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How to Transfer Files Between Your Local Machine and Windows VPS

PostedApril 9, 2025
UpdatedApril 9, 2025
ByServers9

Transferring files to and from your Windows VPS is essential—whether you’re uploading software, downloading reports, or backing up data. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to move files between your local computer and your remote Windows VPS.

This guide walks you through the most common and efficient file transfer methods.

🔹 Method 1: Using RDP Clipboard and Drag & Drop (Windows only)

When you connect to your VPS via Remote Desktop (RDP) from a Windows PC, file transfer is built-in.

✅ Steps:

  1. Connect to your VPS using Remote Desktop.
  2. On your local machine, simply drag and drop files into the VPS window.
  3. You can also use copy (Ctrl + C) and paste (Ctrl + V) between the two systems.

📝 This works for text, images, and most files—but large files can be slow or may fail.

🔹 Method 2: Map a Local Drive in RDP Settings

This method allows your VPS to see your local drive like an attached folder.

✅ Steps:

  1. Open Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc).
  2. Click Show Options > Local Resources > More…
  3. Check the box for your local drives (e.g., C:).
  4. Click OK, then connect to your VPS.
  5. Once logged in, go to This PC on the VPS—you’ll see your local drive listed (e.g., “C on [YourPC]”).
  6. Drag and drop files between local and remote drives.

💡 This is one of the most reliable and secure ways to transfer files via RDP.

🔹 Method 3: Using Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)

If RDP sharing is disabled or you’re on macOS/Linux, cloud storage can be an excellent workaround.

✅ Steps:

  1. Install Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive on both your local PC and Windows VPS.
  2. Upload the files from your local computer to the cloud folder.
  3. Download the files from the cloud folder on your VPS.

🔐 Make sure to log out or limit access when using shared folders on the VPS.

🔹 Method 4: Use FTP/SFTP (Advanced Option)

If you’re managing large file transfers or automation, setting up an FTP server on your VPS is a good solution.

✅ Steps (Basic FTP Setup):

  1. Install an FTP server like FileZilla Server on your Windows VPS.
  2. Configure a user account and shared folder.
  3. Open port 21 (for FTP) or port 22 (for SFTP) in your VPS firewall.
  4. Use an FTP client like FileZilla on your local machine to connect and transfer files.

⚠️ Make sure to secure FTP with SSL or use SFTP for encrypted transfers.

🔹 Method 5: Remote File Transfer via SSH (Linux or macOS Clients)

For Linux/macOS users with SSH access enabled on the VPS, you can use:

scp file.txt Administrator@your-vps-ip:C:\

Note: SSH is not enabled by default on Windows, so this requires additional setup.

🛠️ Troubleshooting Tips

  • File transfer not working? Make sure clipboard or drive sharing is enabled in RDP settings.
  • Access denied? Check file permissions on the VPS.
  • Connection interrupted? Consider zipping files before transfer to avoid partial uploads.

🔐 Security Tips

  • Avoid transferring sensitive files over public networks.
  • Always scan downloaded/uploaded files with antivirus.
  • Use encrypted methods (e.g., SFTP or cloud services with 2FA) for confidential data.

Whether you prefer the simplicity of drag-and-drop or the power of FTP, there’s a file transfer method for every user and situation. Pick the one that best fits your needs and security level, and you’ll be managing your VPS like a pro in no time.

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