What is WinSCP?
WinSCP is an open-source and free SFTP, SCP, and FTP client developed for Windows operating systems. It allows users to securely connect to remote servers and transfer files. Due to its support for the SSH protocol, encrypted file transfer is possible via SFTP.
It is widely preferred by both individual users and system administrators due to its user-friendly graphical interface. It is especially frequently used by VPS and VDS server users.
Key Features of WinSCP
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SFTP, SCP, FTP, and WebDAV protocol support
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Secure connection integrated with SSH
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Classic File Explorer or Norton Commander interface
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File synchronization (comparison and synchronization)
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Easy file transfer with drag-and-drop
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Command line and automation support
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Key-based connection support
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Ability to open a terminal with Putty integration
How to Download and Install WinSCP?
Official download link: https://winscp.net/eng/download.php
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Download and run the setup file.
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Choose the "Commander" or "Explorer" interface during installation.
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After the installation is complete, a shortcut is created on the desktop.
Connecting to a Remote Server with WinSCP
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Create a New Session: After opening the application, the new connection screen appears.
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Select Connection Type: SFTP is recommended (more secure than FTP).
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Enter Information:
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Host name: VPS IP address
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Port: Usually 22 for SSH
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Username: root or authorized username
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Password: password or SSH key
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Advanced Settings:
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To connect with an SSH Key, a .ppk file can be selected from "Advanced > Authentication".
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Save the Connection and Connect.
Using WinSCP on VPS and VDS Servers
Fast and secure file transfer is possible with WinSCP for VPS and VDS servers you will receive from ekasunucu.com. Website files, database backups, log files, and system updates can be easily uploaded to or downloaded from the server.
Using WinSCP with Germany Location VPS
Germany Location VPS services provide fast and seamless file transfers thanks to the low ping advantage of being based in Europe. It works in full compliance with the SSH infrastructure.
Local Access Advantage with Turkey Location VPS
Connecting with WinSCP via Turkey location VPS offers high speed in file transfers thanks to local network performance. Also, hosting configurations and system files can be easily edited remotely.
Using WinSCP with Physical Servers with Graphics Cards
It is possible to securely transfer large data sets with WinSCP in projects made with GPU-supported graphics card physical servers. It is an ideal solution for high-capacity transfers, especially in AI model training, visual data processing, and rendering processes.
Comparison with Other SSH/SFTP Tools
Feature | WinSCP | OpenSSH (Linux) | Bitvise SSH Client | MobaXterm |
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GUI Interface | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
SFTP Support | ✅ | ✅ (terminal based) | ✅ Built-in | ✅ Automatic |
File Synchronization | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
SCP Support | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Terminal Access | ❌ (Putty integration) | ✅ | ✅ Built-in | ✅ Built-in |
Frequently Encountered Errors and Solutions
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“Network error: Connection refused”
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The server may be down or the SSH service is disabled.
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“Authentication failed”
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The username, password, or SSH key file may be incorrect.
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“Connection timeout”
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There may be a firewall or port forwarding error.
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Conclusion: Easy and Secure File Transfer with WinSCP
WinSCP is one of the most preferred tools in remote server management thanks to its user-friendly interface and powerful features. It is an effective SFTP/FTP solution for both beginners and professionals. It works in full compliance with our VPS and VDS infrastructures.
Explore our Germany location VPS, Turkey location VPS and GPU physical server options for sending files to the server, backing up data, and remote configuration.
Our other SSH/SFTP guide contents: