Connect with FTP or SFTP

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) lets you send and download your website files from your computer. It is the most practical way to publish a complete site, upload lots of images or keep a copy of your files. SFTP does the same thing over an encrypted connection: your passwords and files never travel in clear text. This guide explains how to create an account and how to set it up in the most popular apps.

Before you start

• Install a free FTP app: FileZilla (Windows, Mac, Linux) or Cyberduck (Mac, Windows).
• Keep your hosting page in the client area open.
• To edit just one or two files, the Files tool in the client area is enough, with no software at all.

Create an account step by step

1. Open your hosting, then the FTP tool.
2. Find the main account: it is already there.
3. For a team member, create an additional account.
4. Enter a username.
5. Choose a password of at least 8 characters.
6. Set the allowed folder, then confirm.

An additional account limited to one folder is ideal for a contractor: they only see what they need, and you can delete the account when the job is done.

Connect

In your app, use the details shown in the FTP tool:

• Host: the server address shown on the page;
• Protocol: preferably SFTP, which is encrypted;
• Username and password: those of the chosen account.

Set up FileZilla

1. Open FileZilla, then File and Site Manager.
2. Click New site and give it a name.
3. Under Protocol, choose SFTP - SSH File Transfer Protocol.
4. Enter the host, username and password shown in the FTP tool.
5. Click Connect. On the first connection, accept the server fingerprint.

The left pane shows your computer and the right pane your hosting. Drag files from left to right to upload them into httpdocs.

Set up Cyberduck

1. Click Open Connection.
2. Choose SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) from the list.
3. Fill in the server, username and password.
4. Click Connect, then open the httpdocs folder.

Common errors and fixes

• Authentication failed: check the full username and the password. A space copied by mistake is enough to block the connection.
• Connection timed out: check the host and the protocol. A company firewall can also block the connection: try from another network.
• Uploaded files do not show on the site: they are probably outside httpdocs or in a subfolder. The home page must be at the root of httpdocs.
• Permission denied: the account you used is limited to another folder. Log in with the main account or create an account allowed on the right folder.

Best practices

• Use SFTP rather than plain FTP.
• Give each person their own account, and delete it when they no longer need it.
• Do not leave your password saved on a shared computer.
• Before overwriting important files, create a backup, see Restore a backup of your website.
• Download a copy of your site from time to time to keep a local archive.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between FTP and SFTP?

Both transfer files. SFTP encrypts the connection, while classic FTP sends information in clear text. Always choose SFTP when you can.

Where do I find my FTP host and username?

In the FTP tool of your hosting, in the client area. The server address and existing accounts are shown there.

Which folder should I upload my website files to?

To httpdocs. It is your site's public folder, as explained in Manage your web hosting from the client area.

I forgot my FTP password, what should I do?

For an additional account, the simplest option is to delete it in the FTP tool and create a new one. For the main account, open a support ticket. Then update the password in your FTP app.

Can I give my developer FTP access without sharing my client area?

Yes. Create an additional account limited to the folder they need. They can work on the files without seeing your invoices or your other services.