Connect FileZilla to hosting using the server and protocol your service supports. FTPS encrypts FTP with TLS. SFTP uses SSH and requires SSH-enabled access; a separate cPanel FTP account cannot be assumed to work with SFTP. Plain FTP does not encrypt the connection.
The video may demonstrate older connection settings. Use your service's supported encrypted protocol rather than copying an unencrypted FTP connection.
Before you start
- Obtain the exact hostname, protocol, port, and username from your hosting details or cPanel's FTP client settings. Do not guess from the website address.
- Have the authorized password or SSH key ready. For FTPS, use the supplied server hostname so it can match the server's certificate.
Instructions
Create a connection profile
Open FileZilla Client, then File and Site Manager. Create a new site with a recognizable name and enter the supplied hostname and port.
Select the supported protocol
For explicit FTPS, select FTP and require explicit FTP over TLS. For authorized SSH access, select SFTP. Use the provider's port; common defaults are 21 and 22 respectively.
Enter the account details
Use the complete username, including any domain suffix. Choose an appropriate login method, such as asking for a password, or the supplied SSH-key method for SFTP.
Verify server identity
Connect and review any certificate or SSH host-key prompt. Verify unexpected identity changes with support before accepting; do not disable encryption to make a warning disappear.
Confirm the remote location
The remote files appear on the right. Compare the location with the website's document root. A restricted FTP account may already open inside that root and display it as /.
Check the result
- The connection log shows a successful secure connection and directory listing.
- The remote pane contains the expected site's files before you upload, replace, or delete anything.
Troubleshooting
- Authentication fails.
- Recheck the complete username, password, protocol, and account type. FTP credentials and SSH credentials are not interchangeable.
- The connection times out or listing fails.
- Check the supplied port and local network restrictions. Send support the error text without passwords or private keys.
Watch the video
The video may show an older interface. Use the written instructions above when screen names differ.
Continue with a related task
- How to Create an FTP Account in cPanel
- How to Change an FTP Account Password in cPanel
- How to Upload an Index File with FileZilla
