How to Obtain FTP Access

Introduction

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) allows you to upload and manage files on your web server directly from your computer. This article explains two key processes to get FTP access for your WordPress site.

Follow the steps below to enable FTP, configure your account, and connect securely using any FTP client (e.g., FileZilla, Cyberduck).

Request FTP Access from Your Hosting Provider

Before you can create an FTP account in cPanel, make sure your hosting environment supports FTP or SFTP:

Open a Support Ticket or Chat

Contact your host’s support team and ask them to enable FTP (or SFTP) for your account.

Confirm Connection Details

Request the following information:

• Server/Host (e.g., ftp.yourdomain.com or the server IP)
• Port (typically 21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP)
• Protocol supported (FTP, FTPS, or SFTP)
• Any firewall or IP whitelist requirements
  

Activate the Service
Some hosts require you to explicitly enable FTP access in your account dashboard or control panel. Follow their instructions until they confirm FTP is active.

Create FTP Account in Your cPanel

Access the FTP Accounts Interface

1. Log in to your cPanel dashboard (usually at yourdomain.com/cpanel).
2. In the Files section, click FTP Accounts.
   

Create a New FTP Account

1. Login: Enter a username (e.g., ftpuser).
2. Domain: Select the correct domain from the dropdown.
3. Password: Type a strong password or click Generate.
4. Directory: Specify the folder this account can access (e.g., public_html/).
5. Quota: Set storage limits (e.g., Unlimited or a custom MB value).
6. Click Create FTP Account.
   

Retrieve FTP Connection Details

1. Scroll down to FTP Accounts, locate your new account, and click Configure FTP Client.
2. Note the FTP Host, Port, Username, and Password.
3. Optionally download the FTP Configuration File for automatic setup in supported clients.
   

Test Your FTP Connection

1. Open your FTP client and create a new site or connection profile.
2. Enter the Host, Username, Password, and Port.
3. Select FTP or FTPS/SFTP if your host supports secure connections.
4. Connect and verify you can browse the specified directory and upload/download files.
   

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Q: How can I limit an FTP user to a single folder?
A: When creating the account, set the Directory field to your chosen subfolder (e.g., public_html/private-area). The user will be jailed in that folder.

Q: Can I delete an FTP account later?
A: Yes. In FTP Accounts, click Delete next to the account you wish to remove —this revokes its access immediately.

Q: Should I use FTPS or SFTP instead of plain FTP?
A: For better security, use FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS) or SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) if your host provides it. FTPS typically uses port 21, while SFTP uses port 22.