FTP vs WebDAV: What's the Difference and Which Should You Use?

Choose WebDAV over HTTPS when you want document-style remote folder access through a web-compatible connection. Choose a secure FTP-family option such as SFTP or FTPS when your server and client are built around traditional file transfer. Do not expose plain FTP to the public internet for sensitive files.

If you've connected to a NAS, file server, or remote storage system, you may have encountered FTP and WebDAV.

While both allow users to access and transfer files, they were designed for different purposes and offer different advantages.

Understanding how they work can help you choose the right solution for your storage environment.

What Is FTP?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol.

It was introduced in the early days of the internet and remains one of the most widely supported file transfer technologies.

FTP allows users to:

• Upload files
• Download files
• Move files between systems
• Access remote servers

Because of its age and widespread support, FTP is available on virtually every operating system.

What Is WebDAV?

WebDAV stands for Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning.

It extends the standard HTTP protocol used by websites.

WebDAV allows users to:

• Access remote files
• Edit files remotely
• Create folders
• Delete files
• Manage storage through familiar web technologies

Many cloud storage and network storage solutions support WebDAV.

How FTP Works

FTP uses a client-server model.

A user connects to a server using:

• Server address
• Username
• Password

Once connected, files can be uploaded and downloaded.

FTP remains popular because it is:

• Mature
• Fast
• Widely supported

However, traditional FTP was designed long before modern security expectations.

How WebDAV Works

WebDAV builds on HTTP and HTTPS.

Instead of using a dedicated file transfer protocol, it uses technologies already familiar to web servers.

This approach provides advantages such as:

• Easier firewall compatibility
• Simpler remote access
• Better integration with modern applications

Many users find WebDAV easier to configure than FTP.

Security Comparison

Security is one of the most important considerations.

Plain FTP

Standard FTP does not encrypt:

• Usernames
• Passwords
• File contents

This makes plain FTP a poor choice for sensitive internet-facing access. FTPS adds TLS to FTP; SFTP is a different protocol that runs over SSH. Support varies, so check both the server and the client rather than treating every “FTP” option as equivalent.

WebDAV

WebDAV often operates over HTTPS.

Benefits include:

• Encrypted connections
• Protected credentials
• Secure file transfers

HTTPS can protect the connection in transit when it is configured and validated correctly. That does not replace strong credentials, server updates, appropriate permissions, or a safe remote-access design.

Ease of Use

FTP

FTP clients are widely available.

Popular examples include:

• FileZilla
• Cyberduck
• WinSCP

However, users often need to configure:

• Ports
• Connection settings
• Firewall rules

WebDAV

WebDAV often feels more natural because it behaves similarly to browsing folders.

Many operating systems can mount WebDAV storage directly.

This creates a more familiar user experience.

Compatibility

FTP Compatibility

FTP is supported by:

• Windows
• macOS
• Linux
• NAS devices
• Hosting providers

It remains one of the most universally supported protocols available.

WebDAV Compatibility

WebDAV is also widely supported, including:

• Windows
• macOS
• iOS
• Android
• NAS systems
• Cloud storage providers

Compatibility is generally excellent across modern platforms.

Performance Comparison

Performance depends on:

• Network speed
• Server configuration
• File size
• Storage hardware

In many real-world situations, users may not notice a significant difference between FTP and WebDAV.

However:

• FTP is often optimized for raw file transfer.
• WebDAV emphasizes file management and accessibility.

Remote File Management

One area where WebDAV often shines is file management.

Users can:

• Browse folders
• Rename files
• Create directories
• Edit content

using interfaces that feel similar to local storage.

This can make WebDAV more convenient for ongoing file management tasks.

NAS and Home Server Usage

Many NAS systems support both FTP and WebDAV.

Examples include:

• Synology NAS
• QNAP NAS
• UGREEN NAS
• TrueNAS systems

The best choice often depends on:

• Security requirements
• Remote access needs
• Device compatibility

For a NAS on a trusted local network, either protocol may work if the NAS and client support it. For remote access, prefer a secure configuration and consider the NAS vendor's supported VPN or remote-access guidance before opening ports. A local Mac may already use SMB while a phone uses WebDAV, SFTP, or another supported client connection.

NAS decision checklist

Before enabling a service, verify the NAS account permissions, restrict access to the folders required, use a unique password, install NAS updates, and test with non-sensitive files.

When FTP Makes More Sense

FTP may be a better choice if:

• Maximum compatibility is required.
• Legacy systems are involved.
• Large file transfers are the primary goal.
• Existing workflows already rely on FTP infrastructure.

When WebDAV Makes More Sense

WebDAV may be a better choice if:

• Secure remote access is important.
• Files need to be managed frequently.
• Simpler firewall compatibility is desired.
• Integration with modern applications is needed.

Managing FTP and WebDAV Connections

As users connect to more storage locations, organization becomes increasingly important.

A modern file manager can help centralize access to:

• Local storage
• Cloud storage
• FTP servers
• WebDAV servers
• Network storage

AirDisk can connect to supported FTP and WebDAV storage in addition to its separate local Wi-Fi browser-transfer workflow. The protection of a remote connection depends on the protocol, server, certificate, credentials, and network configuration you choose.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose FTP if you:

• Need broad compatibility
• Work with older systems
• Focus primarily on file transfers

Choose WebDAV if you:

• Prioritize security
• Need easier remote access
• Manage files frequently
• Use modern storage environments

Final Thoughts

FTP and WebDAV are both powerful tools for accessing and transferring files.

FTP remains a reliable choice for compatibility and traditional file transfer workflows.

WebDAV offers a more modern approach with stronger security options and easier file management capabilities.

For many modern remote-folder workflows, WebDAV over HTTPS is a practical starting point. Secure FTP-family options remain valuable where server compatibility or traditional upload/download tooling matters. For a currently published phone workflow, continue with accessing NAS files from iPhone.