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How to upload files to your website by using FTP or cPanel File Manager

Introduction:


Managing and updating your website requires efficient methods for uploading files. Whether adding new content, updating existing files, or transferring media files, having a reliable and user-friendly approach is essential.


This article will explore two options for uploading files to your website: using any FTP client and utilizing cPanel's "File Manager." We will guide you through the step-by-step process of each method, empowering you to choose the approach that best suits your needs.


Whether you prefer the flexibility and control of an FTP client or the convenience of cPanel's built-in tool, you'll have the necessary knowledge to upload files and keep your website up to date.


Part 1: Uploading Files to Your Website Using FTP


When it comes to managing your website, one of the essential tasks is uploading files. Whether adding new content, updating existing files, or transferring large media files, using a reliable and efficient method is crucial. One popular method is using an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client. In this part of the article, we will guide you through uploading files to your website using any FTP client.


Step 1: Obtain FTP Connection Details. You'll need to gather information about your FTP connection to get started. This includes the FTP server address, username, password, and port number. Typically, this information is provided by your web hosting provider. If you can't find it, contact their support team, who will assist you.


Step 2: Choose an FTP Client. Several FTP clients are available, both free and paid that you can use to upload files. Some popular options include FileZilla, Cyberduck, and WinSCP. Choose the client that suits your operating system and preferences, then download and install it on your computer.


Step 3: Configure the FTP Client. Launch the FTP client and navigate to the settings or preferences section. You'll need to enter the FTP connection details you obtained earlier here. Fill in the respective fields' server address, username, password, and port number. You may also have the option to choose between FTP or SFTP (Secure FTP) protocols. Once you've entered the details, save the configuration.


Step 4: Connect to the FTP Server. Now that your FTP client is configured, you can connect to the FTP server. Click on the "Connect" or "Quick Connect" button in your FTP client's interface. The client will use the data provided to connect to the server.


Step 5: Navigate to the Website Directory. Once connected, you'll see the remote file system of your web server on one side of the FTP client interface. On the other side, you'll see the file system of your local computer. Locate the directory on the remote side where you want to upload your files. This is typically the "public_html" or "www" directory, which is the root folder for your website.


Step 6: Upload Files To upload files to your website, select the files or directories from your local computer and drag them to the appropriate directory on the remote side of the FTP client interface. Alternatively, you can right-click the selected files and choose the "Upload" option. The FTP client will transfer the files from your computer to the web server.


Step 7: Verify the Upload After the file transfer is complete, you can verify that the files have been successfully uploaded. You can do this by visiting your website and checking if the new files are visible and accessible. It's also a good practice to check the file permissions and ensure they are set correctly for the uploaded files.


Part 2: Uploading Files to Your Website Using cPanel's "File Manager"


Another option for uploading files to your website is utilizing the built-in "File Manager" feature in cPanel. cPanel control panel is widely used as it allows website administrators to quickly and intuitively manage their sites. Here's how to use cPanel's "File Manager" to upload files.


Step 1: Access cPanel Login to your web hosting account and navigate to the cPanel dashboard. You can usually find a link to cPanel in your account management area or by appending "/cpanel" to your domain name (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com/cpanel).


Step 2: Locate and Open "File Manager" Once in the cPanel dashboard, search for the "File Manager" icon or link. Click on it to launch the "File Manager" interface.


Step 3: Navigate to the Website Directory. In the "File Manager," you'll see the file system of your web server. Select the folder to which you need to transfer files. This is typically the "public_html" or "www" directory.


Step 4: Upload Files In the "File Manager," you'll find an "Upload" button or option. Click on it, and a file upload dialog will appear. Select the files or directories you want to upload from your local computer by clicking the "Browse" or "Choose File" button. Once you've selected it, click the "Upload" or "Submit" button to start the upload process.


Step 5: Verify the Upload After the files have been uploaded, you can verify their presence by navigating to the appropriate directory in the "File Manager." You should see the newly uploaded files listed there. You can also visit your website to ensure the files are accessible and working as intended.


Conclusion


Uploading files to your website is fundamental in web development and content management. In this article, we explored two methods: using an FTP client and cPanel's "File Manager." Whether you prefer the flexibility and power of an FTP client or the simplicity of the built-in "File Manager" in cPanel, you can now easily upload files to your website. Pick your best approach, and then update and improve your website.


Useful links / Resources


  • How to Upload Files with FTP (cPanel)

  • File Manager manual (cPanel)

  • cPanel publishing your website files guide (in Spanish)

  • cPanel publishing your website files guide (in Portuguese)

  • Go back to Web750