GUI Tools

There are many options available for transferring files, we recommend either CyberDuck (macOS and Windows) or FileZilla (Linux).

CyberDuck

CyberDuck is free software, although it will periodically nag you for a donation - alternatively you can buy a copy from the Apple App Store or Microsoft Windows store. If your computer is Orchard managed this should already have been installed as part of the software bundle included.

Once installed and running you can open a connection using the Open Connection globe icon. From the drop-down choose SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) and then enter the host name into the box provided. Unless told otherwise by instructions for the host you are connecting to leave the port set to 22.

You may enter your username and password or leave these blank to be prompted when connecting. Please do not store your password in the Keychain (on macOS) - we recommend using a Password Manager instead. 

Click Connect to connect to the remote server. You can then navigate the remote folder and drag/drop files to/from as required.

If this is the first time you have connected to a particular server you will be given the 'fingerprint' of the server - if this is a WIN server you can check this on our SSH page. Tick the box to always accept this fingerprint - should it change on the server, you will be notified and connections will not be attempted.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

If the remote server requires MFA then the default settings for CyberDuck will mean that for each transfer you request you will need to enter your credentials afresh. To avoid this, change CyberDuck's preferences to use a persistent connection. Open the Preferences window then in Transfers > General, change Transfer Files to Use browser connection.

FileZilla

Linux users should consider using FileZilla (other clients are available). It should be a simple install from your OS's software centre.

When you launch FileZilla you can connect simply by filling out the Quickconnect section at the top, hostname, username and password and port 22 (for SFTP). The first icon in the tool bar allows you to save connections for multiple servers.

Never agree to store your password in FileZilla's store - consider using a Password Manager instead if you are unable to remember your password.

The first time you connect to a server you will be given a prompt advising you that the host key for this server is unknown - for WIN servers you can check this on our SSH page. Tick the 'Always trust this host...' box if it is correct and then click OK to continue. If the key were to change you will be warned and connections will not be made. Other services should publicise their server fingerprints.

Once connected you will have a view of your local files on the left and the remote folder on the right, drag/drop between these sections to transfer files.

Multi-Factor Authentication

To avoid the need to continually enter your password and second factor when transferring multiple files during a session, use the Site Manager (first icon on the tool bar) to create a new site. Give it a memorable name, e.g. BMRC, choose the SFTP - SSH File Transfer Protocol option, fill in the host field then in the Transfer Settings tab tick the Limit number of simultaneous connections and ensure that the maximum number of connections is set to 1. 

Leave the Logon Type set to Ask for password - consider using a Password Manager instead if you are unable to remember your password.

Click OK to save.

To open a saved connection, visit the Site Manager, select the site in the tree on the left and click the Connect button.