TFTP (Tftpd64) 4.74 for Windows: FAQ

TFTP 4.74, better known as Tftpd64, is a free TFTP server and client for Windows written by Philippe Jounin. Network engineers download TFTP for Windows to send firmware and configuration files to routers, switches, IP phones and other devices on a local network.

What is TFTP and why would I need it?

TFTP, the Trivial File Transfer Protocol, is a very simple way of moving files over a network. It has no user accounts, no folders to browse and no encryption, which sounds primitive, but that simplicity is exactly why devices use it: a router's boot loader, a switch or a VoIP phone can fetch a file over TFTP with a tiny amount of code. When you upgrade a device's firmware, restore a backup configuration or boot a computer over the network, the device often expects to find a TFTP server nearby. Tftpd64 turns a Windows PC into that server. You point it to a folder, and any device on the network can download files from it or upload to it. The program also includes other small services commonly needed in the same situations, such as a DHCP server that hands out addresses to devices booting from the network. For people who work with network equipment, it is one of the standard tools on the laptop.

How do I set it up?

1. Download it from the official Tftpd64 page.
2. Start the program and choose the folder that holds the files for the device.
3. Select the network interface connected to the device.
4. Allow the program through the Windows firewall on that network.
5. On the device, enter the PC's address as the TFTP server and the file name to fetch.

Is it secure?

The program itself is safe from the official page, but the protocol has no passwords and no encryption. Run the server only when you need it, on a trusted local network, and never expose it to the internet. Turn off the DHCP server when you are connected to an office network that already has one, or you may disrupt other devices.

What are the requirements?

A Windows PC with a network connection to the target device. The program is tiny, about 668 KB according to catalogue data.

Is it free?

Yes, Tftpd64 is free, open-source software. The author also publishes other projects on the same site.

Why does the device not receive the file?

Check that the file name matches exactly, including case, that the firewall allows the program and that the PC and device are on the same subnet. The program's log window shows each request, which helps to see whether the device reached the server at all.

What are the pros and cons?

• Pro: tiny and free.
• Pro: server, client and DHCP in one tool.
• Pro: clear log of requests.
• Con: no security in the protocol itself.
• Con: aimed at technical users.

What are the alternatives?

For secure transfers, our site lists WinSCP and FileZilla Server; for network analysis, Wireshark and Advanced IP Scanner.