Copying data from a Windows PC to Linux---or in the other direction---can seem intimidating at first. After all, information technology's something that seems similar information technology should be simple, simply turns out to be difficult.

In truth, sharing files from Windows to Linux is piece of cake, only just if you know how to do it. Ready to notice out? Hither's everything yous need to know almost how to transfer files from Windows to Linux and dorsum over again.

4 Means to Transfer Files From Windows to Linux

If you want to move data between Windows and Linux operating systems, it's easier than you recollect. We've compiled four ways for you to do this:

  1. Deeply copy files via SSH
  2. Windows to Linux file transfer with FTP
  3. Share data using sync software
  4. Use shared folders in your Linux virtual car

With each of these methods y'all'll be able to easily (and in some cases, effortlessly) move files between operating systems.

Let'south look at them in turn and find out which 1 suits you best.

i. Copy Files Between Windows and Linux via SSH

With SSH enabled on your Linux device, you can send data via the command line from one computer to some other. For this to piece of work, however, you will need to set an SSH server on your Linux auto.

Kickoff past opening a final and updating and upgrading the Os.

          sudo apt update

Once consummate, install the SSH server. The OpenSSH server is a good option.

          sudo apt install openssh-server

Wait while it installs. To bank check at any time if the OpenSSH server is running, use

          sudo service ssh status

To transfer data from Windows, employ an SSH client like PuTTY. This needs the PSCP (secure re-create client) tool downloading to your Windows organization to run alongside PuTTY. Notice both on the PuTTY homepage.

Note that while PuTTY will need installing, PSCP won't. Instead, save the downloaded pscp.exe file in the root of the Windows C:\ bulldoze or else ready up as an environment variable. You'll besides need to confirm the IP accost of the Linux device. Check in the Linux final with

          hostname -I

With a connectedness established, you can transfer a file from Windows to Linux like this:

          c:\pscp c:
ome\path\to\a\file.txt user@remoteIP:\home\user
ome\path
ewname.txt

You lot'll be prompted for your password for the Linux computer before the transfer commences.

Desire to copy information from Linux to Windows in the same SSH session? This control will download the specified file to the current directory:

          c:\pscp user@remoteIP:\home\user
ome\file.txt .

Note the alone catamenia at the end---include this or the transfer will non work.

2. How to Transfer Files From Linux to Windows Using FTP

A file transfer protocol (FTP) application with SSH back up can besides be used. Transferring files via SFTP in a mouse driven user interface is arguably easier than relying on typed commands.

Again, an SSH server must be running on the Linux machine before you first. You should also ensure you accept installed an FTP app on Windows similar FileZilla, which has SFTP support.

To use this method, run FileZilla, and then:

  1. Open File > Site Manager
  2. Create a New Site
  3. Ready the Protocol to SFTP
  4. Add together the target IP address in Host
  5. Specify a username and password
  6. Prepare the Logon Type to Normal
  7. Click Connect when set up
Share files between Linux and Windows using FTP

You lot can so employ the FTP app to move files from Windows to Linux and back using drag and drop.

Another option yous should consider is a file syncing programme. These are typically cantankerous-platform and utilize an encrypted primal to manage the connexion between devices.

All you need to do is install the app, nominate a sync binder, then create the key. Fix this upward on the second PC and your data will then sync. Ii practiced options are available for this:

  1. Resilio Sync: formerly known equally BitTorrent Sync, Resilio is available on almost whatever platform you tin call up of. There is a paid version, but the costless option is plenty for syncing two devices
  2. SyncThing: for Linux, Windows, macOS, and Android, this Resilio Sync alternative offers a similar feature without the paid component

iv. How to Transfer Files from Windows to a Linux Virtual Car

Instead of running a separate PC, information technology's common to run Linux or Windows in a virtual machine (VM). Merely is there are manner to transfer files between Windows and Linux when one is installed in a VM?

Fortunately, yes. With VirtualBox you tin can create a virtual shared directory for information syncing.

If you're running Windows in a VM on Linux (or vice versa), VirtualBox is already prepare for sharing. Ensure you have the Invitee Additions installed on your virtual machine before proceeding.

In the VirtualBox manager, select the VM, then:

  1. Choose Start > Headless Outset (or with the VM running, Devices > Shared Folders)
    Enable a headless start for your VM
  2. Once running, right-click the VM and select Settings > Shared Folders
  3. Select Automobile Folders
  4. Click the + symbol on the correct (or right-click and select Add Shared Folder)
  5. Browse the Binder Path and find the directory you want to utilize
  6. Set a name (if necessary) then OK
    Share files between Windows and Linux in a virtual machine
  7. Use the Automobile-mount checkbox to ensure the share is available whenever the VM runs
  8. Click OK over again to ostend and go out

When you reboot the VM, the share will exist ready to bandy data between the host PC and guest operating organization.

There is some other option for sharing files betwixt Windows and Linux PCs. However, creating a shared file on one or both systems and then accessing it across a network is unreliable at all-time.

Sharing Files Betwixt Windows and Linux Is Easy

Whether you're new to Linux, or you find Windows unfamiliar, sharing data between them is easier than yous think.

Nosotros've looked at several methods. Nosotros'd recommend y'all try all of them and work out which ane you lot're well-nigh comfy with.

If you're syncing data to Linux, in that location'southward a good chance you're switching from Windows. Don't worry – information technology'due south easier than y'all remember.

Switch from Windows to Linux and Get Upwardly and Running in Minutes

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About The Writer

Christian Cawley (1586 Manufactures Published)

Deputy Editor for Security, Linux, DIY, Programming, and Tech Explained, and Actually Useful Podcast producer, with extensive experience in desktop and software back up. A contributor to Linux Format mag, Christian is a Raspberry Pi tinkerer, Lego lover and retro gaming fan.

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