FTP accounts: the file transfer protocol you need to know about

FTP is a protocol for transferring files between two systems or servers, also known as File Transfer Protocol. An FTP account is used to access that server for users to download and share files through a remote connection.

Don't worry about downloading large files via email, or sharing them on social networking platforms that may compromise the privacy and security of your data. With an FTP account you can allow others to download directly from your FTP server.

With this tool, you have more control over your files, as it allows you to set permissions and restrictions to ensure that only authorized people can access them. You can also make backups of the most important files on your FTP server to ensure that they are always safe and available when you need them.

In this blog we will tell you roughly how you can set up, protect, use, etc. an FTP account.

How to set up an FTP account

Setting up an FTP account can be a complicated or complex process at first, but it is actually quite simple. Before you start configuring it, you must have a Cloud or Hosting contracted. Then, you have to follow these steps:

1. Choose and install an FTP client: You will have to choose one, according to your needs and the budget you are willing to invest. Some of the most popular ones are FileZilla and Cyberduck. We recommend you FileZilla, which is free and easy to use on different operating systems. Once you have chosen it, you can proceed to download it.
2. Find credentials: On the FTP server you should locate your username and password for your FTP account. In addition, permissions and access restrictions should have already been configured. You will have to enter these credentials in the FTP client you installed to connect your FTP account.
3. Connect and use the FTP account: Then connect to your FTP account using the username and password you found on the FTP server. Now you can transfer files by dragging and dropping them.

With SW Hosting, you have at least one FTP account in all Hosting and Cloud plans, in fact, in the Advanced Hosting plan you have unlimited FTP accounts. In addition, we have a tutorial/manual that explains in detail and with images how to create an FTP user account from your SWPanel, click here to read it.

How to use an FTP account

Once you have your FTP account set up, it's time to start using it to transfer your files and data, which is easy. Here's a a quick overview of how you can use your FTP account:

1. Open and browse the FTP account: Once you have connected to your FTP account, you can browse your files and folders. When you do so, you will see a list of files and folders on the FTP server screen.
2. Transfer files: To transfer files you can simply drag and drop the files you want to transfer from your computer to the FTP server. Also, you can do it the opposite way, in other words, transfer files from the server to the computer. And don't worry, you can transfer several files at once to save time.
3. Manage files and folders: You can manage your files and folders on the FTP server. For example, you can create, delete, rename and move files and folders as needed, how and when you want. Important, when you are done, close the connection to avoid possible security risks.

Besides, we have two tutorials/manuals to discover more features, or rather, to know a little more in depth how to use your FTP account. One is about how to modify the destination directory of your FTP account from your SWPanel, click here to read it. Finally, the second one explains in a concise way and with images, how to add the FTP data in WordPress, if you want to discover it click here.

How to protect an FTP account

After learning how to set up and use your FTP account to transfer important files and data, it is now time to learn how you can protect it. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use strong passwords: Change your passwords regularly, and make them long and complex, so that they are difficult to guess or crack. Also, avoid using the same password for different accounts, in order not to compromise your security. You can use password management software to help you create and manage passwords.
• Use a secure connection: It is important that you use SFTP or FTPS protocol, rather than unencrypted FTP, to connect to your FTP account. In this way, your data will be protected against possible external threats and vulnerabilities.
• Limit access to the FTP account: If you limit access to your FTP account to only those users who really need it, you will have control over who transfers files and avoid potential security risks. Just in case, create additional user accounts for each user who needs access to your FTP account.
• Use a firewall: This allows you to control network traffic in and out of your FTP account. This will limit unauthorized access to your FTP account and ensure the security of your data.
• Make backup: You can use an automatic backup service, so that backups are made periodically of the files and data you want.

If you have contracted a Hosting with us and you need to know how to stop any FTP service, we have a manual/tutorial for this. This explains how you can do it in a simple and fast way from your SWPanel, click here to know it.

Conclusion

As you can see, an FTP account is a useful and valuable tool for accessing and sharing files and data in an online environment. However, this tool also comes with certain security risks, so you need to take measures to protect it. For example, use a secure connection, set secure passwords, limit access to your account, among others.

Finally, if you liked this blog, please share it with your friends and colleagues. Also, if you have any questions about FTP accounts or if there is something specific you would like us to discuss, do not hesitate to let us know in the comments on social media.

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