Documentation

Everything you need to get started with GlideFile

Introduction

GlideFile is a modern FTP/SFTP client designed for developers and web professionals. It supports FTP, FTPS (FTP over TLS), and SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) connections.

Key features include:

  • Native performance on macOS, Windows, and Linux
  • End-to-end encrypted credential storage
  • Cloud synchronization across all your devices
  • Keyboard-first design with extensive shortcuts
  • Dark mode support

Installation

macOS

Download the DMG from our website or install via Homebrew:

brew install --cask glidefile

Windows

Download the installer from our website or use winget:

winget install GlideFile

Linux

Available as AppImage, Flatpak, or DEB/RPM packages. Download from our website or your distribution's package manager.

First Connection

  1. Open GlideFile and click "New Server" or press ⌘N (macOS) / Ctrl+N (Windows/Linux)
  2. Enter your server details:
    • Name: A friendly name for your server
    • Host: Server address (e.g., ftp.example.com)
    • Protocol: FTP, FTPS, or SFTP
    • Port: Usually 21 (FTP/FTPS) or 22 (SFTP)
    • Username: Your login username
    • Password: Your password (or SSH key for SFTP)
  3. Click "Connect" to establish the connection

Server Setup

You can configure advanced options for each server:

  • Remote Path: Default directory to open on connection
  • Local Path: Associated local folder for quick access
  • Color: Color-code servers for easy identification
  • Notes: Add notes or documentation for the server

SSH Keys

For SFTP connections, you can use SSH key authentication:

  1. In the server configuration, select "SSH Key" as the authentication method
  2. Click "Browse" to select your private key file (usually ~/.ssh/id_rsa)
  3. Enter the passphrase if your key is encrypted

Note: Your private key never leaves your device. Only the encrypted configuration is synced to the cloud.

Cloud Sync

GlideFile can synchronize your server configurations across devices:

  1. Create a GlideFile account or sign in
  2. Enable sync in Preferences → Account
  3. Your servers will automatically sync across all devices

Security: Passwords and private keys are encrypted on your device before being sent to our servers. We cannot read your credentials.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Action macOS Windows/Linux
New Server ⌘N Ctrl+N
Connect ⌘O Ctrl+O
Disconnect ⌘W Ctrl+W
Upload ⌘U Ctrl+U
Download ⌘D Ctrl+D
Refresh ⌘R Ctrl+R
Quick Open ⌘K Ctrl+K

Connection Issues

Connection Timeout

If you're experiencing timeouts:

  • Verify the server address and port
  • Check your firewall settings
  • Try passive mode for FTP connections

Authentication Failed

If authentication fails:

  • Double-check your username and password
  • For SSH keys, ensure the key is added to the server's authorized_keys
  • Verify the key passphrase is correct

FAQ

Is my data secure?

Yes. All credentials are encrypted end-to-end using AES-256. We cannot read your passwords or private keys.

Can I use GlideFile offline?

Yes. GlideFile works fully offline. Cloud sync happens automatically when you're online.

How do I transfer my license to a new computer?

Simply sign in with your GlideFile account on the new computer. Your license is tied to your account, not your device.