Why You Need FileZilla

First of all, let me explain what FileZilla is.

It's a simple (and free) means of uploading a file from your computer to a folder on your website, using FTP (File Transfer Protocol). It's a fast interface that looks a lot like Microsoft's File Explorer, so you should feel right at home with it.

But why do you need to upload files to your website?

Well, in the early days of your website creation, you probably don't. But as you build it up, you will find the need arises. Here are two scenarios where you could need to do this:

  1. You've engaged a 3rd party platform such as GSC (Google Search Console) and they've asked you to verify your site by uploading a file they've given you to your website's root directory. The easiest way to do that is to use FileZilla to upload the file from the Downloads folder on your hard disk to the public_html folder on your website.
  2. You've created an opt-in page on your website and need a simple, cost-free way for your visitors to claim the free gift you've promised them. You load FileZilla, connect to your website and create a new folder. Upload your freebie as a zip file to the new folder and you now have a url link to give your opt-in. When the click on it, the file will download to their computer.


Join the Discussion
Write something…
Recent messages
LindiThorp Premium Plus
Phil I can't connect either. I've set the FTP to passive and tried to connect many times. Error:Status: Connecting to ftp_YFSgFtn0...
Response: fzSftp started, protocol_version=11
Command: open "clthorp59@outlook.com@ftp_YFSgFtn0" 22
Error: ssh_init: nodename nor servname provided, or not known
Error: Could not connect to server

Which is the best port to use–21 or 22?
Reply
feigner Premium
are you using your website url in the first field - it looks like an email address....
should be port 21....
check sitedomains>>settings>>ftp access.....
Reply
LindiThorp Premium Plus
Hi feigner thanks everso for responding.
I think I've got the right url - see screenshot.
Reply
LindiThorp Premium Plus
Still getting this:
Status: Waiting to retry...
Status: Resolving address of ftp_YFSgFtn0
Status: Connection attempt failed with "EAI_NONAME - ノード名も servname も提供されていないか、または不明です".
Error: Could not connect to server

Btw, which password should I use? For FileZilla account or website?
Reply
feigner Premium
ideally you shouldn't give others access to your ftp password and username....
i managed to login with these details....
so hostname - website url
username ftp_......
password ftp password
port 21
quick connect
there will be another screen saying about unsecure content - just accept that one...
and you should get what i did in the image
ps - ask support to change the ftp password after you get in and do what you need to ....will make it secure again
Reply
phil1944 Premium
You shouldn't need to specify port at all.

Just enter your domain name, FTP user name and password from the WA site details. See attached example.
Reply
phil1944 Premium
Check out my latest reply. Sorry about the delay, was flying home yesterday evening. Delayed 2 and a half hours because of bad weather.

It's your FTP username and password.
Reply
LindiThorp Premium Plus
Welcome home Phil. Sorry about your delay!

Thanks for confirming username and pswd. I'll try again today!

Have a good rest today so you can be up and at it for 2024!!

Blessings. So glad you're here!! 😎
Reply
phil1944 Premium
Thanks, Charley. I'm glad I'm here too 😁.
Reply
LindiThorp Premium Plus
💐
Reply
1Rudy1 Premium
Although I'm familiar with using Filezilla, the first of the two scenarios you mentioned is something I had not considered.

I have dropped the GCS verification code into the theme editor folder. I had no idea I could add it to my public_html folder.

The second one I have used to upload my PDF giveaways!

hanks for providing this training, Phil!

Rudy
Reply
phil1944 Premium
You're welcome, Rudy. I consider FileZilla an essential tool, so I'm always surprised when a member here tells me they've never heard of it.
Reply
RCanty Premium Plus
Great breakdown, Phil! I have not used Filezilla in years.

Canty
Reply
phil1944 Premium
I use it constantly. Thanks, Canty.
Reply
keimor Premium Plus
Using FileZilla or the plugin is a personal preference. I prefer to use CyberDuck and used it for years. This was a good overview for using FileZilla.
Reply
phil1944 Premium
I'll checkout CyberDuck. Thanks.
Reply
Terry1945 Premium Plus
Great tip Phil. Loving your work!
I dont need this just yet but I can absolutrly see how it will be really useful in the near future.
many thanks for sharing.
Terry
Reply
phil1944 Premium
Especially when you've got more than one website.
Reply
Top