Top 8 SFTP Server Software in 2024 Based on 1,000+ Reviews

As the demand for secure file transfers grows, SFTP server software has become essential for businesses aiming to protect their data and credentials during transmission. Yet, distinguishing truly effective solutions in a market flooded with options poses a significant challenge.

To address this, we’ve conducted thorough research and curated a list of 8 standout SFTP server software providers. Our article highlights these top solutions, emphasizing their capabilities in ensuring robust security and improving operational efficiency for a range of business applications, from enterprise-level secure file transfers to automated data exchanges.

Comparison of Top SFTP Server Software Solutions

Table 1: Secure File Transfer Protocol tools.

* Ratings are based on Capterra, Gartner, and G2. The vendors are listed according to their review counts.

How we choose top SFTP Server Software Vendors?

When selecting the top 8 SFTP server software for review, we took into account these specific, publicly confirmable criteria:

• Employee Count: A link exists between a company’s income and the number of its employees. Thus, our focus was on organizations with a workforce exceeding 50 employees.
• User Reviews: We preferred solutions that received feedback from a minimum of 30 users on B2B review platforms such as G2 and Capterra, indicating some market presence validated by real user experiences.
• Core features: Solutions need to support secure FTP/S, SFTP, and MFT with HTTP/S support to be included.

Top 8 SFTP server solutions analyzed

JSCAPE

JSCAPE provides a managed file transfer platform with an SFTP server capability, enabling secure and encrypted file exchanges across networks. It supports multiple protocols, with a focus on SFTP for secure data transmission through robust encryption and authentication.

Pros:

• Users appreciate JSCAPE for its ability to streamline secure file transfers and synchronization, easing large-scale file management with its SFTP feature that ensures reliable security for data exchanges, complemented by prompt support for queries and challenges.¹
• The tool’s platform independence and user-friendly interface streamline workflows and enhance data security with various encryption options, boosting efficiency and productivity. ²
• The software ensures secure, swift file transfers across servers worldwide with automation, logging, and remote administration features, significantly reducing manual efforts.³

Cons:

• Users express concerns over delayed support responses from the JSCAPE MFT Server team following purchase.⁴
• Users note the limited availability of language packs in the software server, causing translation challenges for non-fluent clients.⁵
• The tool’s cryptic connection and server errors obstruct the establishment of an effective deployment pipeline for JSCAPE users.⁶

MOVEit Managed File Transfer

MOVEit Managed File Transfer automates and secures file transfers, providing compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. It features encrypted transfers, detailed logging for audits, and automated workflows. Supporting FTPS, SFTP, and HTTPS, the tool offers versatile deployment options for various business needs.

Pros:

• This sftp server software’s strong security, PCI-compliant large file transfer interface, and scalable automation are enhanced by effective support.⁷
• The SFTP tool’s flexibility in performing various tasks streamlines operational workflows, enhancing productivity.⁸

Cons:

• Clients find navigation and file retrieval difficult, highlighting the need for a major interface update after years of unchanged design.⁹
• Encountering multiple issues necessitated the involvement of professional services for resolution, indicating areas for improvement in user support and system intuitiveness.¹⁰

GoAnywhere MFT

GoAnywhere MFT provides a secure and efficient SFTP solution for file transfers, emphasizing encryption and compliance. It aims to provide data integrity and confidentiality, with features for key management, authentication, and logging, catering to organizations prioritizing secure, regulated data exchanges.

Pros:

• Users appreciate GoAnywhere MFT for its user-friendly setup, quick integration with third-party platforms, enhancing operational efficiency.¹¹
• The tool has significantly streamlined scheduled jobs and transfers, backed by outstanding support and a straightforward upgrade process.¹²
• GoAnywhere MFT’s exceptional support and training staff are highlighted for their readiness to assist and commitment to going the extra mile.¹³

Cons:

• Users mention GoAnywhere MFT doesn’t disable irrelevant options for tasks, necessitating careful consultation of notes and help guides.¹⁴
• Users find error handling challenging, with difficulties in enforcing internal standards and naming conventions among developers.¹⁵
• Managing data transfers was cumbersome due to a variety of methods before this sftp server software, although this issue may have been addressed in newer versions.¹⁶

Files.com

Files.com operates as a open source solution featuring integrated FTP and SFTP servers. Hosted remotely, this service surpasses traditional SFTP servers in functionality, offering an array of additional features. At its core, Files.com includes cloud storage serving as an intermediary for all file-related actions.

