WinSCP is a file transfer program for Windows.
It is commonly used to upload, download, and manage website files between your computer and your hosting account.
WinSCP can connect using different file transfer methods, including FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, depending on what your hosting account supports.
What Is WinSCP Used For?
WinSCP can be used to:
- Upload website files
- Download website files
- Replace files on the server
- Transfer images and documents
- Upload custom website files
- Download website backups
- Manage files for a developer
- Move files between your computer and hosting account
- Edit files using a built-in or external editor
It is especially useful for Windows users who need to manage website files regularly.
How Does WinSCP Work?
WinSCP connects your computer to your hosting account using file transfer login details.
These details usually include:
- Host name
- Username
- Password
- Port number
- File protocol
Once connected, WinSCP shows files on your computer and files on your hosting account.
You can then upload, download, move, rename, edit, or delete files.
What Login Details Do I Need?
To connect with WinSCP, you usually need:
File protocol: FTP
Host name: ftp.yourdomain.co.za
Username: your FTP username
Password: your FTP password
Port: 21
Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.
If your hosting account supports FTPS or SFTP, your settings may be different.
WinSCP vs DirectAdmin File Manager
WinSCP and DirectAdmin File Manager both allow you to manage website files.
WinSCP is installed on your Windows computer and connects using FTP, FTPS, or SFTP.
DirectAdmin File Manager works from your browser.
WinSCP is useful for larger uploads, downloads, and regular file management.
File Manager is useful for quick browser-based changes.
WinSCP vs FileZilla
WinSCP and FileZilla are both file transfer programs.
FileZilla works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
WinSCP is mainly used on Windows.
WinSCP is popular with Windows users because it has a familiar file explorer style and can be convenient for editing files.
Both can be used to upload and download website files.
Where Should I Upload Website Files?
Website files are usually uploaded into the public_html folder for the correct domain.
For example:
domains/yourdomain.co.za/public_html
Make sure you upload files to the correct domain folder.
Uploading files to the wrong folder may cause the website not to display correctly.
Step 1 – Create or Confirm Your FTP Account
Before using WinSCP, make sure you have an FTP account.
You can create or manage FTP accounts in 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
Click: Account Manager
Then click: FTP Management
Step 2 – Open WinSCP
Open WinSCP on your Windows computer.
If you do not have WinSCP installed, download it from the official WinSCP website.
Only download WinSCP from the official website or a trusted source.
Step 3 – Enter Your Connection Details
In the WinSCP login window, enter your connection details.
Locate: File protocol, example: FTP
Locate: Host name, example: ftp.yourdomain.co.za
Locate: Port number, example: 21
Locate: User name, example: your FTP username
Locate: Password, example: your FTP password
Click: Login
Step 4 – Accept the Connection Prompt if Shown
WinSCP may show a prompt when connecting to a server for the first time.
Read the message carefully.
If the host name is correct and you trust the connection, click: Yes
Step 5 – Open the Website Folder
After connecting, open the folder for your website.
Navigate to:
domains/yourdomain.co.za/public_html
Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.
This is usually where your website files are stored.
Step 6 – Upload or Download Files
To upload files, drag them from your computer into the website folder on the server.
To download files, drag them from the server to a folder on your computer.
Be careful not to overwrite important files unless you are sure.
Step 7 – Disconnect When Finished
When you are finished managing files, close the connection.
Click: Session
Then click: Disconnect
This helps keep your file transfer session secure.
Important Notes
Please keep the following in mind:
- WinSCP needs valid FTP, FTPS, or SFTP login details.
- Upload website files to the correct public_html folder.
- Be careful when replacing existing files.
- FTP passwords should be kept secure.
- Only share FTP access with trusted users.
- Delete unused FTP accounts when no longer needed.
- Large uploads may take time depending on your internet connection.
- Standard FTP is not encrypted in the same way as secure transfer methods.
Common WinSCP Connection Problems
WinSCP may fail to connect if:
- The username is incorrect.
- The password is incorrect.
- The host name is incorrect.
- The wrong port is used.
- The wrong file protocol is selected.
- The FTP account was deleted.
- The internet connection is blocking FTP.
- A firewall is blocking the connection.
- Secure FTP settings are required.
When Should I Contact HostworX Support?
Contact HostworX Support if:
- WinSCP will not connect.
- You do not know your FTP details.
- You need help creating an FTP account.
- You are unsure which folder to upload files into.
- Uploads fail repeatedly.
- Your website does not load after uploading files.
- You are unsure whether to use FTP, FTPS, or SFTP.
Conclusion
WinSCP is a Windows file transfer program used to upload, download, and manage website files.
It is useful for managing files on your hosting account, especially when working with many files or making regular updates.
Always use the correct connection details and upload website files to the correct public_html folder for your domain.
