Core FTP vs ST Explorer

Core FTP is Windows software for transferring and managing files using multiple protocols. Its free client, Core FTP LE, provides FTP features without popup ads, advertising, spyware, or registration reminders. Transfers can use SSL, TLS, FTPS, HTTPS, or SFTP. The software also supports file synchronization, scheduled transfers, automation, site-to-site transfers, command-line operations, a portable version, and browser integration. Core FTP Pro can encrypt and decrypt files to servers and adds email notifications, external program execution, and IBM Information Exchange support with command-line updates. The client includes HIPAA-compliant security, and educational institutions qualify for a free FTP client site license. Client licenses are restricted to use with the client software, and listed license support is by email only. Paid Standard and Pro license listings vary by quantity and billing terms: a Standard single-user license is listed at $24.95 a month, while another Standard single-user listing is $24.95, paid once. Check each license’s terms before choosing, since the listings show different billing formats.

ST Explorer is a free native SFTP client for browsing and transferring remote files on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It offers icons, list, and column views, plus an integrated SSH terminal that supports multiple tabs on the same connection. Transfers include drag-and-drop uploads, clipboard uploads, server-side remote-to-remote copies, and a live progress panel. On Windows, files copied in Explorer can be pasted into ST Explorer using native clipboard integration. The site says host key pinning uses known_hosts with TOFU, and describes the app as having no telemetry or phone-home behavior. ST Explorer is open source under the MIT license and is approximately 12 MB as a single executable without an installer. The listed Free plan costs nothing; it specifies Windows 10/11 with WebView2, while macOS and Linux builds are available from source. SSH key authentication is supported. Stivetec makes the app and links to GitHub for issue reports.