Why I Built Total Connect: A Modern Open-Source FileZilla & Total Commander Alternative in Go

Description and use

Total Connect is an open‑source file manager that combines TUI, web, and CLI interfaces, uses rclone for 50+ cloud providers, and removes the need for paid licenses while securing credentials.

Problem

FileZilla and Total Commander lack support for modern cloud protocols, headless server/file management, and secure credential handling.

Outcome

Total Connect eliminates the need for paid cloud protocol support, simplifies headless file management, and secures credentials while providing a modern, multi‑interface experience.

Workflow

• 1. Install the static binary for Linux, macOS, or Windows.
• 2. Launch Total Connect via TUI, web, or CLI.
• 3. Use the in‑app "+ Add Connection" wizard to configure FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, S3, Mega, or Google Drive.
• 4. Navigate files with dual‑pane TUI or touch‑friendly web UI.
• 5. Transfer files using rclone‑powered atomic operations.
• 6. Manage headless operations through the scriptable CLI.

Evidence

FileZilla paywalls essential cloud protocols (S3, Google Drive, OneDrive) behind a commercial Pro license.

Source

To solve this, I built Total Connect — a modern, unified, open-source file manager and transfer ecosystem written in Go, powered natively by rclone.

Source

Tri-Interface Architecture (TUI + Web + CLI): Interactive Terminal UI, Headless Web Daemon, Scriptable CLI.

Source