Menu
IT professionals looking to use FTP on a Mac must fully understand what FTP is, the risks involved, and the tools available to help them increase efficiencies and keep sensitive information secure.
On your Mac, click the Finder icon in the Dock to open a Finder window, then click Network in the Locations section of the sidebar. If no items appear in the Locations section of the sidebar, hold the pointer over the word Locations, then click Show. In the Finder window, double-click the computer you want to connect to, then click Connect As. Uploading and Downloading Files. One of the basic functions of an FTP/SFTP client is the ability to. FileZilla Server. Intuitive interface. Perform file transfers simultaneously. Supports secure file.
To understand how to use FTP on a Mac, it’s important to fully grasp what FTP is and how it works. File transfer protocol (FTP) is a method for sending large files across the internet. Many companies rely on FTP sites and tools to operate efficiently on a day-to-day basis, whether to send a multi-slide, image-packed PowerPoint presentation or a high-quality company video. While there are some built-in options for file transfer on a Mac, I’ll also highlight why a robust software program is a better option for just about every business. My recommendation is to check out an option like SolarWinds® Serv-U®.
FTP relies on a client-server relationship in which there’s a separate command channel for controlling files that are uploaded, downloaded, copied, etc., and a data channel for the distribution of the content. These FTP sessions can function in both active and passive modes. With active mode, the client establishes the command channel and the server establishes the data channel. In passive mode, the server uses the command channel to provide the client with the information required to open a data channel, thus putting the client in control of both the command and data channel. Passive mode is often the go-to because it avoids bumping up against firewalls.
Is FTP Secure?
In an era when security threats abound, IT professionals must ensure their companies are upholding security best practices.
FTP used independently, without the support of third-party software, can pose a number of threats. Many FTP sites allow for anonymous transfers, in which users can access and send files without a username and password. Anonymous FTP is not secure and should only be used in situations where files are intended to be public.
But even FTP connections that require an ID and password are at risk. FTP passwords and IDs are transferred over the internet without encryption, potentially exposing them to password sniffing attacks hosted by cybercriminals. Mac FTP clients are also subject to man-in-the-middle attacks, in which attackers alter communications and documents transferred between two computers, often injecting them with malware the recipient then unknowingly downloads.
Another less likely but still possible FTP security risk is data that “strays” to a remote computer rather than its intended destination. This would allow a third party to view or even edit any transferred files, putting confidential information in jeopardy.
Improving FTP Security
To combat this, FTPS (FTP over SSL) was created. FTPS transfers data over an SSL-encrypted network. Any connection attempt that doesn’t use SSL encryption is not accepted by the server. FTPS also leverages digital certificates to authenticate information. Certificates signed by a known certificate authority (CA) or that include a copy of the recipient’s public key are considered secure.
Like FTPS, SFTP (secure file transfer protocol) enhances the security of traditional FTP methodology. Unlike FTPS, which relies on the same data and command channels as FTP, SFTP transfers both data and commands via a single, secure connection. SFTP also encrypts both the authentication information and the data being transferred with the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol, a form of public and private key encryption. This ensures nothing remains as clear text.
To take security one step further for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, IT professionals may want to consider implementing third-party tools designed for both FTP for Mac and Windows or enhanced file transfer security available in a managed file transfer (MFT) server tool. This software helps take business security to the next level through a wide variety of secure protocols and encryption practices. It can also boost efficiency and streamline many of the clunky side effects associated with basic server FTP functions.
How Can I Use FTP on a Mac?
Using FTP from Mac is straightforward, but there are multiple avenues to consider. There’s a built-in Mac FTP server to make it easy for users to add their files into the FTP client Mac and grant others access to specified documents. To do this, follow these steps:
- Choose “System Preferences” from the Apple icon
- Click “Sharing”
- Select the “File Sharing” box and click “Options”
- Click “Share Files and Folders Using FTP”
This simple process allows other computers to share and copy files from your machine. If you want to connect to an FTP server Mac to access another individual’s files without third-party software, you’ll need to:
- Navigate to the “Finder Menu”
- Select “Go”
- Click “Connect to Server”
- Enter the name and a password for the server you’re attempting to connect to.
