Setting up FTP server: the 3 best Windows programs

With the appropriate programs, you can set up an FTP server under Windows. The three best FTP Windows programs are presented in this article.

Set up FTP server with "FileZilla Server"

With the open source project "FileZilla Server" you transform your PC into an FTP server. FileZilla also offers a client with which you can access the server. When installing, pay attention to the additional programs / toolbar that the manufacturer would like to install.

• After installation, assign an IP address to the server and an "Administration password". If your router or PC is blocked by a firewall, enable these in the firewall settings.
• You can manage the rights in the user interface. In the menu bar under "Edit", the users or groups are created for whom you can also release folders afterwards. For security, you should assign a password to each user.
• The program supports secure SSL / TLS encryption. Go to "Edit" in the menu bar and open "Settings". You can activate encryption under SSL / TLS.

Set up FTP server with "Quick and Easy FTP Server Lite"

The "Quick and Easy FTP Server Lite" program, which is also available free of charge, has a clear interface and is easy to use. No installation is required for the server. You can start it directly from a USB stick.

• At the beginning, the wizard guides you through the first steps. Accordingly, you create the first user and assign him a home directory. You can then determine which rights the user has. For example, you prohibit a user or a group from changing files.
• After you have created a user, it makes sense to configure the FTP server. To do this, go to "Launch FTP Setup Wizard" in the overview. There you can determine the address of the server, among other things.
• In contrast to "FileZilla Server", the "Quick and Easy FTP Server Lite" program does not support SSL / TLS encryption. Therefore, pay attention to the usage rights of the users.

Set up FTP server with "CesarFTP"

"CesarFTP" is a very slim program with which you can quickly set up an FTP server. The interface enables a separate file system for the folder structure.

• In the menu bar under "Settings"> "Edit Users & Groups" you create new users or groups. So that you do not lose the overview, you can add more information. Under "File Access Rights" you determine the usage rights and a standard directory for each user. The program differentiates between folders and files.
• Under "Settings"> "Edit Server Options" you can start the server automatically with Windows and define how many users can access your server. Rules that you define ensure increased security. So you can have a user blocked automatically after several connection attempts.

Another practical tip tells you how to connect to an FTP server with FileZilla.