Free tftp server windows

Tftpd64

The industry standard
TFTP server


Tftpd64 is a free, lightweight, opensource IPv6 ready application which includes DHCP, TFTP, DNS, SNTP and Syslog servers as well as a TFTP client.
The TFTP client and server are fully compatible with TFTP option support (tsize, blocksize and timeout), which allow the maximum performance when transferring the data.
Some extended features such as directory facility, security tuning, interface filtering; progress bars and early acknowledgments enhance usefulness and throughput of the TFTP protocol for both client and server.
The included DHCP server provides unlimited automatic or static IP address assignment.

Tftpd64 is also provided as a Windows service.

Tftpd32 is the same application compiled as a 32 bits application.


TFTP Servers is a piece of software that every network admin and engineer will use one day or another, so we’ve come up with a list of the Best free TFTP server software along with direct links to download them from.

What is TFTP used For?

TFTP, Trivial File Transfer protocol, is a file transfer protocol is used for transferring small files using UDP across networks, preferably LAN’s, as UDP is a connection-less protocol with no confirmation of packets received/sent.

The use of TFTP is very prevalent with Network Engineers who are constantly working and monitoring Cisco switches and routers and other brands that offer the ability to upgrade, backup and save config files and OS firmware via trivial file transfer servers.

Grab one of the downloads below and get it setup to use in your network immediately, most are FREE or very affordable.

These TFTP Servers will work on almost all versions of Windows, including Windows 10, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 7, Windows 2008 Server, Windows 2012 & 2016 Server.

Related Posts:

Best SFTP Servers & Tools
Best File Server Monitoring Software

Here’s a List of Free TFTP Servers:

    1. TFTPD32
    2. haneWin
    3. OpenTFTP Server (SourceForge)
    4. WinAgents TFTP
    5. WhatsUp Gold TFTP
    6. Spiceworks
    7. SolarWinds TFTP Server

    There is no particular order of the list below and we’ll update as more software is available. If you have any recommendations, please feel free to send us an email and we’ll add the software to the list.

      Transfer Send Share Large Files

      As the Internet expands to include more users, it becomes essential to tap into different types of media to garner the attention of people from varying walks of life. While some people are avid readers who wouldn’t mind reading a 5000-word article, others may be visual learners who’d prefer to watch a video, listen to a podcast, or look through images and infographics to learn. These varying requirements have made it necessary to transfer or share large files. Remember, your video and animation files can take up a ton of space when compared to a text or audio file. In turn, you need the right tools to send, transfer, or share large files. The Best Ways to Transfer, Send or Share Large Files Here are 6 different ways to transfer, send, or share large files. Pick the one that works best for you. Upload to the Cloud UDP solutions Ship… See Full Review

      tftpd32 tftp server

      TFTPD32 is free, open-source TFTP server that is also includes a variety of different services, including DHCP, TFTP, DNS, and even syslog and functions as a TFTP Client as well. TFTPD32 also comes as a x64 version that gets installed as a windows service. This server is fully compatible with all the TFTP option support including tsize, blocksize and timeout to give you the best performance when transferring files back and forth. Official Site and Download Links Check out the official site for more information: http://www.tftpd64.com/ See Full Review

      haneWin TFTP Server is a tiny trivial File transfer server that has all the bells and whistles of a expensive paid variation — We dive into the Features & More! See Full Review

      Best SCP Server Software

      SCP Servers help you transfer files to and from servers, computers and other networking devices using a secure-tunnel via SSH. Secure Copy, or SC in short, is a network protocol that supports file transfers between hosts on the same network. It is based on the BSD RCP protocol and uses a secure shell (SSH) to transfer data. It also uses the same process for authentication, and this makes the data transfer both secure and confidential. SCP is mostly used by IT administrators to copy files between servers and networking devices. It is installed in places where users connect to download or upload files. Since it is a popular component, it is available for Linux, Windows and Mac OS. Methodology for selecting the Best SCP Server Software SCP Server Software provides a secure, reliable, and efficient way to transfer files between computers. This type of software is especially important for organizations… See Full Review

