How to Use FTP to Manage Website Files
How to Use FTP to Manage Website Files
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) allows you to upload, download, and manage files on your web server directly from your computer. It’s an essential tool for website management, especially for tasks that can’t be done through a CMS or control panel.
FTP vs SFTP vs FTPS
| Protocol | Encryption | Port | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| FTP | None | 21 | Avoid — data sent in plain text |
| FTPS | SSL/TLS | 990 | Good — encrypted FTP |
| SFTP | SSH | 22 | Best — most secure, widely supported |
Always use SFTP or FTPS to protect your login credentials and file transfers.
Popular FTP Clients
| Client | Platform | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| FileZilla | Windows, Mac, Linux | Free |
| WinSCP | Windows | Free |
| Cyberduck | Windows, Mac | Free |
| Transmit | Mac | Paid |
Connecting to Your Server
You’ll need these credentials from your hosting provider (available in your 10Corp control panel or hosting welcome email):
- Host: Your domain name or server IP (e.g.,
ftp.yourdomain.comor192.168.1.1) - Username: Your FTP/SFTP username
- Password: Your FTP/SFTP password
- Port: 22 for SFTP, 21 for FTP, 990 for FTPS
In FileZilla:
- Open FileZilla.
- Go to File → Site Manager → New Site.
- Enter the host, port, protocol (SFTP), and credentials.
- Click Connect.
Understanding the File Structure
Once connected, you’ll see two panels:
- Left panel: Your local computer files.
- Right panel: Your server files.
Key server directories:
public_htmlorwww— Your website’s root directory. Files here are publicly accessible.logs— Server access and error logs.mail— Email account files.ssl— SSL certificate files.
Common FTP Tasks
Uploading Files:
- Navigate to the target directory on the server (right panel).
- Navigate to the source directory on your computer (left panel).
- Drag files from left to right, or right-click and select Upload.
Downloading Files: Drag files from the server (right) to your computer (left).
Editing Files: Right-click a file on the server → View/Edit. The file opens in your default text editor. Save changes and FileZilla will prompt you to re-upload.
Setting File Permissions: Right-click a file or folder → File Permissions. Set the numeric value:
- Files:
644(owner read/write, others read) - Directories:
755(owner full, others read/execute) - Sensitive configs:
400or440
Troubleshooting
- Connection refused: Verify the host, port, and protocol. Check if FTP is enabled in your hosting panel.
- Authentication failed: Double-check username and password. Reset your FTP password if needed.
- Timeout errors: Try passive mode — in FileZilla, go to Edit → Settings → Connection → FTP → Passive.
- Permission denied: Your FTP user may not have write access to the target directory.
Security Tips
- Use SFTP instead of plain FTP.
- Change FTP passwords regularly.
- Disable FTP access when not in use.
- Don’t store FTP credentials in plain-text files.
- Use IP-restricted FTP access if your host supports it.