How to use Filezilla to transfer files via FTP

File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a common method for transferring files to and from computers, both locally and remotely.

FTP is a flexible and popular choice due to its ability to queue and transfer large batches of files, support paused and resumed transfers, limit transfer rates, and more.

FTP transfers are natively supported in many web browsers, while you’ll also find dedicated FTP client applications available for all major operating systems. One popular option is Filezilla, which is available for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.

In this article, we’ll show you how to use Filezilla to transfer files via FTP. You’ll need to begin by downloading Filezilla, then installing the client application onto your operating system.

Filezilla website

Locate your FTP access credentials

FTP access to your HostPapa server requires a username and password. Your FTP client will need to be configured with these credentials before you can access the server.

  1. Log in to your HostPapa Dashboard.
  2. Select My cPanel from the top navigation bar. 
  3. Under Files, click the FTP Accounts icon.

FTP Accounts in cPanel

4. Scroll down to the FTP Accounts section.

FTP in cPanel

5. You’ll notice that one or more FTP accounts may have been pre-configured for you when your account was created. You can use these accounts to access your server or scroll up the page to create a new FTP account.

To learn more about configuring additional FTP accounts, check out our Knowledge Base article.

6. Once created, click Configure FTP Client to display your FTP account credentials.

Log in to your server using Filezilla

Open Filezilla and select File > Site Manager to enter your FTP account details.

  • Hostname/Server Name: This is your domain name with an FTP prefix (for example, mydomain.com).
  • Port: The port number used for FTP connections to the server, typically port 21.
  • Logon Type: If requested, set this to Normal, not Anonymous.
  • User: Enter your FTP user account name.
  • Password: Enter your FTP account password.

FTP configuration

Upload files using Filezilla

Once logged in to the FTP server, you’ll notice two panes on the screen. The left pane displays the files and folders stored on your local computer, while the right pane displays the contents of the remote computer.

  1. In the left pane, navigate and select the files and folders you wish to upload to the server. Most FTP clients allow you to simply drag and drop files from one pane to the other to initiate an upload. 
  2. Alternatively, highlight the files, right-click, and select Upload.

Your files will now be queued to be uploaded to the server.

Download files using Filezilla

Downloading files from your remote server to your local computer works in a similar way. 

  1. Navigate to the file or folder you wish to download in the right pane. 
  2. Highlight the file or folder, right-click, and select Download.

If you need help with your HostPapa account, please open a support ticket from your dashboard.

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