FTP lets you transfer files between your computer and your hosting account using a program such as FileZilla (free, for Windows and Mac). It's the best option for uploading lots of files or large websites.
Step 1: Create an FTP account
- In cPanel, go to Files › FTP Accounts.
- Enter a Log In name (e.g.
developer) and choose the domain. - Check the Directory field. cPanel suggests a new folder named after the user, and the account can only access that folder.
- For access to your whole website, change it to
public_html. - To limit someone to one part of your site, enter that folder, e.g.
public_html/shop.
- For access to your whole website, change it to
- Set a strong Password and a Quota (or leave it as Unlimited).
- Click Create FTP Account.
Note: Your main cPanel username and password also work as an FTP login, with access to your whole account. We recommend creating separate FTP accounts for web designers or developers, so you can remove their access later.
Step 2: Connect with FileZilla
- Open FileZilla and go to File › Site Manager › New site.
- Enter these settings:
Setting Value Protocol FTP - File Transfer Protocol Host yourdomain.co.uk(or the server hostname from your welcome email)Port 21Encryption Require explicit FTP over TLS Logon Type Normal User The full FTP username, e.g. [email protected]Password The FTP account password - Click Connect. If asked about the server's certificate, check the details and click OK.
Your computer's files appear on the left and your hosting files on the right. Drag files across to upload or download them.
Tip: In Files › FTP Accounts, click Configure FTP Client next to an account to download a ready-made FileZilla configuration file.
Troubleshooting
| Error | Fix |
|---|---|
530 Login authentication failed |
Use the full username including @yourdomain.co.uk, and check the password. |
| Connection times out on directory listing | In FileZilla, go to Edit › Settings › FTP and make sure Passive mode is selected. |
| Certificate warning | Use the server hostname as the Host to match the certificate. |
| Blocked after several failed logins | Wait 15–30 minutes, or contact support to unblock your IP address. |
Still stuck? Contact Raleway support and our team will be happy to help.