What mode should I FTP files in?

[MaxDSP]

I use WS_FTP lite. What difference does it make whether I transfer the files in ASCII or Binary? Which one is faster?

 

[IcemanJer]

ASCII only sends plain text. You can use that if you're only uploading or downloading text files or HTMLs.
You'll need the binary file trasfer format to download/upload anything else.

 

[Beau]

I always transfer in binary, because ASCII can garble non-text files (executables, compiled files, etc). ASCII is used primarily for text files. I don't think there is a speed difference.

 

[mpitts]

There really isn't a speed difference. Like others have said, it depends on what type of file you are transfering. Does it have an option for Auto? That is just easiest.

 

[diskop]

Good rule of thumb for your site, binary for images, ascii for text based stuff.

 

[NikPreviousAcct]

Get SmartFTP
it's a better interface
it's more powerful
it's free

 

[notfred]

Send ASCII text files in ASCII mode. send Binry Files in Binary mode. I don't see how this is hard to figure out.

Also: I've never once in my life, with ANY FTP program, had "Auto" fail to work correctly.