FTP (File Transfer Protocol) lets you move files directly to and from your hosting account without opening the File Manager in your control panel. It's the fastest way to upload a large number of files at once, edit website code directly, or keep a local project folder in sync with your live site. This guide walks you through connecting with FileZilla, a free FTP client available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
What You Need Before You Start
- An FTP account with a server address, username, and password. If you haven't created one yet, see How to Create an FTP Account first.
- The FileZilla Client installed on your computer.
These steps are the same whether your hosting account runs on cPanel or DirectAdmin, since the connection happens entirely on your computer through the FTP client, not through the control panel.
Step 1: Find Your FTP Login Details
You'll need four pieces of information to connect:
- Host: usually your domain name (e.g. yourdomain.co.ke) or your server's IP address.
- Username: the FTP account username you created.
- Password: the password you set for that account.
- Port: usually 21 for standard FTP.
If you're not sure of your server's hostname or IP address, check your welcome email or your hosting account summary in your control panel.
Step 2: Connect Using FileZilla
- Open FileZilla and locate the Quickconnect bar at the top of the window.
- Enter your server address in the Host field.
- Enter your FTP account details in the Username and Password fields.
- Enter 21 in the Port field, or leave it blank to use the default.
- Click Quickconnect.
On your first connection, FileZilla may show a certificate or host key prompt. This is normal for a new connection; tick the option to trust the certificate and continue.
Step 3: Upload and Manage Files
Once connected, FileZilla shows two panes: your computer's files on the left (Local site) and your hosting account's files on the right (Remote site). Navigate to the public_html folder on the remote side, this is your website's root folder, and drag files across to upload them.
Avoid deleting or renaming system folders you don't recognize, such as cgi-bin. These support core hosting functions even if they look unused.
Troubleshooting
If FileZilla shows a connection refused or login failed error, double-check your host, username, and password for typos, and confirm your account isn't temporarily blocked by a firewall. For a fuller checklist, see FTP Connection Refused or Login Failed: How to Fix It.