FTP: When and How to Use File Transfer Protocol

What Is FTP All About?
Very briefly, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used to transfer programs or other information from one computer to another. This simple tool will let you do many things: download software, upload your own web pages, transfer information between your home and work machines, and more. You don't need to learn a lot of confusing commands, either. As is so often true with computers, the right tool makes the job much easier.

What Is Anonymous FTP?
You're about to discover some of the greatest resources on the Internet. You'll use anonymous FTP to download software from computers where you do not personally have an account. You can get updates from Apple or Microsoft, download utility programs from many universities, or try demos of many commercial software packages.

If you get your Internet access from a local service provider, you may be able to use anonymous FTP to get recommended software, help files, or other handy information.

Can I Use My Web Browser For My FTP Needs?
If you've ever clicked on a link to download the newest version of your favorite web browser, then you may have already used anonymous FTP. Downloading files with your web browser is certainly the easiest way to use FTP, although it does have its limitations.

To explore some of the places where you can download software on the web, visit our Surfing for Software page.

When Do I Need A Separate Program For FTP?
You can download from your web browser, but sometimes you'll want to use the extra features available from a good shareware FTP client. For example, you might want to download all the files in a given directory. A good FTP client makes this much easier.

You'll also need it for uploading and downloading files from your personal directory (especially when you get around to building your own home page on the web.)

Where Can I Find A Good FTP Program?
Windows users can try a free copy of WS_FTP Limited Edition. There are versions available for both Windows95 and Windows 3.1x. Visit Stroud's Consummate Winsock Apps List and download the latest version.
Windows 95 Users: remember to choose the 32-bit version.

Once you have downloaded and installed your copy, please visit our Instructions for using WS-FTP for Windows.

Mac users can try Fetch. Visit Fetch Softworks and download the latest version.

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