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 for transferring 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

Feature FTP SFTP
Encryption No Yes (SSH)
Port 21 22
Security Basic High
Speed Fast Slightly slower

Recommendation: Use SFTP whenever possible for better security.

Creating an FTP account

Step 1: Log in to DirectAdmin

  1. Go to the Theory7 DirectAdmin login portal
  2. Enter your username and password
  3. Click on Log in

Step 2: Navigate to FTP Management

  1. Look for FTP or FTP Accounts in the menu
  2. Click on FTP Management or FTP Accounts
  3. You will see an overview of existing FTP accounts

Step 3: Create a new FTP account

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

    3. FTP username: Choose a clear name
    Example: `webmaster`, `developer`, `backup`
    The full username will be: `ftpname@yourdomain.nl`

    Password: Generate a strong password
    Use the Random button for a secure password
    Minimum 12 characters with uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols

    FTP directory: The folder this account has access to
    `/domains/yourdomain.nl/public_html` - full access
    `/domains/yourdomain.nl/public_html/uploads` - uploads only

  3. Click on Create or Aanmaken

Step 4: Note the details

After creation, you will need:

  • FTP server: ftp.yourdomain.nl or the IP address
  • Username: ftpname@yourdomain.nl
  • 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 the connection

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

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

  5. Click on 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

Changing the password

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

Changing the directory

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

Deleting an FTP account

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

Understanding the folder structure

/domains/yourdomain.nl/
├── public_html/          ← Here are your website files
│   ├── index.php
│   ├── wp-content/
│   └── ...
├── private_html/         ← Private files
├── logs/                 ← Access logs
└── stats/                ← Statistics

Important: Always upload your website files to `public_html`.

Common issues

Cannot connect

  1. Check details: Is the 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 may be blocked

Access denied

  • Check if you are using the correct directory
  • Verify that the FTP account exists
  • Check if the password is correct

File upload failed

  • Disk space 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:

  • Safer than standard FTP
  • Access via command line
  • 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 necessary folders
  4. Change regularly: Change passwords periodically
  5. Clean up accounts: Remove unused FTP accounts

Need help?

We are here for you! Are you facing any issues or do you have questions? Our support team is happy to assist you personally. Send us a message via the ticket system - we usually respond within a few hours and are happy to help.