      Best SFTP Servers and Tools for Secure File Transfer

      SFTP Servers is a popular Secure File transfer protocol that is one of the most popular protocols for file transfers. Over the last few years, secure versions of FTP called SFTP and FTPS have come up and replaced FTP due to its added layer of security. FTPS is File Transfer Protocol Secure that negotiates through an encrypted TLS tunnel to transfer data. On the other hand, SFTP is not really a FTP server, rather it is an SSH server that also understands FTP commands. As a result, SFTP prevents the unencrypted transfer of login credentials and at the same time, it also generates a unique identifier that has to be transmitted back from the client to complete the transfer. Due to these measures, you can rest assured that your file transfers will be safe with SFTP. Here is our list of the best SFTP Servers: Files.com — FREE TRIAL A… See Full Review

      opentftpserver

      OpenTFTP Server from SourceForge is a small command-line utility for transferring files over Trivial FTP and has quite a bit of popularity amongst SourceForge users — But its fairly outdated now and we only recommend it to power users who are 100% comfortable with using command-line to send/receive files and firmware. See Full Review

      winagents tftp server screenshot

      WinAgents TFTP server offering is a another great solution that will help you transfer files over trivial file transfer protocol and has the added functionality of permissions assignment by IP Address and also multi-threaded support. See Full Review

      Progress WS FTP

      WhatsUp Gold by Progress (formerly IpSwitch) has a small Free Trivial File Transfer Server utility that is great for getting small files back and forth to switches and firewalls as needed. They provided a great little GUI that is easy to use and has all the features that many of the others have above. Grab a free Download from the link below! See Full Review

      SpiceWorks TFTP Server

      Spiceworks provides a TFTP feature in their Tools that performs many of the features you would need when moving files and transferring them. They have a simple command line tool that gives you the flexibility you need to get the job done. See Full Review

TFTP is critical in maintaining embedded device patches and configurations and will be around for a long time to come. We show you the best TFTP servers for both Windows and Linux systems.

Linux and Internet Security Expert

Updated: November 20, 2024

Best Free FTP Servers for Windows Linux and Mac

A TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol) server is a simple file transfer protocol commonly used in computer networking environments. It allows for the transfer of files between a TFTP server and client devices over a network.

Unlike other file transfer protocols such as FTP or SFTP, TFTP is a lightweight protocol that provides basic functionality with minimal features.

The main purpose of a TFTP server is to facilitate the efficient transfer of files, particularly in situations where a small and lightweight protocol is sufficient.

Here’s our list of the best free TFTP server software:

  1. Windows TFTP Utility EDITOR’S CHOICE This is a straightforward tool for transferring files via TFTP protocol. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and ideal for network device configurations.
  2. TFTPD64 A package of useful network monitors that includes a DHCP server monitor, a DNS monitor, and a Syslog server as well as a TFTP server software.
  3. haneWIN TFTP server 32-bit and 64-bit TFTP server for Windows environments that can be restricted in operations to IP address or directory.
  4. Pinkie A bundle of tools delivered in a tabbed interface that runs on Windows systems and includes a TFTP server.
  5. SolarWinds Free TFTP server This tool runs on Windows and includes an IP-range lock-down and can transfer files up to 4GB in size.
  6. atftpd Linux command-line utility that is fast at transferring files but has no inherent network security.
  7. tftpd-hpa Straightforward Linux command line TFTP system.
  8. macOS TFTP server Simple command line TFTP server for macOS.

What is TFTP?

TFTP stands for Trivial File Transfer Protocol. It is a simple file transfer protocol that is commonly used in computer networking environments. TFTP is a stripped-down version of the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) and is designed to be lightweight and easy to implement.

It operates on UDP (User Datagram Protocol) port 69 and does not require authentication or encryption.

The protocol is not capable of allowing more advanced functionality but compensates by using the lockstep method of fault-tolerance that makes it extremely reliable. Due to this limited functionality, TFTP servers can have an extremely small footprint on the disk as well as in memory, making it ideal for use in embedded network devices.

Caution: TFTP has zero security. There is no concept of user accounts so anyone will be able to connect to your TFTP server. Ensure your server machine is secured in some other way such as with a firewall or by limiting the network interfaces the server listens on.

Linux is far and away the most common operating system on the type of devices where you’re likely to encounter a TFTP server. But, there is also a rich ecosystem of Windows and macOS devices that run device firmware (think Apple TVs and Microsoft Surface for a few examples).

See also:

  • Best SCP servers
  • Best SFTP servers

The Best Free Windows TFTP server software

Our methodology for selecting free TFTP server software

We reviewed the market for free TFTP servers and analyzed the options based on the following criteria:

  • A lightweight program that can be integrated into task automation scripts
  • A utility that can be deployed for repetitive tasks on a range of IP addresses
  • A fast transmission method with low traffic overheads
  • The ability to work with virtual environments
  • An activity log
  • Status reports on termination conditions for unattended execution
  • The ability to allow many transfers to run concurrently

We also looked at reliability, ease of setup and use, sufficient documentation and support, and tool robustness in diverse industry use.

1. Windows TFTP Utility

Windows TFTP Utility

The Windows TFTP Utility is a bare-bones TFTP server for Windows systems. It is extremely small and has almost no configuration options. On the one hand, that allows the utility to be very small and fast. On the other hand, it means that you’re unable to specify some basic configuration such as which network interface to bind.

