Windows FTP Server Alternative
Enhance security and simplify remote access by securely replacing Windows FTP servers with MyWorkDrive's web-based file manager
Issues with Windows FTP
FTP continues to be a primary access method for enabling remote access, fast file transfers, and public sharing. Unfortunately, the options for Windows FTP server security are a choice between best practices and ease of use. It’s easy to configure methods that provide fast access using traditional FTP Server access, such as the built-in Windows FTP Server service; however, security is poor, and the user must install and learn how to use FTP client software.
Although great for fast transfers, by default all FTP network communications are in clear text - including passwords. Solving this issue involves adding TLS SSL certificates to the server through the use of 3rd party software.
Unfortunately, since browser clients do not support secured FTP communications IT must also manage the additional support burden of assisting users with the installation, configuration, and training of secure FTP client software.
How MyWorkDrive Helps
MyWorkDrive replaces a Windows FTP server with our cloud add-on server module for Windows file servers. All network communications occur over HTTPS using SSL certificates instead of FTP. From a support perspective, IT simply makes our web browser site available to users for easy web-based file access with no software to be installed or configured – reducing the related support costs around FTP.
The MyWorkDrive web file manager client is engineered to handle unlimited file sizes through our chunked upload capabilities. With MyWorkDrive, a traditional File Server is immediately converted into a secure replacement for FTP Servers while giving Enterprises the best of both worlds – a local-based secure ftp alternative and an easy-to-use Web File Manager browser client loaded with the additional Cloud Services users have come to expect.
Enterprises can additionally enable two-factor authentication through MyWorkDrive's DUO integration for even greater security - something not available when utilizing Windows FTP Servers and FTP client software.
Key Technical Features
- Chunked Upload Support: Handles unlimited file sizes, even over the web.
- No Data Migration: Continues using existing Windows File Shares.
- Office 365 Integration: Users can edit documents online without syncing or transferring files.
- DUO Two-Factor Authentication: Adds enterprise-grade security—not available in traditional FTP setups.
MyWorkDrive Benefits at a Glance
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Web File Manager | Access files securely from any browser—no FTP clients needed |
| Office 365 Integration | Collaborate in Office Online with files stored on-premises |
| Local Office Editing | Edit directly with installed Office apps while keeping files on the server |
| Mobile App Support | Access files securely on iPad, iPhone, and Android |
| Internal File Links | Share files easily within the organization |
| OneDrive Public Links | Share files externally without exposing your file server |
| DUO 2FA | Enhance authentication security with Two-Factor Authentication |
| AD Integration | Inherits NTFS permissions, Users, and Groups—no duplication |
| Real-Time Logging | Monitor file access with detailed audit trails |
How It Works
- Install MyWorkDrive on a standard Windows Server joined to Active Directory.
- Connects to Active Directory automatically—no configuration required.
- Publish existing Windows File Shares through the MyWorkDrive interface.
- Leverage existing NTFS permissions, Users, and Groups.
- A secure HTTPS Web File Portal is made accessible to users.
All files stay on your server. Nothing is stored or synced to MyWorkDrive—even when using Office 365 for editing.
Business Benefits: A Modern FTP Server Replacement
- Eliminate FTP server and VPN complexity
- Prevent data leakage by keeping files on local servers—even during editing
- Access files remotely using any web browser, iPad, iPhone, Android, or desktop
- Secure authentication with DUO Two-Factor Authentication
- Collaborate with external partners via OneDrive integration
- No external public user accounts to manage like traditional FTP servers
- Lower IT support costs using built-in Windows permissions
- Monitor usage with real-time file access logging
- Maintain full control over data access, storage, and backup retention
Designed for the Enterprise IT Admin
- Fully Windows-based architecture
- Built on IIS Web Server
- Developed in .NET
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Built and Engineered by IT professionals for IT professionals with over 25 years of experience in:
- Windows File Server Remote Access
- FTP Server management
- SSL VPN configuration and support