Windows · File Management
Cyberduck for Windows
Free, open-source file transfer client for Windows that connects to FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and major cloud storage providers with a simple single-pane interface.
Updated August 9, 2026 · Reviewed by SoftNexi Editorial Team, Software research and documentation
Overview
Cyberduck is a free, open-source client for FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV, and it extends further than most transfer tools into cloud storage: Amazon S3, Backblaze B2, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Storage, and OneDrive-style connections are supported directly, alongside more traditional protocols.
Rather than a dual-pane transfer layout, Cyberduck typically shows one connection window at a time with a simple browser-style list, favoring simplicity and a bookmark-driven workflow over the side-by-side comparison views found in WinSCP or FileZilla.
It also integrates with Mountain Duck, a separate paid companion product from the same developer that mounts remote storage as a local drive letter — Cyberduck itself remains free and open source for standard browsing and transfers.
It suits users whose work spans both traditional servers and modern cloud object storage, since it avoids needing a separate app for each cloud provider. Users who specifically want a dual-pane, side-by-side transfer view will likely prefer WinSCP or FileZilla instead.
Key features
- FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV support
- Direct connections to Amazon S3, Azure, Google Cloud Storage, Backblaze B2, and more
- Bookmark-based connection management
- Browser-style single-pane interface with drag-and-drop transfers
- Integration with the separate Mountain Duck drive-mounting tool
- Editing files in an external editor with automatic re-upload on save
System requirements
- Operating system
- Windows 11 and Windows 10 (64-bit); also available for macOS
How to install Cyberduck
1. Download from the developer
Open cyberduck.io/download and download the Windows installer.
2. Install
Run the installer with administrator rights and launch Cyberduck from the Start menu.
3. Add a bookmark
Choose Open Connection, select the protocol or cloud provider, and enter your server or account details, then save it as a bookmark.
How to use it
1. Connect to cloud storage
Choose Open Connection, select Amazon S3 (or another supported provider), and enter your access credentials to browse buckets like folders.
2. Edit a remote file directly
Right-click a remote file and choose Edit With to open it in a local application; Cyberduck re-uploads it automatically when you save.
3. Transfer files
Drag files from Windows Explorer into the Cyberduck window, or use the toolbar's transfer button to queue uploads and downloads.
Safety and privacy
- We link only to the developer's own cyberduck.io download page, the official distribution channel.
- Cyberduck is open source, so its connection and encryption handling code is publicly reviewable.
- Bundled software
- The official installer does not bundle third-party offers.
- Privacy
- Connects only to servers and cloud accounts you configure; credentials can be stored in the operating system's credential manager.
Known risks
- Cloud provider credentials (access keys, tokens) are sensitive — store them via the OS credential manager rather than plain bookmarks where possible.
What's new
9.x series
Recent releases have continued cloud provider compatibility updates and interface refinements. Check cyberduck.io for the current version and full change log before installing.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and open source
- Broad cloud storage protocol support beyond plain FTP/SFTP
- Simple, approachable interface for occasional users
- External editor integration speeds up quick remote file edits
Cons
- Single-pane browser style lacks the side-by-side comparison view of WinSCP or FileZilla
- Drive-letter mounting requires the separate paid Mountain Duck product
- Less suited to heavy scripted/automated transfer workflows than WinSCP
Verdict
Cyberduck is the strongest pick among these clients for anyone routinely moving files to cloud object storage as well as traditional servers, thanks to its broad provider support. WinSCP or FileZilla are better suited to users who prefer a dual-pane comparison view or heavier scripting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cyberduck free?
Yes, Cyberduck itself is free and open source. Mountain Duck, a related tool that mounts remote storage as a drive letter, is a separate paid product.
Does Cyberduck support Amazon S3?
Yes, along with several other cloud storage providers such as Azure, Google Cloud Storage, and Backblaze B2, in addition to FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV.
Is Cyberduck available on Mac?
Yes, Cyberduck is cross-platform with builds for both Windows and macOS.