filezilla
Transfer files between computers using FTP/SFTP
SYNOPSIS
filezilla [OPTION]... [HOST[[:PORT]]]
PARAMETERS
-h, --help
Display this help message and exit
-v, --version
Show version information
-s, --site <name>
Connect to the saved site with the given name
--site-manager
Shows the site manager on startup
-c, --close
Close all running instances of FileZilla
--verbose
More verbose logging output
--logontype=<type>
Logon type: 1=normal, 2=ask, 3=interactive, 4=account
--user=<user>
User name
--passwd=<pass>
Password
--port=<port>
Port number
--admin-password=<pass>
Admin password (for server)
DESCRIPTION
FileZilla is a free, open-source cross-platform graphical client for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols. The filezilla command launches its intuitive GUI, enabling secure file transfers between local filesystems and remote servers.
It features a dual-pane interface for local and remote directories, drag-and-drop transfers, site manager for saving connection details, directory comparison, speed limits, and queue management for multiple transfers. Supports resuming interrupted downloads/uploads and proxy configurations.
On Linux, it's commonly used for managing web servers, backups, and large file syncing. The command accepts options to auto-connect to servers or sites, making it script-friendly for launching specific sessions. Highly reliable with multi-threaded transfers for optimal performance.
Ideal for users needing a robust alternative to browser-based FTP, though it requires a graphical environment like X11 or Wayland.
CAVEATS
Graphical tool requiring X11/Wayland; not suitable for headless servers. Passwords in args visible in process list—use site manager instead.
INSTALLATION
Debian/Ubuntu: sudo apt install filezilla
Fedora: sudo dnf install filezilla
Arch: sudo pacman -S filezilla
CONFIGURATION
Settings stored in ~/.config/filezilla/filezilla.xml. Use site manager GUI for secure credential storage.
HISTORY
Developed by Tim Kosse starting 2001 as university project. First public release 2004. Linux ports from v2.x (2005); now v3.6x series with ongoing SFTP enhancements.