Pros:

• Users appreciate Files.com for its versatile file transfer methods, including SFTP, intuitive portal, seamless integrations, and swift, straightforward implementation.¹⁷
• Users value the platform’s reliability, diverse login options, rapid protocol updates, and extensive documentation.¹⁸

Cons:

• The tool’s pricing model, focused only on user count without regard for storage needs, disadvantages those with minimal storage requirements, suggesting a need for a more adaptable pricing strategy.¹⁹
• Management tools appear cluttered, navigating the file management UI is challenging, and resolving advanced support queries, like security questionnaires, can be slow.²⁰

Cerberus FTP Server

Cerberus FTP Server is a Windows-based solution. Designed for on-premise or cloud setups, it features AD/LDAP integration, SSO, web client transfers, and compliance with encryption standards like FIPS 140-2. Essential features encompass automated scanning, event-driven automation, and support for HIPAA compliance.

Pros:

• Users commend the Cerberus FTP Server for its on-premise file sharing capabilities, highlighting its minimalistic interface that facilitates HTTPS file sharing. ²¹
• Users appreciate Cerberus for its extensive security options and flexible setup capabilities, enabling tailored FTP solutions for any company’s environment.²²
• Users value the program’s stability, noting zero crashes or errors after thousands of uploads, easing company adoption and saving time.²³

Figure 1: A user review of Cerberus

Cons:

• Users report SMTP integration issues and restrictions on file uploads under admin logins, necessitating workarounds for both.²⁴
• The tool needs enhancements, including full high availability support, expanded MFA integrations, simplified Active Directory connections, and dual-role user/admin accounts.²⁵
• The software’s logging settings are limited in the UI, requiring users to consult knowledge boards for daily log setup, with overwrite as an unexpected default.²⁶

Figure 2: A user review of Cerberus

Thru Inc.

Thru offers a cloud MFT solution with SFTP support for secure file exchange, featuring usage-based pricing and simplified integration through no-code web management. Its hybrid architecture supports secure internal transfers, while extensive platform integrations facilitate digital transformation.

Pros:

• The tool enhances customization, global access, collaboration through shared folders, and boasts a user-friendly, web-based interface for file management.²⁷
• Users value Thru for its collaborative platform that facilitates secure document exchange and teamwork, especially through its integration with Outlook for secure file sharing.²⁸

Cons:

• Users note the tool’s limited third-party integrations and a user interface that could be improved for a better experience and broader application use.²⁹
• 
  The tool’s GUI could benefit from enhancements for intuitiveness, including a wizard for simple transfers and improved configuration options for complex tasks.³⁰

Globalscape MFT

Globalscape MFT delivers secure and compliant data transfers, supporting key protocols. With encryption, compliance functionalities, and audit capabilities, it provides an intuitive and scalable solution that streamlines file management and meets regulatory requirements for various organizations.

Pros:

• Users appreciate the solution’s straightforward deployment and design, enabling a flexible, secure service model that meets regulatory and data protection requirements.³¹
• 
  Users appreciate the software’s integrated toolbox and Visual Studio-like coding environment, along with simple import/export functions for events and streamlined credential management.³²

Cons:

• The tool lacks an easily accessible report to identify users utilizing weak ciphers, making proactive user notification and cipher management cumbersome and time-consuming.³³
• Users face challenges with Globalscape EFT’s high availability setup and port configuration, requiring extensive support and precise knowledge to prevent site clashes and connection issues.³⁴

SolarWinds SFTP/SCP Server

SolarWinds Server offers a user-friendly platform for file transfers, supporting SFTP and SCP protocols. Designed for network administrators, it enables encrypted file exchanges and supports tasks like configuration backups and updates. The software is known for its user-friendly interface, stability, and ability to manage large file transfers, catering to a variety of secure file management needs.

Pros:

• Users find SolarWinds FTP easy to set up for file transfers, notably with Palo Alto systems, highlighting its efficiency and speed in data exchange.³⁵

Cons:

• The software’s reliance on Java for operation means Serv-U cannot function without it installed, posing a limitation for users without Java.³⁶

What is Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP)?

The Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is a network protocol that enables file access, transfer, and management over a secure data stream. SFTP is an enhancement of the Secure Shell protocol (SSH) version 2.0, aimed at providing secure file transfer functionalities. It is often considered a more secure alternative to the traditional File Transfer Protocol (FTP).

SFTP vs. FTPS: Understanding the Differences and Benefits

When it comes to secure file transfers across the internet, SFTP and FTPS are the technologies, offering robust encryption and secure data exchange mechanisms. Both protocols ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data but operate on different principles and infrastructure, catering to diverse security needs and network environments.

SFTP: Secure and Versatile

SFTP, leveraging SSH (Secure Shell) for secure data and command transfer, encrypts the entire session, including both data and commands. This protocol:

• Ensures comprehensive security through SSH, encrypting all transferred information.
• Simplifies network configurations by using a single port, easing firewall and routing setups.
• Provides flexible authentication methods, including passwords, public keys, and SSH keys.
• Offers additional file management capabilities, allowing operations like permission changes and directory listings on remote files.

FTPS: Enhanced Legacy FTP with Encryption

FTPS enhances the traditional FTP protocol with SSL/TLS encryption, securing data transfers with:

• SSL/TLS encryption for the command and/or data channels, protecting data integrity and confidentiality.
• Utilization of port 21 for control commands and dynamic ports for data transfers, which may necessitate complex firewall configurations.
• Authentication via X.509 certificates, ensuring server and optionally client verification.
• Compatibility with existing FTP infrastructure, allowing for an easy security upgrade of legacy systems.

Deciding between them involves weighing the need for heightened security against the ease of integration with current systems, aiming for secure and efficient data transfers in the modern digital environment.

Further Reading

• What is Managed File Transfer? Use Cases & Benefits in 2024
• Top 4 Globalscape Alternatives in ’24 Based on 500+ Reviews
• Top 8 Managed File Transfer (MFT) Solutions in 2024
• Top 6 AS2 Software Solutions in 2024: Picks from 400+ Reviews
• Axway Managed File Transfer: Key Things to Consider in 24′

External Links

• 1. “JSCAPE”. G2
• 2. “JSCAPE Review by Madhu B.”. G2
• 3. “JSCAPE Review by Aishwarya S.”. G2
• 4. “JSCAPE”. G2
• 5. “JSCAPE Review by Maciej M.”. G2
• 6. “JSCAPE Review by Kayur P.”. Capterra
• 7. “MOVEit”. G2
• 8. “MOVEit Review By Ashish K.”. G2
• 9. “MOVEit” . Capterra
• 10. “MOVEit Review By Matthew L.” . G2
• 11. “GoAnywhere MFT”. Capterra
• 12. “GoAnywhere MFT”. Capterra
• 13. “GoAnywhere MFT”. G2
• 14. “GoAnywhere MFT” . Capterra
• 15. “GoAnywhere MFT” . Capterra
• 16. “GoAnywhere MFT Review by Alana W.” . Capterra
• 17. “Files.com Review” . G2
• 18. “Files.com Review”. G2
• 19. “Files.com Review” . G2
• 20. “Files.com Review” .G2
• 21. ”Raphael G.’s Review of Cerberus FTP Server”. Capterra. May 18, 2020. Retrieved February 14, 2024
• 22. “Cerberus”. Capterra
• 23. “Ronny H.’s Review of Cerberus”. Capterra
• 24. “David H.’s Review of Cerberus FTP Server”. Capterra
• 25. “Cerberus”. Capterra
• 26. “Cerberus”. Capterra
• 27. “Sheetal N.’s Review of Thru Inc.” .G2
• 28. “Katrina S.’s Review of Thru Inc.” .G2
• 29. “A Review of Thru Inc.” .G2
• 30. “A Review of Thru Inc.” .G2
• 31. “Globalscape Review.”. G2
• 32. “Globalscape Review.” . G2
• 33. “Globalscape Review.” .G2
• 34. “Globalscape Review.” .G2
• 35. “SolarWinds Review by Rishabh P.”. G2
• 36. “SolarWind Review.”. G2