Key Features:

  • Free tool: Permanently free to use
  • Low overheads: Doesn’t use much CPU capacity
  • .NET utility: Available as a class that can be integrated into custom programs
  • Run continuously: Start the program and let it receive files
  • Request Logging: Provides a range of logging options, including to an SQL Server database.

Why do we recommend it?

Windows TFTP Utility is a free utility for Windows, but its name is a little confusing. To be clear, this isn’t a Microsoft product and it isn’t part of Windows. Rather, it is a third-party enthusiast-developed tool that can be installed on Windows. The big advantage of this tool is that it is very basic, which is what most people want from a TFTP server.

Who is it recommended for?

This utility is only suitable for internal use on a private network because, like any TFTP system, it doesn’t include encryption. An advantage of this tool is that it has almost no features, so it is very straightforward and uses very little memory. A nice feature of this tool is that it can be included into your own programs as a function call, so administrators who like to write their own scripts will like this solution.

Pros:

  • Network utility: Use only on a secure network
  • No encryption: Follows the standard protocol of TFTP
  • Use with network devices: Receive and store configuration images
  • Firmware distribution: Use to update the firmware on switches and routers
  • Assists automation: Can be integrated into task automation scripts.

Cons:

  • Dated: The utility is nine years old

The small size comes from a reliance on the .NET framework. But, if you do not already have the .NET framework installed for some other application, that can result in a heavy installation footprint so this utility may not be optimal for every use-case. In addition, it comes with a .NET class that developers can use to incorporate TFTP into their own applications.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Windows TFTP Utility is our top pick for a TFTP server because it offers a lightweight yet powerful solution for transferring files using the Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP). Its streamlined interface ensures that users, regardless of technical proficiency, can quickly set up and manage file transfers. The most important features of this tool include its exceptional speed and reliability, making it an ideal choice for network administrators who need to transfer configurations, firmware, or boot files to routers, switches, and other network devices. Unlike many alternatives, Windows TFTP Utility supports large file transfers and can handle multiple simultaneous connections, making it versatile for both small-scale and enterprise-level applications. The utility also excels in security. It offers customizable access controls, ensuring only authorized devices can access sensitive files. Additionally, its minimal resource footprint allows it to run efficiently on older systems or in constrained environments, which is crucial for IT teams managing diverse networks. Moreover, its comprehensive logging capabilities aid in monitoring and troubleshooting transfers, providing insights into failed or successful operations. Although this utility won’t help users of macOS or Linux, the Windows TFTP Utility is a solid, free tool that implements the Trivial File Transfer Protocol well.

OS: Windows

2. TFTPD64

working_tftpd32

Tftpd64 is a free TFTP server for Windows. The utility also includes a TFTP client, a DNS server, a DHCP server, and a Syslog server. There is also a SNTP receiver in the package to coordinate with the Simple Network Time Protocol.

Key Features:

  • Made for Windows: For 64-bit architecture PCs
  • Multiple functions: The utility provides both TFTP client and server programs
  • Small footprint: Uses few system resources

Why do we recommend it?

TFTPD64 is a package of utilities that includes a TFTP client and a TFTP server. You also get a DHCP server and log management functions in this handy free tool.

It is not only a sleek TFTP server but also bolts on some other features. The list of additional features includes a DHCP server, a DNS server, SNTP (time) server, and a Syslog server, so it will help you manage your IP addresses as well.

Who is it recommended for?

The network administrators of small businesses will enjoy using this utility because it provides a string of useful tools in one interface. Larger networks will need more sophisticated tools.

Pros:

  • Other utilities: The tool also provides log management functions and a DNS server
  • Syslog: Collects Syslog messages
  • Windows utility: Not a command line system

Cons:

  • Windows only: No version for macOS or Linux

It’s pretty difficult to come up with a scenario where you’d need that particular set of features in a single application, but using one or two in addition to a TFTP server may fulfill some need. There is also a 32-bit version of this tool, which is called Tftpd32, which is also free to use.

3. haneWIN TFTP server

The haneWIN TFTP server is a full-featured 32-bit and 64-bit TFTP server that runs on Windows XP/VISTA/20xx (servers)/7/8/10. It breaks from the TFTP model a bit by supporting access controls, which are not natively part of TFTP. This TFTP server can restrict IP addresses to only allow downloading or uploading and access to server directories.

Key Features:

  • Multiple functions: Both client and server are available
  • Permanently free: Not a free trial
  • Small footprint: Uses few system resources

Why do we recommend it?

