FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a standard network protocol used to transfer computer files from one host to another over a TCP-based network, such as the Internet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use FTP:
1. Choose an FTP Client:
While you can use an FTP client built into your operating system (like the one in Windows), using a dedicated FTP client like FileZilla (available for Windows, macOS, and Linux) or Cyberduck (macOS and Linux) provides more features and better performance.
2. Set up your FTP Client:
- FileZilla:
- Open FileZilla.
- Go to “File” > “Site Manager” > “New Site”.
- Enter your FTP details (Host, Port, Username, Password, and optionally, a comment).
- Click “OK” to save the site.
- Cyberduck:
- Open Cyberduck.
- Go to “Open Connection” > “FTP – File Transfer Protocol”.
- Enter your FTP details (Server, Port, Username, Password).
- Click “Connect”.
3. Connect to your FTP Server:
- FileZilla:
- In the “Site Manager”, select your site and click “Connect”.
- Enter your password if prompted.
- Cyberduck:
- Click “Connect” in the “Open Connection” window.
- Enter your password if prompted.
4. Navigate the Remote Server:
Once connected, you’ll see the remote server’s file structure on the right side of the FTP client. Navigate through the folders to find the location where you want to upload or download files.
5. Upload Files:
- FileZilla:
- Drag and drop files from your local computer to the remote server.
- Alternatively, right-click on the remote folder, select “Upload” > “Files” or “Upload” > “Directories”, and select the files or folders you want to upload.
- Cyberduck:
- Drag and drop files from your local computer to the remote server.
- Alternatively, right-click on the remote folder, select “Upload” > “Files” or “Upload” > “Directories”, and select the files or folders you want to upload.
6. Download Files:
- FileZilla:
- Drag and drop files from the remote server to your local computer.
- Alternatively, right-click on the remote file, select “Download” > “Download”, and choose the destination on your local computer.
- Cyberduck:
- Drag and drop files from the remote server to your local computer.
- Alternatively, right-click on the remote file, select “Download” > “Download”, and choose the destination on your local computer.
7. Disconnect:
- FileZilla:
- Go to “File” > “Disconnect” or click the “Disconnect” button.
- Cyberduck:
- Go to “File” > “Disconnect” or click the “Disconnect” button.
That’s it! You’ve now successfully used FTP to transfer files between your local computer and a remote server.