QuantumFTP

QuantumFTP is a free and simple-to-use FTP client for Windows. It includes standard and a couple of advanced options, making it suitable for those less experineced with such software, as well as those looking for a fast and straightforward FTP client.

The setup operation is a rapid and simple job that shouldn't raise any issues. Once it's over, you are greeted by a classical-looking window split into four panes, where you can navigate the local and remote folders, manage a pending queue, and check out log details, respectively.

To connect to a server, all you have to do is enter data regarding the server name, address, port number, user name and password for login (or anonymous), proxy server, along with a local and remote directory. The SSL and SFTP encryption mode are supported.

You can enable automatic IP substitution and choose the transfer connection (passive or aggressive), type (auto, binary, ASCII) and default action. It's possible to create as many server profiles as you want.

Once connected, you can transfer files from one machine to another by dragging and dropping them. They are automatically added to the previously mentioned pending queue which permits you to select multiple files and folders for transfers, activate the transfers, and leave the workstation unattended or carry on with other PC activity during this time. Plus, interrupted file transfers may be later resumed.

It's possible to hide the queue and log window, quickly connect to a server without going through the server manager by directly inputting the address, port number, user name, password and proxy, change the default anonymous email address and startup directory, switch to a different UI language, or pick the course of action when double-clicking remote and local files (upload, download, rename).

What's more, you can customize UI colors (e.g. text sent to server, error text), set the connection and transfer timeout, enable anti-idle, limit the local port range, bind the IP address to a local one, or create a list with multiple proxies to easily switch through. The server and configuration details can be exported to XML format and later imported.

Unsurprisingly, the app had minimal impact on computer performance in our tests. It didn't hang, crash or display errors. Considering its clear-cut and powerful features, QuantumFTP comes in handy for any users looking for a speedy and reliable FTP client.