FTP Software Tutorial.

How to upload and download with popular FTP programs

File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

FTP is a standard network protocol used to transfer files between a local computer and a remote server. It is commonly used to upload, download, and manage website files and is essential for developers, administrators, and site owners.

How FTP Works

  1. Client and Server
    An FTP client connects to an FTP server that stores your website files.
  2. Connection Details
    • Host: Your domain name or server IP
    • Port: 21 (default)
    • Username and Password: Your Web Host Pro cPanel credentials
  3. File Management
    • ls or dir: list files
    • cd: change directory
    • get: download files
    • put: upload files
    • rm: delete files
    • mkdir: create folders
  4. Disconnect
    Use quit or bye to end the session.

Important Directory Notes

FTP logins default to the root directory. Each domain has a dedicated WWW directory. Always upload website files inside the correct WWW directory, not the root.

Default Pages
Supported default filenames include index.html, index.htm, index.php, and index.cgi. The default Web Host Pro placeholder uses index.html, which must be removed if using another default file.

Firewall Settings
If you are behind a firewall, enable Passive (PASV) mode in your FTP client. Many clients also include an Enable Firewall Access option.

General FTP Settings

  • Host: yourdomainname.com
  • Username: Your Web Host Pro cPanel username
  • Password: Your Web Host Pro cPanel password
  • Port: 21

Popular FTP Programs

Cyberduck (Windows and Mac)

Free
https://cyberduck.io/
Modern and intuitive interface. Paid version available with advanced features.

WinSCP (Windows)

Free
https://winscp.net/
Reliable FTP and SFTP client widely used by developers.

SmartFTP (Windows)

Free
https://www.smartftp.com/en-us/
Supports FTP, FTPS, SFTP, and WebDAV.

Core FTP (Windows)

Free
https://www.coreftp.com/
Lightweight FTP client with essential features.

Mac FTP Programs

Commander One

https://mac.eltima.com/ftp-manager.html
Dual-pane file manager with FTP, SFTP, and FTPS support.

Fetch

https://fetchsoftworks.com/
Simple Mac FTP client supporting drag and drop uploads.

Transmit

https://panic.com/transmit/
Professional grade FTP client with fast file synchronization.