FTP (File Transfer Protocol) lets you upload and download files between your computer and hosting server.
FTP Credentials
Find your FTP details in cPanel or your welcome email:
- Host: ftp.yourdomain.com or your server IP
- Username: Your cPanel username
- Password: Your cPanel password
- Port: 21 (FTP) or 22 (SFTP)
Set Up FileZilla (Recommended)
Download and Install
- Download FileZilla from filezilla-project.org
- Install and open the application
Connect to Your Server
- Click File → Site Manager
- Click New Site
- Enter your connection details:
- Protocol: FTP or SFTP
- Host: ftp.yourdomain.com
- Port: 21 or 22
- Logon Type: Normal
- User: Your username
- Password: Your password
- Click Connect
FileZilla Interface
- Left Panel: Your local computer files
- Right Panel: Your hosting server files
- Top Bar: Quick connect options
- Bottom Panel: Transfer queue and log
Upload Files
- Navigate to the destination folder on the server (usually public_html)
- Navigate to the source folder on your computer
- Drag files from left to right
- Wait for transfer to complete
Download Files
- Navigate to the files on your server
- Navigate to the destination on your computer
- Drag files from right to left
Create FTP Accounts
Create separate FTP accounts for team members or developers:
- In cPanel, click FTP Accounts
- Enter username and password
- Set the directory (limit access to specific folders)
- Set quota if needed
- Click Create FTP Account
FTP vs SFTP
- FTP: Standard protocol, less secure
- SFTP: Encrypted connection, recommended for sensitive data
Use SFTP when available for better security.
Troubleshooting
Connection Refused
- Check your credentials
- Verify the hostname
- Ensure your IP isn't blocked
Timeout Errors
- Try passive mode in FileZilla settings
- Check firewall settings
Permission Denied
- Verify you have write permissions
- Check file/folder permissions in cPanel
Tags:#ftp#sftp#filezilla#file-transfer