File Transfer Protocol (FTP) in short, is a network protocol used to transfer data packets from one node to another via the Internet. Hence, it allows you to transfer files between two or more computers through a network.
It is built on a client-server architecture with distinct controls and data connections between the client and server.
Transferring any files with FTP requires a client/program, which establishes a connection to a remote computer via specific software. The client can choose to send and/or receive the files.
A username and password managed by the admin of the server are required for the connection to the FTP. However, there are public FTPs which allow a special exemption that accepts a username of “anonymous”.
Lastly, there are a wide range of FTP programs, such as Filezilla, SmartFTP, gFTP, etc.
Setup Using Filezilla (FTP)
1. To set up FTP (File Transfer Protocol), you would require a client to do the transfer. You could download the latest client HERE and have it installed.
2. Once installed, launch the program and the following screen should appear. Next, click on the first left icon, namely Site Manager.
3. Rename “New Site” to your preferred name such as yourdomain.com. Then fill out the connection details and click “OK” to save the settings.
Host: ftp.yourdomain.com or IP Address
Logon type: Normal
Username: FTP Username
Password: FTP Password
4. Go back to the main screen. Click on the small arrow at your right (next to “Site Manager”) and select the name that was just created in the previous step.
5. Connection is now established. You will see the server files on your right and the local files on your left.
At this point, you have successfully connected to the server. You may drag and drop, double click or right click on them to transfer the files between two locations.
For Linux users, upload your website files to “public_html” folder.
For Windows users, upload your website files to “wwwroot” folder.