How to connect with FTP and upload files to your website

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is the standard way to upload files to your website. Whether you want to upload a complete website design, install a plugin manually or make a backup, FTP gives you direct access to all the files on your hosting package.

What is FTP?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol: a protocol that transfers files between your computer and a web server. You use an FTP client (software on your computer) to connect to your server and upload, download or edit files.

There are three variants:

• FTP: unencrypted connection (not recommended)
• FTPS: FTP over SSL/TLS (encrypted)
• SFTP: SSH File Transfer Protocol (encrypted, recommended)

Always use SFTP or FTPS to make sure your login details and files are sent encrypted.

Connecting over FTP with FileZilla

FileZilla is the most popular free FTP client. Follow these steps to connect.

1. Download and install FileZilla

Download FileZilla for free from filezilla-project.org and install it on your computer. FileZilla is available for Windows, macOS and Linux.

2. Find your FTP details

You'll find your FTP login details in the welcome message for your hosting package or in your DirectAdmin control panel under FTP Management. You need:

• Host/Server: usually your domain name (e.g. ftp.yourdomain.com) or the server IP address
• Username: your FTP username
• Password: your FTP password
• Port: 21 for FTP/FTPS or 22 for SFTP

3. Connecting

Open FileZilla and fill in the Quickconnect bar at the top:

1. Host: sftp://yourdomain.com (or ftp://yourdomain.com)
2. Username: your FTP username
3. Password: your FTP password
4. Port: 22 (SFTP) or 21 (FTP)
5. Click Quickconnect

Once you're connected, you'll see your local files on the left and the files on your server on the right.

4. Uploading files

In the right-hand pane, navigate to the folder /domains/yourdomain.com/public_html/ (or /public_html/). This is the root of your website. Drag files from left to right to upload them, or right-click and choose "Upload.

DirectAdmin File Manager

Don't have an FTP client at hand? Then you can also use DirectAdmin's built-in File Manager:

1. Log in to DirectAdmin
2. Go to System Info and Files → File Manager
3. Navigate to /domains/yourdomain.com/public_html/
4. Use the "Upload button to upload files
5. Click files to edit, rename or delete them

The File Manager is handy for small changes, but for uploading lots of files FileZilla is faster and more reliable.

SFTP vs FTP: why SFTP is better

Standard FTP sends your password and files unencrypted over the internet. Anyone on the same network can intercept your login details. SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) encrypts everything, including your password and the contents of your files.

With Theory7 hosting, SFTP is available by default on port 22. Always use sftp:// instead of ftp:// in FileZilla.

Common FTP errors and solutions

• "Connection refused" or "Connection timed out: check that the host, port and protocol are correct. Try port 22 (SFTP) if port 21 doesn't work.
• "530 Login incorrect: your username or password is wrong. Reset your password in DirectAdmin.
• "550 Permission denied: you don't have permission to write to this folder. Check the file permissions.
• "421 Too many connections: you have too many simultaneous connections. Limit the number in FileZilla to 2 or 3.
• Files don't upload to the right folder: always navigate to /public_html/ before you upload files.

Frequently asked questions about FTP

What is the difference between FTP, FTPS and SFTP?

FTP sends data unencrypted. FTPS is FTP with an SSL/TLS layer for encryption. SFTP is a completely different protocol that runs over SSH and encrypts everything. SFTP is the most secure and is recommended. With Theory7 hosting you can use SFTP on port 22.

Where can I find my FTP login details?

Your FTP details are in the welcome email for your hosting package. You can also create a new FTP account or reset your password in DirectAdmin under FTP Management. The host is usually your domain name or the server IP address.

Can I use FTP to edit WordPress files?

Yes, FTP gives you direct access to all WordPress files. This is especially useful when your website shows an error and you can no longer log in to the WordPress dashboard. Over FTP you can deactivate plugins, switch themes or restore the .htaccess file.

Is it safe to use FTP on public Wi-Fi?

Only if you use SFTP. Standard FTP sends your password unencrypted, so it can be intercepted on public networks. Always use SFTP (port 22) or FTPS for a secure connection, whatever the network.