FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol.
FTP is used to upload, download, and manage website files between your computer and your hosting account.
You can use FTP with a program such as FileZilla to connect to your hosting account and work with your website files.
What Is FTP Used For?
FTP is commonly used to:
- Upload website files
- Download website files
- Replace website files
- Move files between your computer and hosting account
- Upload images, scripts, or documents
- Manage large numbers of files
- Transfer website backups
- Work with website developers
FTP is useful when you need to manage more files than would be practical through File Manager.
How Does FTP Work?
FTP connects your computer to your hosting account using FTP login details.
These details usually include:
- FTP hostname
- FTP username
- FTP password
- Port number
Once connected, your FTP program shows files on your computer and files on the hosting account.
You can then upload or download files between them.
Common FTP Details
Typical FTP details may look like this:
FTP Host: ftp.yourdomain.co.za
Username: your FTP username
Password: your FTP password
Port: 21
The exact details may differ depending on your hosting account and FTP setup.
FTP vs File Manager
FTP and File Manager both allow you to manage website files.
File Manager works inside DirectAdmin through your browser.
FTP uses a separate program such as FileZilla.
File Manager is useful for quick edits and simple uploads.
FTP is better for uploading or downloading many files.
What Is an FTP Account?
An FTP account is a login that allows access to files on your hosting account.
DirectAdmin allows you to create FTP accounts.
You can create an FTP account for yourself, a developer, or another trusted user.
Additional FTP accounts can often be limited to specific folders.
When Should I Use FTP?
You may want to use FTP if:
- You need to upload many files.
- You need to download many files.
- Your website developer needs file access.
- File Manager is too slow for the task.
- You are uploading a custom website.
- You are moving website files from another host.
- You need to manage files regularly.
Is FTP Secure?
Standard FTP does not encrypt the connection in the same way that secure protocols do.
Where available, you should use secure connection options such as FTPS or SFTP if your hosting service supports them.
If you are unsure which option to use, contact HostworX Support.
Be Careful With FTP Access
FTP gives access to website files.
Anyone with FTP access may be able to change, upload, or delete files depending on their permissions.
Only give FTP details to trusted users.
If a developer no longer needs access, remove or change the FTP account.
Step 1 – Log Into DirectAdmin
Open your browser and visit: https://cp.yourdomain.co.za (Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.)
Enter your DirectAdmin username and password.
Click: Log In
Step 2 – Open FTP Management
Once you are logged into DirectAdmin, open the FTP area.
Click: Account Manager
Then click: FTP Management
From here, you can view, create, or manage FTP accounts.
Important Notes
Please keep the following in mind:
- FTP is used to transfer files between your computer and hosting account.
- FTP access should only be given to trusted users.
- Keep FTP passwords secure.
- Remove FTP accounts that are no longer needed.
- FTP is useful for large uploads and downloads.
- File Manager may be easier for small changes.
- Use secure FTP options where available.
When Should I Contact HostworX Support?
Contact HostworX Support if:
- You cannot connect using FTP.
- Your FTP password does not work.
- You are unsure which FTP host to use.
- You need help creating an FTP account.
- You want to limit FTP access to a specific folder.
- You are unsure whether to use FTP, FTPS, or SFTP.
Conclusion
FTP is a file transfer method used to upload and download website files.
It is useful for managing website files, working with developers, and transferring large numbers of files.
Always keep FTP login details secure and only share them with trusted users.
