6 Best Free Android FTP Tools

File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a popular and time-honored method of transferring files to and from remote network sites and devices. FTP is built on a client-server architecture and uses separate control and data connections between the client and server applications. The FTP client connects to the FTP server, and enables the user to send and retrieve files from that server.

FTP is one of many different file transfer protocols that are used in computing. Other examples include the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), BitTorrent, the SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), and Secure Copy (SCP).

FTP's popularity for general downloading files has declined in recent years. However, it remains a great way of moving large files and represents one of the quickest ways to transfer files to and from Android devices. Of course, FTP is not the only way of transferring files on the Android platform. We particular like sending files using the Bluetooth File Transfer app which uses the OBEX protocol.

To provide an insight into the quality of software that is available, we have compiled a list of 6 top FTP tools for Android. We have selected the finest dedicated FTP clients and servers, as well as our favorite FTP utility. Hopefully there will be something of interest here for anyone who wants to transfer files with the minimum of fuss and bother. FTP clients are included in some file managers, with File Expert and ES File Explorer being notable examples.

Now, let's explore the 6 FTP tools at hand. For each title we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, a screenshot of the software in action, together with links to relevant resources and reviews. We give our highest recommendation to SwiFTP and AndFTP.

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Last Updated Saturday, December 17 2011 @ 04:12 PM EST