Transfer Files from FTP to OneDrive

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Updated on: October 27, 2025
Time to read: 5 minutes

Not sure how to transfer files between OneDrive and an FTP server? This guide covers the easiest and safest ways to transfer data between the two platforms.

One of the most convenient options is using a third-party tool like CloudMounter, which lets you mount both OneDrive and FTP as local drives. Alternatively, you can manually download files from one platform to your computer and then upload them to the other. We’ll walk you through both methods below.

Migrate data from OneDrive to the FTP server on Windows

One way to move folders or files is by first downloading them to your PC and then uploading them to a remote server. This method is available only for Windows users, as Finder on macOS allows you to view and download FTP files but not upload them.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Head to the OneDrive website and log in to your Microsoft account.
  2. Click on “My Files” in the left sidebar and select the files or folders you want to download.
  3. Select Download from the top menu or right-click the file and choose Download. Then, save the files or folders to your local drive.
File saving to local disks on the OneDrive website
File downloading to local disc on the OneDrive website

Open File Explorer and connect to the FTP server by going to This PC > Add a network location, type the FTP address and log in.

Upload the files you just downloaded to your FTP server.

Note:  On macOS, you can only upload or edit these files using an FTP client.

Move FTP files to the OneDrive folder

To transfer files back from FTP to OneDrive folder, save them to your computer and then upload them to OneDrive. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Open your file manager to connect to the FTP server.
    •   If you’re on Windows, open File Explorer and go to This PC > Add a network location, type in the FTP address, and log in.
    •   If on macOS, open Finder and go to Go > Connect to Server (or ⌘K), enter the server address and your credentials.
  2. Select the FTP files you want to move and download them to your computer.
  3. On OneDrive, click on “+New & Upload” and select the files or folders you downloaded from the FTP server.
File selecting for uploading to OneDrive

4. The files or folders will begin uploading to OneDrive.

Upload to OneDrive automatically
Note:  As you can tell, this method isn’t the most convenient and can take a while. Plus, you’ll need enough space on your computer to hold all the files you download.

How to transfer from OneDrive to FTP with CloudMounter

Looking for an easier way to transfer files from OneDrive to FTP? CloudMounter is an all-in-one cloud storage manager that lets you mount FTP as a network drive, so you can move files with a simple drag and drop. Here’s how it works:

1. Download and install the app on macOS or Windows to get started.

2. Launch the software and select OneDrive and FTP in the Connections window.

The connection box of CloudMounter on macOS
Select both connections in CloudMounter on Windows

3. Enter your OneDrive and FTP account details in the setup fields.

4. Click on Mount to map your storage account as a network drive.

5. Once connected, both will show up in your file manager like regular local drives.

FTP server and OneDrive folder display on Finder
Appearing of your FTP and OneDrive in File Explorer

6. Now you can easily copy files between OneDrive and FTP, just like you would between regular folders in Finder or File Explorer.

10 core benefits of CloudMounter

Here are 10 benefits of using CloudMounter:

  • Compatible with various storage providers. Works with tons of storage options. CloudMounter connects to Dropbox, Google Drive, Amazon S3, and remote servers using WebDAV, SFTP, FTPS, and FTPES protocols.
  • Unified management and inter-storage transfer. CloudMounter lets you handle files from different cloud accounts right in your file manager, so you don’t have to juggle between apps or browser tabs.
  • Improved system performance. The app works right inside Finder or File Explorer, so you don’t need extra cloud apps eating up your RAM. It’s a clean, lightweight way to manage all your storage without slowing down your computer.
  • No local file duplication. CloudMounter lets you work with your online files without saving them to your computer, so you keep your hard drive free. It’s perfect if you’re low on storage or don’t want to sync everything.
  • Work offline on macOS. Easily work with your files even if you don’t have an active internet connection.
  • Multiple storage accounts support. CloudMounter makes teamwork easier by letting you connect and manage several cloud accounts at once, including both Personal and Business OneDrive.
  • Access your online files instantly, from anywhere. Skip the syncing and downloading and easily open, manage, and move files between different cloud accounts.
  • Advanced security and data privacy. The software uses AES 256-bit client-side encryption to keep your data safe, and only you can unlock it. All passwords and sensitive info are securely stored in macOS Keychain or Windows Credential Manager.
  • On-demand access saves local storage. Save local storage with on-demand access, which is great when handling large files like videos or 3D models.
  • Easy file sharing. You can share files instantly with an HTTP link right from the context menu. There’s no need to open the OneDrive site or app.
Note:  Make sure your hard drive has enough space to store a temporary copy of files from your cloud or server.

Conclusion

There are several ways to move files between an FTP remote server and OneDrive. The manual method involves downloading files from one platform to your computer and then uploading them to the other, which can take time and requires enough free storage space.

Alternatively, you can use a third-party tool like CloudMounter to mount both the FTP server and OneDrive as local drives, allowing you to move files between them just like you would between regular folders on your computer.