Uploading Files via FTP with FileZilla
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) allows you to transfer files between your computer and your hosting account using a dedicated application. FileZilla is a free, popular FTP client available for Windows, Mac and Linux.
Step 1: Download FileZilla
Download FileZilla for free from filezilla-project.org and install it on your computer.
Step 2: Get Your FTP Details
Your FTP details are the same as your cPanel login:
- Host: ftp.yourdomain.co.za (or your domain name)
- Username: Your cPanel username
- Password: Your cPanel password
- Port: 21 (standard FTP) or 22 (SFTP – more secure)
You can also create a dedicated FTP account in cPanel under FTP Accounts if you want to limit access to a specific folder.
Step 3: Connect to Your Hosting
- Open FileZilla
- Enter your Host, Username, Password and Port at the top
- Click Quickconnect
- If prompted about a server certificate, click OK to accept
Step 4: Upload Files
- On the left panel, navigate to the files on your computer
- On the right panel, navigate to public_html (your website root)
- Drag files from left to right to upload them
Use SFTP for Better Security
SFTP encrypts your file transfers. Use port 22 instead of 21 and select SFTP as the protocol in FileZilla’s Site Manager.