How to Configure FileZilla for Use with cPanel

FileZilla is a popular FTP client that allows you to upload, download, and manage files on your web hosting account from your computer.

This guide explains how to configure FileZilla to connect to your cPanel hosting account.

Step 1: Download and Install FileZilla

If you do not already have FileZilla installed:

1. Visit the official FileZilla website.

2. Download FileZilla Client for your operating system.

3. Install the program following the on-screen instructions.

After installation, open FileZilla.

Step 2: Gather Your FTP Login Details

Before connecting, you will need the following information:

• FTP Host / Server: yourdomain.com or your server hostname

• Username: Your FTP username or cPanel username

• Password: Your FTP account password

• Port: 21 (FTP) or 22 (SFTP if supported)

You can find your FTP account details in cPanel → FTP Accounts.

Step 3: Open the Site Manager

1. Open FileZilla.

2. Click File in the top menu.

3. Select Site Manager.

4. Click New Site.

Enter a name for the connection (for example: My Website).

Step 4: Enter Connection Settings

Fill in the following connection details:

Protocol

• FTP – File Transfer Protocol
  or

• SFTP – SSH File Transfer Protocol (recommended if available)

Host

Enter your domain name or server hostname.

Example:

yourdomain.com

Port

• 21 for FTP

• 22 for SFTP

Logon Type

Select Normal.

User

Enter your FTP username or cPanel username.

Password

Enter your FTP password.

Step 5: Connect to the Server

1. Click Connect.

2. If prompted about the server certificate, click OK or Trust.

Once connected, FileZilla will display:

• Local Site: Files on your computer

• Remote Site: Files on your hosting server

You can now drag and drop files between the two panels.

Step 6: Upload Website Files

To upload files to your website:

1. Locate the file or folder on the Local Site (left panel).

2. Drag the file into the Remote Site (right panel).

Most website files should be uploaded to the:

public_html

directory.

Files placed in this folder will be accessible on your website.

Tips for Using FileZilla

• Use SFTP (port 22) when available for better security.

• Upload files to the public_html directory to make them visible on your website.

• Avoid modifying system folders unless you know what they are used for.

• Keep backups of important website files before making major changes.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If FileZilla cannot connect:

• Verify your hostname, username, and password.

• Confirm the port number is correct.

• Check that your FTP account is active in cPanel.

• Try connecting using the server hostname instead of your domain name.

If you continue to experience issues connecting to your hosting account using FileZilla, please contact our support team and include any error messages or screenshots so we can assist you further.