This form of FTP Mac connection comes with a few limitations. It can only be used to download files, and if a username or password contains an “@” symbol, the server will fail to connect. In addition, dragging and dropping large files is typically prohibited and security is at a bare minimum.
Best FTP for Mac Software Options
A third-party software, like SolarWinds Serv-U FTP, is needed for IT teams looking to deliver quick, easy, and reliable file transfers from their organization. They’re especially critical for companies that must comply with industry regulations requiring encrypted data transfers, like PCI DSS and HIPPA. The best FTP for Mac software will provide:
- Enhanced Efficiency: Third-party tools can handle large file transfers (>3GB) and enable users to upload or download multiple files at once, avoiding the lag often associated with individual uploads/downloads. Many even boast intuitive web browsers and mobile device interfaces, so you can view, upload, and download documents in very little time from virtually anywhere. Drag-and-drop features and the power to easily add file transfer users and groups further drive efficiency home with these third-party offerings.
- Greater Security: A proper FTP for Mac leverages FTPS protocol for file transfers, encrypting files using SSL or TLS cryptographic protocol, to protect data from accidental exposure or tampering attackers. With these measures, you can rest assured as you send files over both IPv4 and IPv6 networks. This type of software will also ensure no data is stored in the DMZ to comply with PCI and other regulatory frameworks.
- FTP Monitoring and Management: Take things a step further with third-party tools that allow you to monitor file transfer statistics, storage, permissions, access, and more from a real-time, intuitive management console and FTP server log. You can define the limits for the number of sessions on the server, block the IP address of a timed-out session, and enable settings to require reverse DNS names. This bird’s-eye view of activity helps you quickly address any errors or security threats that arise.
- Automation: With tools that offer automation, you can move or delete files after transfer and delete or reset usernames and passwords after a predetermined number of days, all without lifting a finger.
Signing up with third-party software is a must. I recommend SolarWinds Serv-U. These FTP and MFT tools help simplify file transfers, implement critical security protocols, and ensure even your largest files get where they need to go.
Recommended Reading:
Best Remote Support Software in 2020: If you’re looking for remote support software specifically, rather than file transfer functionality, this is the list for you. These are the best 2020 software options for remote troubleshooting, which is a must for most IT professionals these days.
Before IT professionals start using an FTP server on a Mac, they should know the answers to the following questions to help keep sensitive business data secure and enhance their efficiency.
What Is FTP?
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a protocol designed to help transfer large files, including webpages and documentation, over a network. It can also be used to download, upload, and copy files from the internet to the host system. FTP uses TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol), a protocol used to execute commands, so users can easily share and transfer large files. Several businesses rely on FTP to share high-quality, business-related videos; PowerPoint slides; high-definition images; and more. Although Mac offers a built-in file transfer option, IT professionals still prefer using a robust tool to share and transfer files.
How Does FTP Work?
FTP is also known as a client–server protocol, as it depends on two types of communication channels. A control connection channel is used for sending and receiving commands and responses. In some cases, the user needs to log in to the FTP server to establish a connection; in others, the content is available without logging in. These servers are commonly known as anonymous FTP. Another communication channel is a data connection used for the distribution of content, such as transferring files and folders on a network. This type of FTP session can be established in active or passive mode. In active mode, the server initiates the data connection with the client once the client has established a connection on the command channel. In passive mode, the client initiates the data connection with the server. Businesses often prefer passive mode over active.
What Are the Risks of Using a Low-Quality FTP Server?
Organizations are often drawn by FTP’s ease of use and cost-effective plans. However, choosing an unreliable FTP server may lead to several risks and threats, which are outlined below. It’s always advisable to invest in a secure and reliable FTP client solution, and this solution should help you efficiently transfer large files and folders.
