FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is the standard method for uploading files to your web hosting. In this guide, we explain how to create and configure FTP accounts in DirectAdmin.

What is FTP?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol and is a method to transfer files between your computer and the web server. With FTP you can:

  • Upload website files
  • Add images and media
  • Install plugins and themes
  • Download backups
  • Edit configuration files

FTP vs SFTP

Property FTP SFTP
Encryption None Yes (SSH)
Port 21 22
Security Basic High
Speed Fast Slightly slower

Recommendation: Use SFTP when possible for better security.

Creating an FTP account

Step 1: Log in to DirectAdmin

  1. Go to Theory7's DirectAdmin login portal
  2. Enter your username and password
  3. Click Login

Step 2: Navigate to FTP Management

  1. Find FTP or FTP Accounts in the menu
  2. Click on FTP Management or FTP Accounts
  3. You'll see an overview of existing FTP accounts

Step 3: Create new FTP account

  1. Click Create FTP Account
  2. Fill in the following fields:

FTP username: Choose a clear name

  • Example: webmaster, developer, backup
  • The full username becomes: ftpname@yourdomain.com

Password: Generate a strong password

  • Use the Random button for a secure password
  • Minimum 12 characters with uppercase, numbers, and symbols

FTP directory: The folder this account can access

  • /domains/yourdomain.com/public_html - full access
  • /domains/yourdomain.com/public_html/uploads - uploads folder only
  1. Click Create

Step 4: Note the details

After creation, you need:

  • FTP server: ftp.yourdomain.com or the IP address
  • Username: ftpname@yourdomain.com
  • Password: the password you set
  • Port: 21 (FTP) or 22 (SFTP)

Configuring FileZilla

FileZilla is a free FTP program for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Step 1: Download FileZilla

  1. Go to filezilla-project.org
  2. Download FileZilla Client (not Server)
  3. Install the program

Step 2: Set up connection

  1. Open FileZilla
  2. Go to File → Site Manager or press Ctrl+S
  3. Click New Site
  4. Enter the details:

Protocol: FTP or SFTP Host: ftp.yourdomain.com Port: 21 (FTP) or 22 (SFTP) Encryption: Use explicit FTP over TLS if available Logon Type: Normal User: ftpname@yourdomain.com Password: your FTP password

  1. Click Connect

Step 3: Upload files

  1. On the left you see your local files
  2. On the right you see the server files
  3. Navigate to public_html on the server
  4. Drag files from left to right to upload
  5. Or right-click and choose Upload

Managing FTP accounts

Change password

  1. Go to FTP Management in DirectAdmin
  2. Click on the FTP account
  3. Enter a new password
  4. Click Modify

Change directory

  1. Go to FTP Management
  2. Click on the FTP account
  3. Change the path in FTP directory
  4. Click Modify

Delete FTP account

  1. Go to FTP Management
  2. Select the account
  3. Click Delete
  4. Confirm the action

Understanding folder structure

/domains/yourdomain.com/
├── public_html/          ← Your website files go here
│   ├── index.php
│   ├── wp-content/
│   └── ...
├── private_html/         ← Private files
├── logs/                 ← Access logs
└── stats/                ← Statistics

Important: Always upload your website files to public_html.

Common problems

Cannot connect

  1. Check credentials: Username and password correct?
  2. Check port: Try port 21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP
  3. Firewall: Allow FTP in your firewall/antivirus
  4. IP block: After too many failed attempts, your IP gets blocked

Access denied

  • Check if you're using the correct directory
  • Verify the FTP account exists
  • Check if the password is correct

File upload failed

  • Disk full: Check your quota in DirectAdmin
  • File too large: Split large files or use SSH
  • Wrong permissions: Check CHMOD settings

Slow transfer

  • Use fewer simultaneous connections (max 2-3)
  • Try binary transfer instead of ASCII
  • Check your internet speed

FTP alternatives

File Manager in DirectAdmin

For small tasks, you can use the built-in File Manager:

  1. Go to File Manager in DirectAdmin
  2. Navigate to public_html
  3. Use the upload function

SSH/SFTP

For developers:

  • More secure than standard FTP
  • Command line access
  • Use tools like WinSCP or Terminal

Security tips

  1. Strong passwords: Use the password generator
  2. Use SFTP: Encrypted connection
  3. Limited access: Give accounts access only to needed folders
  4. Change regularly: Change passwords periodically
  5. Clean up accounts: Remove unused FTP accounts

Need help?

We're here for you! Running into issues or have questions? Our support team is happy to help you personally. Drop us a message through the ticket system - we usually respond within a few hours and love helping you find the best solution.