The haneWIN TFTP server is a slight improvement on the traditional TFTP server because it adds access control to its procedures and can restrict the IP addresses that it will deal with, which goes some way to reducing the risk of intruder manipulation of the file transfer process.

Who is it recommended for?

Network administrators will appreciate the ability to integrate this TFTP server into a script. That opens up the possibility to include file verification processes and other security measures to strengthen the security of networks using TFTP.

Pros:

  • Made for Windows: Available for 32-bit and 64-bit PCs
  • Other utilities: Includes a DHCP server
  • Activity logging: Records all events

Cons:

  • Windows only: No versions for macOS or Linux

An interesting feature is that it can also be run completely on the command-line which makes it very useful for scripted actions. It also includes a TFTP client that runs as a DLL. HaneWIN Software also produces a DHCP server that has an integrated TFTP server.

4. Pinkie

Pinkie

Pinkie is a free Windows-based network monitoring toolset. The different tools in the utility are accessed through tabs at the top of the main dashboard panel of the user interface. This useful little bundle from IPUptime also includes a DNS server, Ping, and Traceroute. The Pinkie TFTP Server just listens. It will pick up any messages sent to its host on port 69.

Key Features

  • Multi-function utility: Includes network testing Ping and Traceroute services
  • TFTP server: Receives files sent by devices on the network
  • No encryption: Only for use within a secure network

Why do we recommend it?

Pinkie is a bundle of useful tools and in many ways, it is very similar to TFTPD64. Both of these systems are free and run on Windows. The main tool at the heart of Pinkie is its Ping implementation, which tests connection conditions. Unlike TFTPD64, there is no TFTP client in this package. However, its TFTP server is respectable and fuss-free.

Who is it recommended for?

This TFTP server is a suitable tool for small networks. A little extra security in the tool would be nice. However, TFTP is an insecure protocol and that isn’t Pinkie’s fault.

Pros:

  • Two way: Send and receive files
  • Other functions: Subnet calculator, port scanner, and DNS server
  • Multi-threaded architecture: Fast transfers

Cons:

  • Windows only: Not available for macOS or Linux

The settings for the server can be altered through another tabbed window that can be called up from the top menu. It will overlay the server, so you don’t need to turn it off to access the configuration system. This tool is straightforward and easy to use.

5. SolarWinds TFTP Server

solarwinds-tftp-server

The TFTP Server software offered by SolarWinds is a 100% free version that runs on Windows only. It is not an expiring trial. It offers basic functionality such as IP-range lockdown and can transfer files up to 4GB in size. It runs as a Windows service which makes it easier to manage with native Windows tools.

Key Features:

  • Firmware distribution: Use within a network
  • Large files: Although TFTP is usually for small file movements
  • Configuration backup: Move configuration images to archive and back again
  • Concurrent operations: Manage transfers to and from multiple devices simultaneously
  • Reliable: Provided by a reputable brand

Why do we recommend it?

SolarWinds TFTP server is a lightweight file transfer utility, which is exactly what a TFTP server should be. This tool is a fuss-free solution and it is free to use. The program runs on Windows and Windows Server and it can be used to manage the movement of files of u to 4 GB in size, which is large for a TFTP system.

Who is it recommended for?

TFTP lacks security measures so its deployment should be used with caution. Traditionally TFTP is used to move network device images into storage and back again and this is a good use for the SolarWinds system. However, file protection needs to be considered even on a private network.

Pros:

  • Maximum file size: 4 GB limit is a large allowance per file
  • Constant availability: Run continuously to receive scheduled periodic transfers
  • Lightweight tool: Like all TFTP systems, this tool has no encryption
  • Local use: TFTP is only for use within secure networks
  • Network devices: The server receives files from switches and routers

Cons:

  • Made for Windows: Doesn’t run on macOS or Linux

If you only need a TFTP server, then this SolarWinds tool is very attractive. However, it is likely that you need many network monitoring and management tools and so you should also look at the Engineer’s Toolset. That package has more than 60 useful tools and it includes the TFTP server.

You can also take a look at the Small Business Network Management Bundle. That package adds on the Kiwi Syslog Server, Kiwi CatTools, and the Network Topology Mapper to the Engineer’s Toolset.

The best Free Linux TFTP servers

There are a variety of TFTP servers available for most Linux distributions. A popular one is the Advanced TFTP server that comes in a package named atftpd. The ‘d’ at the end of many Linux packages stands for daemon, which is a Unix-like term for an application that runs in the background. A Linux daemon is akin to a Windows service.

The ATFTP server supports multicast and is multithreaded which makes it a little more flexible to deploy in non-standard network installations. Use apt-get or yum to install it, depending on your Linux distribution.

