FireFTP

For my webdesign needs, I was using Dreamweaver for almost 2 years. This software had good feature like syntax autocompletion (which is great when you are starting coding, and folder synchronization). But that software had one default, its synchronization feature was very slow, maybe due to the metadatas sent back and forth. I then discovered FireFTP and gave it a try.

FireFTP is Minimalist at a first glance

This addon can be downloaded at the Firefox addon repository and has a weekly download rate of 150 000 ! (I don't know if this figure counts the updates). To set it up is very simple. Go to the Tools menu and hit the item that also has an icon.Then click the dropdown box at the top left corner of your browser.

In the Main tab, you'll have to fill in the four fields of the panel and for most cases it'll be okay.

In the Connection tab, you will define the type of connection, the default is "use passive mode", because sometime, you local computer firewell configuration do not function if you are not in passive mode. You can even configure local and remote folder that will be displayed at connection, saving you navigation time. I won't cover the Advanced feature of FireFTP because I do not use them.

That's it, you are now ready to make your first connection with your remote server!

FireFTP : Configure default program for editing

The next important thing to do is to configure a text editor to use with the file. Right click on the window that lists the remote files, enter Add Programs...

Now you can see it is possible to associate a program based on file extension in fact, that means you can have more than text editor, you can have image editor as well.

I have associated any extension with Notepad++ (I use the portable edition of Firefox and Notepad++), that's ok, you don't have to be so brutal, but what I needed is a replacement of the Dreamweaver.

FireFTP : conclusion

I have raised my productivity with this Firefox incredible addon, it is fast, and reliable. Saving a file is instantaneous, in Dreamweaver it usually took 5 seconds minimum to make the connection. It is stale, I have experienced no breakdown since I use it. In those days when you spend most of your time on Internet, you'll really appreciate light and fast and reliable software, and FireFTP is definitely among the top list of best Firefox addons.

The few things I want to be improved : ability to auto refresh, UTF-8 support (if you know a way to configure this let me know !)