Unreliable File Transfers
Several free or built-in FTPs face challenges in transferring large files. They don’t include advanced FTP features such as setting alerts, automation, determination, and more. Therefore, organizations can’t rely solely on FTP for data sharing purposes. Managed file transfer (MFT) or modern FTP solutions are the best tools for transferring large files, as they trigger alerts, rectify problems occurring during file transmission, and automatically retry file transfer if there’s a failure.
Insecure Encryption
FTP has no encryption, which means the mission-critical data transferred using FTP is at risk and open to network sniffing. Organizations using open-source FTP solutions or built-in FTP tools requiring an ID and password are at a higher risk of data theft. Mac FTP servers are also subject to attacks capable of altering communication between systems and injecting them with malicious viruses or malware downloaded unknowingly by the user. Using a premium FTP solution helps protect organizations’ data through encryption and other security standards.
Noncompliance
Open-source and built-in FTP servers don’t provide the level of auditing required to meet compliance standards for data security regulations. They don’t provide administrators with visibility into the issues occurring during file transfers. To avoid such risks and troublesome situations, organizations should invest in an advanced and robust FTP solution capable of saving them time and money.
Why Should You Use Modern FTP Tools for Transferring Files on Mac?
Third-party or modern tools like SolarWinds® Serv-U® FTP Server and MFT Server help organizations transfer data quickly, securely, and efficiently. Third-party tools are suited for organizations looking to meet industry regulations and compliance needs for HIPAA and PCI DSS. Consider choosing an FTP server for Mac capable of providing the following:
Enhanced Efficiency
Using third-party tools, users can transfer multiple files simultaneously without the need for individual uploads and downloads. Third-party tools like Serv-U FTP Server can handle large file transfers easily. Many FTP servers are also equipped with intuitive web and mobile interfaces to give you a quick view of the status of transferred files or ones currently undergoing transmission. Drag-and-drop features and the ability to add users and groups are additional third-party offerings capable of driving efficiency and improving business communication.
![Servers Servers](https://line25.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/apps/bbedit-1.jpg)
Automation
Some third-party FTP servers offer automation, which means users can add and delete files and change file names, usernames, login IDs, and passwords even after they’ve been transferred. They also offer an optional “web file transfer client” feature or a plug-in designed to help users easily send multiple files.
Greater Security
A reliable FTP server for Mac offers file encryption using TLS or SSL cryptographic protocol and the FTPS protocol to transfer larger files. It should be designed to protect data from accidental exposure and malicious operators, and it should ensure data is transferred securely over IPv4 and IPv6 and not stored in DMZ to meet compliance needs.
FTP Monitoring and Management
Some FTP server tools offer unique capabilities, such as file transfer monitoring, storage, the ability to change access permissions, and statistics. Their premium plans also offer intuitive, real-time dashboards providing FTP server logs. Users can block timed-out IP addresses, enable different settings, set alerts for file transfer issues or data security threats, and set limits on the number of server sessions.
Catalina Ftp Server
Which FTP Tool Is the Best for Mac?
Macos Catalina Ftp Server
SolarWinds® Serv-U® FTP Server is a simple, easy-to-use, and efficient data sharing tool. It’s capable of transferring large/multiple files over the web or mobile devices using FTP and FTPS, and users can seamlessly manage, administer, and control file access permissions. Serv-U FTP Server can help you avoid bandwidth throttling and storage consumption risks by setting file transfer limits, and it provides a customer support portal where users can post their queries, submit help desk tickets, find information from the knowledge base, see available quick fixes, and upgrade the server when necessary. You can download a fully functional 14-day free trial here.
Enable Ftp On Mac
Need to transfer files more securely while meeting compliance requirements? Serv-U MFT Server is built to support FTP, FTPS, SFTP, and HTTPS to secure sensitive data, and it can help you meet compliance requirements for policies such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, FISMA, and SOX. Serv-U MFT also offers a 14-day free trial.