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How to Connect via FTP

By Elliot, BearHost·

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

  1. Download FileZilla from filezilla-project.org
  2. Install and open the application

Connect to Your Server

  1. Click FileSite Manager
  2. Click New Site
  3. 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
  4. 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

  1. Navigate to the destination folder on the server (usually public_html)
  2. Navigate to the source folder on your computer
  3. Drag files from left to right
  4. Wait for transfer to complete

Download Files

  1. Navigate to the files on your server
  2. Navigate to the destination on your computer
  3. Drag files from right to left

Create FTP Accounts

Create separate FTP accounts for team members or developers:

  1. In cPanel, click FTP Accounts
  2. Enter username and password
  3. Set the directory (limit access to specific folders)
  4. Set quota if needed
  5. 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