How to use ftp or sftp server to transfer files in 2024

Do you want to know How to use ftp or sftp server to transfer files?

FTP (File Transfer Protocol), is a speedy and straightforward method to send files from your computer to your website.

In this article, we will show you How to use an FTP or SFTP server to transfer files to your website.

What is FTP?

If you have designed a WordPress website, then you may have encountered FTP and questioned whether it should be used.

FTP is an acronym for File Transfer Protocol. It’s a standard approach to sending files from your computer to your website hosting account. It can be visualized as file control for the internet.

An FTP client, a software package, is employed to link to your website’s FTP server. Once the connection is established, you can reach the files on your website and upload files from your computer.

You might question the necessity of FTP when you can upload files to your site without it. For instance, you can upload media files from your WordPress admin area. You can also upload plugins and themes using WordPress.

FTP is beneficial as it can be used even if there is a malfunction with your WordPress site. For example, you can use FTP to manually upload a plugin or theme file when you are diagnosing WordPress problems.

Selecting FTP Software

Initially, you must download and install an FTP client on your computer. An FTP client is an application that aids in linking to your website and sending files using the FTP protocol.

Some prevalent complimentary programs include WinSCP for Windows, Cyberduck for Mac, and the cross-platform FileZilla. In this instructional guide, we will utilize FileZilla, but the basic principles remain consistent irrespective of the software you opt for.

Linking to Your Website Using FTP

FTP mandates a username and password to secure your files. Hence, upon initiating your FTP software, you will be required to input your FTP login credentials.

Your FTP login credentials were transmitted to you via email upon registering for your WordPress hosting account.

You can also retrieve your FTP account information from your hosting account’s dashboard.

I am using Hostinger hPanel the best WordPress hosting provider of all time

We will need an FTP server first, and we can set one up using our Hostinger account.

Login to your Hostinger hPanel account and navigate to the FTP accounts section

Create a new FTP account by filling out a new username and password

You will see new FTP servers (Hostname) under the list of active FTP accounts

If you encounter difficulty in locating your login credentials, you can reach out to your hosting provider for the relevant details.

After acquiring the login information, launch FileZilla and choose the File » Site Manager option from the top menu.

This will unveil a popup window where you can input your website details.

You will tap on the ‘New Site’ button and furnish a heading for your website.

It is now time to insert the login details obtained earlier. In the protocol section, pick SFTP if your hosting provider approves it. Otherwise, maintain it as FTP.

You will be prompted to input your host. This is commonly your domain name, yet sometimes ‘ftp.’ may need to be added at the beginning.

Following this, you should designate ‘Normal’ for the Logon Type and then include your FTP username and password.

Upon inputting the details, click the ‘Connect’ button to proceed. FileZilla will preserve your website settings for upcoming logins and establish a fresh FTP connection to your website.

If this marks your initial time connecting to your website from this computer, FileZilla may present a certificate popup.

You have the option to halt this from appearing by verifying the ‘Permanently trust credential for upcoming sessions.’ Afterward, proceed by selecting the ‘OK’ button.

FileZilla will now endeavor to log into your website using the details you provided. Upon connection, two columns displaying files and directories will be visible.

The left column exhibits the Local files on your device. On the right, the column shows the Remote files on your website, making it convenient to transfer files to and from your site.

Uploading Documents to Your WordPress Site Using FTP

Now, you are set to transfer files to your website. Begin with the simple step of uploading a sample file to the primary folder on your website.

Initially, navigate to the directory containing the test file on your device located in the left-hand column comprised of local files.

Subsequently, ensure the visibility of the target folder in the Remote site column on the right.

Following this, right-click the file and opt for ‘Send’ from the menu.

FileZilla will upload the file from your device to your WordPress site, creating a duplicate while leaving the original on your device.

We advise you not to employ the drag-and-drop method for uploading files due to its unreliability. Accidental placement of the file in a folder may result in uploading it to the wrong destination on your website.

It is crucial as WordPress anticipates specific files and folders in designated locations. Placing a file in the wrong folder could lead to complications.

For instance, when you transmit media files using FTP, they belong in a folder within /wp-content/uploads/. Themes ought to be transmitted to /wp-content/themes/ and plugins to the /wp-content/plugins/ folder.

To observe this in action, you can manually transmit a plugin to your WordPress website.

In the beginning, download the plugin and unzip the files. You will locate a folder housing the plugin.

Downloading Files from Your WordPress Site Using FTP

FTP is not only employed for uploading files from your device to your WordPress site but also for downloading files for editing purposes.

Simply right-click the file you wish to download in the Remote site column and select ‘Download’ from the menu. The file will be transferred to the folder you are viewing in the left-hand Local column.

Conclusion

In conclusion, utilizing FTP or SFTP for file transfer is a fundamental skill for WordPress users, providing a reliable method to manage files on your website. Whether uploading plugins, and themes, or downloading files for editing, FileZilla simplifies the process. Hostinger’s hPanel enhances the experience by offering an intuitive interface for setting up FTP accounts.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ve gained the knowledge to establish a secure FTP connection, ensuring seamless file transfers between your computer and WordPress site. FTP proves invaluable for troubleshooting issues and manually uploading files in situations where conventional methods might face challenges. Mastering FTP empowers WordPress users to have greater control and flexibility in managing their websites.

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