1. atftpd

$ sudo apt-get install atftpd
Reading package lists... Done
Building dependency tree
Reading state information... Done
The following NEW packages will be installed:
 atftpd

Key Features:

  • Easy to install: This is a package in Linux
  • Free to use: Not a free trial
  • Server: Receives files from other devices

Why do we recommend it?

The atftpd system is a typical command line system that busy network administrators will enjoy. This is a “set it and forget it” utility for receiving files over TFTP and has very few features – not even a GUI interface.

You’ll find the sparse configuration file for atftpd in `/etc/default/atftpd. Set up some quick options such as what ports to listen on, and whether to run as a daemon or via inet.d, and you’re ready to go.

$catatftpd
USE_INETD=true
OPTIONS="--tftpd-timeout300--retry-timeout5--mcast-port1758--mcast-addr239.239.239.0-255--mcast-ttl1--maxthread100--verbose=5/srv/tftp"

You’ll need a TFTP client. There are many, but the atftp client is a quick and easy command line solution. To install it, use apt-get install atftp. Then connect and upload a file:

$ atftp 192.168.2.146
tftp> put emptyfile
tftp> quit

We can see the emptyfile has been uploaded to the path specified in the config file /srv/tftp

$ ls -l /srv/tftp
-rw-rw-r--1 jdw jdw 0 Nov 510:44 emptyfile

Who is it recommended for?

Network administrators with little time to fiddle with system utilities will appreciate the no-nonsense format of atftpd. There is also an associated free TFTP client available.

Pros:

  • Low impact: small resource footprint
  • Not encrypted: Only for use on secure networks
  • Run as a daemon: Set it to run continuously

Cons:

  • No GUI: Only available as a command line tool for Linux

2. tftpd-hpa

Another popular TFTP server for Linux is tftpd-hpa. Since the TFTP protocol is so simple, there are no really obvious advantages to choosing one TFTP server over another. However, due to dependencies and documentation deficiencies, sometimes one server will work better than another. If you’re unable to get atftpd working, give tftpd-hpa a try.

Key Features:

  • TFTP option: An alternative to atftpd
  • Small footprint: Doesn’t use many system resources
  • Run continuously: A demon for receiving small files

Why do we recommend it?

The free tftpd-hpa is almost identical to atftpd. It would be difficult to recommend one over the other, so both of these command line TFTP servers for Linux are included in this list.

$ sudo apt-get install tftpd-hpa
Reading package lists... Done
Building dependency tree
Reading state information... Done
The following package was automatically installed and is no longer required:
 xinetd
Use 'sudo apt autoremove'to remove it.
Suggested packages:
 pxelinux
The following NEW packages will be installed:
 tftpd-hpa

You’ll find the configuration file in /etc/default/tftpd-hpa:

$ cat /etc/default/tftpd-hpa
 #/etc/default/tftpd-hpa
TFTP_USERNAME="tftp"
TFTP_DIRECTORY="/var/lib/tftpboot"
TFTP_ADDRESS=":69"
TFTP_OPTIONS="--secure"

Modify the settings as desired, then startup the server using sudo service tftpd-hpa restart.

Who is it recommended for?

This TFTP server doesn’t have an associated TFTP client. So, that probably puts this tool in second place behind atftpd. However, if you are having trouble with that other recommended free TFTP server for Linux, try this one.

Pros:

  • Encryption-free: Follows the TFTP specification and doesn’t manage encryption
  • Limited use: Only for use on a secure private network
  • Command line tool: No GUI interface

Cons:

  • Not user-friendly: The command line system will only appeal to system administrators

The best macOS TFTP server

1. macOS TFTP server

macOS has a built-in TFTP server that won’t be loaded by default. The easiest way to get it running is to simply type:

sudo launchctl load -F /System/Library/LaunchDaemons/tftp.plist

Then, provide your password when prompted. You can use something like netstat to confirm it is running:

$ netstat -n | grep *.69
 udp4 0 .69 .*
 udp6 0 .69 .*

The TFTP server is now running on port 69 waiting for connections. You can use any TFTP client to connect to the server and upload or download files. To shut down the TFTP server, simply use the unload command:

sudo launchctl unload -F /System/Library/LaunchDaemons/tftp.plist

Key Features:

  • Made for Macs: Only available for macOS
  • Already on your Mac: You just have to activate it
  • Free forever: Not a free trial

Why do we recommend it?

The macOS TFTP server is built into the macOS operating system. It doesn’t have a GUI, so you need to open a Terminal window to launch it. This is a no-frill receiver of files through the TFTP system.

Who is it recommended for?

Network administrators that use a Mac for managing the system will turn to this command line tool as a first choice.

