Progress WS_FTP
File transfer protocol (FTP) software
Data integration tools
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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$54.95 per license
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What is Progress WS_FTP
Progress WS_FTP is an FTP/SFTP/FTPS file transfer product that provides client and server software for moving files between systems. It is used by IT teams and business users who need managed file transfers, ad hoc transfers, and basic automation for recurring file movement. The product includes a Windows-based server component and a desktop client, with options for web-based transfer and administrative controls depending on edition. It is typically deployed for internal file exchange, partner file delivery, and replacing manual FTP workflows.
Broad protocol support
WS_FTP supports common file transfer protocols including FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, which helps standardize transfers across heterogeneous endpoints. This reduces the need to maintain separate tools for different partner or system requirements. It also fits environments where legacy FTP still exists alongside encrypted protocols. Protocol breadth is a practical baseline requirement in this product space.
Windows-centric administration
The server component is designed for Windows environments and aligns with common Windows administration patterns. This can simplify deployment and operations for teams that already manage Windows servers and user access centrally. It is suitable for organizations that want an on-premises file transfer server without adopting a broader integration platform. The desktop client also supports user-driven transfers in addition to server-side services.
Automation for recurring transfers
WS_FTP includes capabilities to schedule or script recurring transfers, supporting routine operational workflows such as nightly file drops and periodic exports. This reduces reliance on manual uploads/downloads and lowers the risk of missed transfers. Automation features are useful for simple integration-style use cases where file movement is the primary requirement. It can serve as a lightweight alternative to heavier B2B gateway tooling when needs are straightforward.
Not a full MFT suite
Compared with products positioned as managed file transfer (MFT) platforms, WS_FTP may offer fewer enterprise controls such as advanced workflow orchestration, centralized policy enforcement across multiple nodes, and extensive auditing/reporting options. Organizations with strict compliance requirements often evaluate deeper governance features. If requirements include complex partner onboarding and end-to-end process visibility, a dedicated MFT platform may be a closer fit. This can limit suitability for large-scale B2B file exchange programs.
Limited data integration depth
While it supports file movement and basic automation, WS_FTP is not primarily a data integration tool for transforming, mapping, or orchestrating multi-step integrations. Teams needing schema mapping, API-led integration, or complex ETL/ELT workflows typically require additional integration software. As a result, WS_FTP often becomes one component in a broader integration architecture rather than the central integration layer. This can increase overall solution complexity when integration needs grow.
Primarily on-prem deployment model
WS_FTP is commonly deployed on customer-managed infrastructure, which places responsibility for patching, scaling, and high availability on internal teams. Organizations that prefer fully managed cloud services may find this operationally heavier than cloud-native file transfer services. Achieving resilience (e.g., clustering, DR) can require additional design and infrastructure. This can be a constraint for small teams or rapidly scaling workloads.
Plan & Pricing
WS_FTP Server (tiered):
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $874.50 per license | FTP/SSL/FTPS, User Management, Microsoft AD Authentication, File Management, Syslog Integration, Perpetual License. Support included (phone & remote web). |
| Secure | $1864.50 per license | Everything in Basic plus SSH/SFTP, FIPS-140-2 validated cryptography, Ad-Hoc Users (25), OpenSSL 3.0. Support included. |
| Premium | $4944.50 per license | Everything in Secure plus Unlimited Ad-Hoc Users, Web Transfer Module (HTTP/S), LDAP Integration, HTTPS, SCP2. Support included. |
WS_FTP Professional Client (tiered):
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single User License | $54.95 per license | Secure FTP client, perpetual license, 30-day warranty, community support. |
| Single User + Support | $89.95 per license | Single user license plus 1-year email support. |
| Multiple Users + Support | $390 per 5 licenses | Bulk package: 5 licenses with 1-year email support; "Buy more, save more". |
Seller details
Progress Software Corporation
Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
1981
Public
https://www.progress.com/
https://x.com/ProgressSW
https://www.linkedin.com/company/progress-software/
