How to Upload a Website to cPanel Using FileZilla
FileZilla is a free FTP client that allows you to upload website files directly to your cPanel hosting account. This guide explains how to connect using FTP and upload your website correctly.
Before You Begin
Install FileZilla
Download and install FileZilla on your computer.
FTP Details
Make sure you have your FTP hostname, username, and password.
Website Files Ready
Ensure your website files are available on your computer.
FTP Connection Details
Host
ftp.yourdomain.com
Username
yourusername
Password
yourpassword
Port
21
Using SFTP Instead of FTP
Where available, we recommend using SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) rather than traditional FTP. SFTP encrypts your username, password, and file transfers, making it significantly more secure.
Improved Security
SFTP encrypts all data transferred between your computer and the hosting server.
Protects Passwords
Unlike FTP, your login credentials are not transmitted in plain text.
Recommended Method
Most modern hosting providers recommend SFTP whenever it is available.
How to Connect Using SFTP in FileZilla
Step 1: Open Site Manager
In FileZilla click:
File → Site Manager
Step 2: Create a New Site
Click New Site and give the connection a memorable name.
Step 3: Select SFTP
Protocol: SFTP - SSH File Transfer Protocol
Step 4: Enter Connection Details
Host: server.example.com Username: yourusername Password: yourpassword Port: 22
Some hosting providers use custom SFTP ports, so check your welcome email or hosting control panel.
Step 5: Accept the SSH Key
The first time you connect, FileZilla may display the server fingerprint. Verify it and click OK to continue.
Typical Ports
Most hosting providers use one of the following:
FTP = Port 21 SFTP = Port 22
Some DirectAdmin servers may use a custom SFTP port. Always check your hosting welcome email or control panel documentation.
Step-by-Step Upload Process
Step 1: Open FileZilla
Launch FileZilla and enter your FTP connection details at the top of the screen.
Step 2: Connect to Your Hosting
Click Quickconnect and wait for FileZilla to establish a connection.
Step 3: Open public_html
On the right-hand side (remote files), open:
public_html
This is normally where your website files should be uploaded.
Step 4: Upload Your Files
On the left-hand side (local files), browse to your website files.
Drag the files into the public_html folder on the right.
Step 5: Wait for Upload Completion
Allow FileZilla to finish uploading all files before closing the application.
Step 6: Test Your Website
Open your website in a browser and confirm everything loads correctly.
Which Files Should Be Uploaded?
HTML Websites
index.html css/ images/ js/
PHP Websites
index.php includes/ assets/
WordPress Sites
wp-admin/ wp-content/ wp-includes/
Important Notes
Don't Upload the Parent Folder
Upload the contents of your website folder rather than the folder itself unless specifically required.
Check Your Homepage
Ensure your website contains an index.html or index.php file.
Overwrite Existing Files Carefully
Uploading files with the same name may replace existing website files.
Common Problems & Fixes
Website Shows Directory Listing
Ensure an index.html or index.php file exists in public_html.
Old Website Still Appears
Clear browser cache and verify files were uploaded into public_html.
Permission Errors
Check file permissions and ownership settings.
Connection Failed
Verify your FTP hostname, username, password, and port number.
Quick Tips
Use SFTP When Available
SFTP encrypts file transfers and is more secure than FTP.
Keep Local Backups
Always keep a copy of your website files on your computer.
Check Upload Queue
Ensure all files have successfully uploaded before testing.