Pros:

  • A rare tool: There aren’t many TFTP programs available for macOS
  • Command line: No GUI interface
  • Low impact: Doesn’t use many system resources

Cons:

  • Not for end users: This is a technician tool

Final words

Although TFTP does not incorporate any security procedures, this lack of security is not unique among networking administration systems. DHCP and the widely implemented SNMPv2 do not include security measures. Make sure you only implement TFTP on a secured private network.

TFTP Server Software FAQs

How to set up DHCP for TFTP servers list

In Linux, use the following command structure to set up a list of TFTP servers for DHCP:

config system dhcp server edit <server ID> set tftp-server <hostname/IP address> <hostname/IP address> next end

Just list the IP addresses of your TFTP servers separated by spaces.

How to find my TFTP server IP{ address

On Windows, in a command prompt window, issue the command:

netstat -an|more

On Linux, the command is:

netstat -an|grep 69

TFTP uses UDP port 69, so look for an entry in the results list that uses that port in order to identify the IP address of your TFTP server. The relevant line in the results list will be

udp <IP address>:69

How do I copy my router settings to a TFTP server?

Make sure that your TFTP server is running then connect to the device through SSH.

  1. Issue the command copy running-config tftp
  2. Enter the IP address of your TFTP server when prompted.
  3. Enter a file name where the configuration will be saved when prompted.

The extract will take place.

Why does my Linux system fail to network boot with TFTP errors?

A failure for Linux to load could be due to the kernel in the netboot image being incompatible with the kernel module packages due to a patch. Another reason could be insufficient base memory making the install process hang indefinitely or fall over.

Best Free TFTP Servers for Windows

A good TFTP server should be part of every admin’s toolkit.

We’ve rounded up some of the Best Free TFTP server applications we could find and compared them all below.

But first some basics:

What is TFTP?

TFTP, or Trivial File Transfer Protocol, is a simple and basic file transfer protocol. It’s particularly useful for transferring small files and is characterized by its non-extensible design.

Technical Features of TFTP

TFTP operates using UDP (User Datagram Protocol), making it a connection-less protocol with no error checking—hence its descriptor, “trivial.” It is most effective when used over a Local Area Network (LAN), rather than a Wide Area Network (WAN) or the Internet.

Applications in Network Administration

For network administrators, TFTP serves as a vital tool for specific tasks such as backing up router and switch configuration files, or distributing operating system upgrade files. It is also commonly used for serving PXE boot files for network-based workstation setup or thin-client installations.

Variety of TFTP Servers

There is a wide array of TFTP server options available, each with their own set of features. Some offer just the basic functionalities, while others come with advanced features like security enhancements.

Selecting a TFTP Server

Choosing the right TFTP server is essential for every network administrator’s toolkit. Many free TFTP server applications are available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

TFTP Basics

What is TFTP?

TFTP, or Trivial File Transfer Protocol, is a simplified file transfer protocol designed for transferring small files. Notably, it lacks security authentication features.

Technical Specifications

The protocol operates over UDP (User Datagram Protocol), which doesn’t include error checking functionalities present in TCP (Transmission Control Protocol). Consequently, it is best utilized for transferring small files within Local Area Networks (LANs) as opposed to larger networks or the Internet.

Applications in Network Management

For network administrators, TFTP is invaluable for specific tasks such as backing up configuration files for routers and switches. It’s also commonly used for distributing PXE boot files for thin-client systems or network-based workstation installations.

Variety in TFTP Server Options

There is a plethora of TFTP servers available on the market, each with different features. Some are very basic, while others incorporate advanced features, including security measures.

The best Syslog Servers:

Our methodology for selecting TFTP servers for Windows

We reviewed various TFTP servers and analyzed the options based on the following criteria:

  • Support for Windows environment
  • Ease of use and deployment
  • Ability to support access controls and granular file transfer options
  • A facility to analyze network performance over time
  • Graphical interpretation of data, such as charts and graphs
  • A free trial period, a demo, or a money-back guarantee for no-risk assessment
  • A good price that reflects value for money when compared to the functions offered

1. TFTPD32 from Philippe Jounin

TFTPD32 from Philippe Jounin

TFTPD32 has become the go-to TFTP server for many admins ever since Cisco and 3Com stopped providing TFTP software years ago.

Why do we recommend it?

TFTPD32 operates on 32-bit computers and there is version for the 64-bit architecture, called TFTPD64. This is a simple little tool for Windows that provides a TFTP server, a TFTP client, a DHCP server, and a log viewer with an option for Sylog viewing. This is a fairly old utility but TFTP itself is very old and there hasn’t been any need to update the tool.

TFTPD32 is free open source and includes a number of useful additional server features like Syslog, SNTP, DHCP, and DNS. And don’t let the name fool you – there’s a 64-bit version available for newer O/Ses too, called TFTPD64.

The TFTP server component is multithreaded to support multiple uploads at once, and has some security features, as well as interface filtering.

Who is it recommended for?

This free tool is handy to have just in case. It is likely to appeal to the managers of small networks who have no budget for system management tools and just don’t need the complexity of a full network configuration management suite.

Pros:

  • Open-source tool, completely transparent
  • Has a simple interface that gets the job done and is easy to navigate
  • Offers a host of configurable options
  • Can track file transfers via log, or visually in real-time as they come in

Cons:

  • More complicated option has options for DNS, DHCP, and timeclock servers
  • Has a higher learning curve than other options

2. SolarWinds TFTP Server

SolarWinds offers a range of free tools that complement their Orion suite of network management products, which we’ve recently reviewed. Their Free TFTP Server has been very popular with admins thanks to its flexibility and ease of use.

Why do we recommend it?

SolarWinds TFTP Server is a good choice for network managers who want to transfer network device configuration images to a central library. The tool has specific routines built into it for such a task and it also has security features that are not usually encountered in TFTP systems.

The server can run as a Windows service and includes the ability to transfer large 4 GB files. It also runs as a multi-threaded program, allowing uploads from multiple network devices simultaneously.

On the security side of things, you can authorize specific IP addresses or ranges of IP addresses for transfers – helping to place some control around what is otherwise an unsecured service.

Who is it recommended for?

This is a useful tool for network managers to use within the network. TFTP shouldn’t be used in any environment that isn’t already secured, such as for internet transfers. The tool is free and so is worth downloading just to have on hand. Buyers of a network configuration manager will probably get a TFTP server built into that system and so wouldn’t need this tool.

Pros:

  • Completely free
  • Simple interface, no clutter, fluff, or advertisements
  • Available as a Windows service, allowing tasks to be scheduled
  • Can authorize single IP addresses, or an entire range
  • Lightweight install uses minimal resources

Cons:

  • Like all TFTP servers, you will still need technical experience to set the service up properly

In Summary

All of these tools should provide the basic functionality that most admins need in a TFTP server – they just go about it in different ways. Install your TFTP server today, and rest easy knowing that you have a way to back-up critical configuration files.

Free TFTP Servers FAQs

How does a TFTP server work?

A TFTP server works by listening on a specified port for incoming TFTP requests. When a client sends a request to the server, the server responds by either sending or receiving a file.

What are the benefits of using a TFTP server for Windows?

The benefits of using a TFTP server for Windows include the ability to transfer files quickly and easily over a network, the ability to automate file transfers, and the ability to easily manage large numbers of files.

What types of files can be transferred using a TFTP server?

A TFTP server can transfer any type of file, including firmware updates, configuration files, and software packages.

Can a TFTP server be used for backup and restore purposes?

Yes, a TFTP server can be used for backup and restore purposes. It allows users to easily transfer files between computers, which can be useful for backing up important data and restoring it if necessary.

What security measures should be taken when using a TFTP server?

Since TFTP does not provide any authentication or encryption, it is recommended to use a VPN or SSH tunnel to secure the connection between the TFTP server and client. Additionally, access to the TFTP server should be restricted to authorized users only.

What is the maximum file size that can be transferred using TFTP?

The maximum file size that can be transferred using TFTP is 32 MB.

Can a TFTP server be used for large-scale file transfers?

While a TFTP server can be used for large-scale file transfers, it is not recommended for transferring large files or large numbers of files due to its limited bandwidth and lack of error correction mechanisms. For large-scale file transfers, it is better to use a more robust protocol such as FTP, SFTP, or SCP.

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Make file transmission in local network easy with TFPT servers

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Key notes

  • Transferring files on a larger scale has become easier than ever, all thanks to TFTP servers.
  • A TFTP server has a small memory footprint, making it easy to install and implement.
  • These TFTP servers work mainly on all Windows versions, including Windows Server configurations.
Best Windows 10 TFTP servers to download

Are you looking for TFTP Server to transfer configuration files, system images, and OS firmware updates on a larger scale? Your search ends here. 

There are a lot of options available, which makes it challenging to choose the one for you. Therefore, we have analyzed some of the best Windows 10 TFTP servers to download.

What are the advantages of using TFTP servers?

  • It is a fast transmission method with low traffic overheads.
  • Can work in a virtual environment.
  • Transfers files quickly within a local network.
  • Helps boot PCs without a disk.
  • Transfers files without authentication, which makes transferring data faster.
  • It uses User Datagram Protocol to share files between the client and server.
  • Can boot a computer remotely without any hassle.

