FTP stands for “file transfer protocol.” FTP is best to use when transferring large or multiple files to and from servers.

Fetch, by Fetch Softworks, has been one of the best FTP programs for the Apple Macintosh since long before OSX was even a glimmer in Apple’s eye. I’ve been using Fetch since the OS8 era but it dates back to “System 7.” That would be close to the automobile’s Model-T era.

Fetch’s Core Features

Using Fetch is super easy to use. You first establish an FTP or SFTP connection by opening a connection window (pictured right) and typing in your FTP login information, or by using a saved connection. A window opens (picture #2) to the location you have connected to which then shows the existing files and folders in an OSX finder style layout. From there you can perform many functions such as downloading files, uploading files, deleting, editing files, creating folders and editing permissions.

Uploading & Downloading

Fetch uses simple drag and drop, or icon/menu based controls to upload and download files. To easily upload a file, find the file in a finder window and drag it to the Fetch window. If you drag a folder there, Fetch is smart enough to create the same folder and upload the files and subfolders within. A preference setting for automatically replacing files with the same name makes updating your server or remote files easy. If you aren’t sure if you should be replacing files, that feature can be turned off and Fetch will ask for a confirmation before replacing files.