much faster.
WinSCP is available with a sponsored installer and so comes with an OpenCandy creative module. The ad module triggers ads based on the user’s location, so the content displayed is close to the user’s interests (local advertisements). Creative revenue is shared between OpenCandy and the author, contributing to the future development of WinSCP.
The ad module is optional and can be disabled at installation. There is also an installer version that does not contain the OpenCandy creative module.