How to Change the Transfer Mode in FileZilla

FileZilla supports different FTP transfer modes that determine how the connection between your computer and the FTP server is established.

In some network environments, changing the transfer mode can help resolve connection issues, directory listing problems, or file transfer failures.

Available Transfer Modes

FileZilla supports three transfer mode options:

Default

Default

FileZilla automatically uses the transfer mode configured in the application’s global settings.

Active Mode

Active

In Active mode, the FTP server initiates the data connection back to your computer.

This mode may cause issues if:

• You are behind a firewall.
• You are using a router with NAT.
• Incoming connections are restricted.

Passive Mode

Passive

In Passive mode, your computer initiates both the control and data connections.

This is the recommended mode in most situations because it works better with:

• Home internet connections.
• Corporate networks.
• Firewalls.
• NAT routers.

How to Change the Transfer Mode

Step 1

Open FileZilla.

Step 2

From the top menu, select:

File → Site Manager

Step 3

In the Site Manager window:

1. Select the saved FTP connection from the list on the left.
2. Open the:

Transfer Settings

tab.

Step 4

Enable:

Limit number of simultaneous connections

if you want to control how many connections FileZilla establishes at the same time.

Step 5

Under the transfer mode settings, choose one of the following:

Default

Active

Passive

For most users, we recommend selecting:

Passive

Step 6

Click:

OK

to save the changes.

When Should You Use Passive Mode?

Passive mode is recommended when:

• Directory listings fail to load.
• File uploads or downloads stall.
• The FTP connection works intermittently.
• You are behind a router or firewall.
• Your internet provider restricts incoming connections.

Limiting Simultaneous Connections

The Transfer Settings tab also allows you to limit the number of simultaneous FTP connections.

This can be useful when:

• Uploading large numbers of files.
• Reducing server load.
• Troubleshooting connection issues.
• Working with hosting providers that limit concurrent connections.

A typical value is:

2–5 simultaneous connections

unless your hosting provider specifies otherwise.

Summary

To change the transfer mode in FileZilla:

1. Open:

File → Site Manager

2. Select your FTP connection.
3. Open the:

Transfer Settings

tab.
4. Choose:

• Default
• Active
• Passive

For most environments, Passive Mode provides the best compatibility and is the recommended option when connecting to FTP servers.