Connecting with an FTP Client (FileZilla)

FileZilla is a free, open-source FTP client available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. This guide walks through connecting to your hosting account, but the same settings apply to any FTP client.

Please note: Screens and options may vary slightly depending on your cPanel version and hosting plan.

Installing FileZilla

Download FileZilla Client (not FileZilla Server) from filezilla-project.org. Install it using the default settings.

Connecting via SFTP (Recommended)

SFTP is the most secure option, encrypting both your credentials and file transfers.

1. Open FileZilla.
2. Go to File > Site Manager > New Site.
3. Enter the following settings:

- Protocol: SFTP - SSH File Transfer Protocol - Host: yourdomain.com or your server's IP address - Port: 22 - Logon Type: Normal - User: Your cPanel username - Password: Your cPanel password

1. Click Connect.

Connecting via FTPS (FTP over TLS)

If SFTP is not available, FTPS is the next best option.

1. Open FileZilla.
2. Go to File > Site Manager > New Site.
3. Enter the following settings:

- Protocol: FTP - File Transfer Protocol - Host: yourdomain.com or your server's IP address - Port: 21 - Encryption: Require explicit FTP over TLS - Logon Type: Normal - User: Your full FTP username (e.g. [email protected]) - Password: Your FTP password

1. Click Connect.
2. If prompted about a certificate, verify the details and click OK to accept.

Using FileZilla

Once connected, the FileZilla interface shows:

• Left pane — Your local computer's files.
• Right pane — Your server's files.
• Top bar — Connection status and transfer queue.

To upload files: Drag files from the left pane to the right pane, or right-click a file and select Upload.

To download files: Drag files from the right pane to the left pane, or right-click and select Download.

To edit files: Right-click a file on the server and select View/Edit. It will open in your default editor. Save the file and FileZilla will prompt you to upload the changes.

Troubleshooting

• "Connection timed out" — Check you're using the correct host, port, and protocol. Your IP may be blocked by the server firewall — contact your hosting provider.
• "Authentication failed" — Verify your username and password. For FTP-specific accounts, use the full username including the domain (e.g. [email protected]).
• "Directory listing failed" — Try switching to passive mode: Edit > Settings > Connection > FTP > select Passive transfer mode.
• Certificate warnings — These are normal for self-signed certificates. Verify the server hostname and accept the certificate.

Tips

• Save your connection as a site in the Site Manager for quick access in future.
• Use the Transfer Queue at the bottom of the screen to monitor uploads and downloads.
• For large transfers, FileZilla supports resuming interrupted transfers.

What Next?

• Creating and Managing FTP Accounts — Set up additional FTP users.
• Using the File Manager — Quick edits without FTP software.

Related Articles

• Creating and Managing FTP Accounts
• Using the File Manager
• Using SSH Access