Best free TFTP servers to download on Windows 10

SolarWinds TFTP – comes with high scalability

One of the most robust and straightforward TFTP servers, SolarWinds is an excellent option to download and upload executable images, push OS and firmware updates, and backup network device configuration files.

This TFTP server for Windows 10 has advanced security settings to ensure complete control. In addition, it comes with multi-thread support and can quickly transfer files up to 4 GB.

If we talk about the interface of this TFTP server, it has a simple layout with a clean and minimalist interface.

Let’s look at the critical features of SolarWinds TFTP:

  • Allows you to download and upload images simultaneously from different network devices
  • It enables you to authorize a range of IPs or an IP address
  • Helps you keep your firewalls, switches, and routers up to date, configured, and backed up
  • Comes with an IP restriction feature to avoid unauthorized access requests

⇒ Get SolarWinds TFTP

TFTPD64/32 Server – highly compatible

Another lightweight TFTP server for Windows, TFTPD64/32, is an open-source IPV6-compatible app with TFTP, SNTP, DNS, DHCP, and Syslog servers.

The application comes in two variants, 64-bit and 32-bit. It has extensive features, including security tuning, early acknowledgments, progress bars, directory facility, interface filtering, etc. 

This TFTP server and client are compatible with TFTP option support such as size, timeout, and block size. With all the extensive features available, this application can deliver maximum performance when transferring files.

Let’s look at some of the key features:

  • Collects records on configured devices and displays to users
  • Comes with a DHCP server, which provides unlimited static or automatic IP address assignment
  • Easily transfers messages and backup Syslog
  • Allows you to keep track of file transfers with the help of logs

Get TFTPD64

Spiceworks TFTP server – best for IT professionals

Spiceworks is a visually pleasing network administration app with a TFTP server for Windows 10. This app keeps device settings up to date and ensures that all the network configurations are standard across every network device in an organization.

With its backup and restore feature, one can quickly restore important files if things go awry. In addition, this TFTP server comes with a side-by-side comparison view to check the changes made in configuration files.

One of the best features of this open-source TFTP server is that it excels in saving config files and loading firmware into network devices.

Let’s look at the key features of Spiceworks TFTP server:

  • Ensures all devices can push out updates and are updated
  • All available devices are listed, which makes managing them easy
  • Can push firmware updates to all compatible devices swiftly
  • Keeps track of network activity in real-time and notifies if any change exists

Get Spiceworks

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haneWIN TFTP server – robust & reliable

haneWin TFTP server, based on RFC 1350, is a shareware available to download for Windows 10. With multi-threaded architecture, it is one of the best TFTP servers for Windows, as it is highly reliable and delivers high performance.

This TFTP server installer file comes in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions. With the pipe option, the received data can be directly fed to the other applications, and the output of an app can be transmitted to a file on the server.

It can implement access control to the server depending on the IP address, server directories, and operation requested for data security. In addition, this free TFTP server can run as a service and doesn’t require a user to log on.

Let’s look at the critical features of haneWin TFTP server:

  • Comes with support for Intel/PXE style multicast operation
  • Has a control panel applet to monitor and configure with ease
  • Can run on the command line, making it useful for scripting
  • Has a DHCP server

Get haneWin TFTP

WinAgents TFTP – designed for admins

A multi-threaded TFTP server, WinAgents TFTP is designed to function 24*7 as a background service.

It has various features such as server port ranges, size, timeout changes, and block number rollover for large files.

WinAgents TFTP server can transmit files using TFTP protocol through firewalls, and routers, where Network Address Translation mode is active.

With high-performance architecture, remote server administration, and a reliable cache system, it is one of the most scalable TFTP servers to download on Windows 10.

The interface of this TFPT server is simple. This tool is free for 30 days and can run on 32-bit and 64-bit systems.

Let’s look at the critical features of WinAgents TFTP:

  • Allows using UDP 69 port for transmitting files
  • Can create stock copies of flash images, device settings, and config files
  • Configures UDP port for connections to send files via firewalls
  • Allows managing large intranets seamlessly

Get WinAgent TFTP

We hope you find an accessible TFTP server for Windows from the list presented in this guide. If you have any other free TFTP servers that you use, feel free to share them in the comments below.


Vladimir Popescu

Being an artist his entire life while also playing handball at a professional level, Vladimir has also developed a passion for all things computer-related.

With an innate fascination for research and analysis, and realizing many other people share his passion for this subject, he delved into writing Windows-related articles, so other people can also benefit from the acquired information.

When not writing kick-ass articles, Vladimir likes to spend his time doing Crossfit and creating art.


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