How to Connect to Hosting with FTP or SFTP

FTP, FTPS and SFTP

FTP transfers files between your computer and a server, but standard FTP does not encrypt credentials or file contents. SFTP uses an encrypted SSH connection and is generally preferable when supported. FTPS adds TLS encryption to FTP. These are different protocols, so select the exact one your provider supports.

Find your connection details

Your hosting panel may show the host, username, password or SSH key, port and protocol. Common ports are 21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP and 990 for implicit FTPS, but follow your provider's instructions. Do not guess the host or port.

Connect and upload

1. Install a reputable file-transfer client.
2. Create a connection using the correct protocol.
3. Enter the host, username, port and authentication details.
4. Verify the server identity or SSH host key if prompted.
5. Open the correct website directory, which may be named public_html or httpdocs.

Keep a local copy before replacing files. Upload to the correct document root and do not overwrite configuration files unless you understand the impact. Do not grant unrestricted permissions to every file as a quick fix.

Troubleshooting

• Authentication failed: check the username, password or SSH key.
• Connection timed out: check host, port, network and IP restrictions.
• Wrong protocol: SFTP will not work on an FTP-only endpoint.
• Permission denied: the account may lack access to the directory.
• Host-key warning: verify unexpected changes with your provider.

If needed, share the error, protocol, host and port with support. Never send your password or private SSH key.

Related guides

• Troubleshoot FTP/SFTP connection problems
• Manage website files in cPanel
• Move a website to a new hosting provider