Using FileZilla to Transfer Files to Your Hosting Server

Using FileZilla to Transfer Files to Your Hosting Server
Whether you’re launching a new website, updating your current one, or moving files between systems, a reliable method for file transfer is essential. One of the most popular tools for this is FileZilla, a free, open-source FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use FileZilla to transfer files to your hosting server with Vicservers.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- A hosting account with Vicservers
- Your FTP credentials (you can find them in your Vicservers cPanel)
- FileZilla installed on your computer (available for Windows, macOS, and Linux)
- Your website files ready for upload
Step 1: Download and Install FileZilla
- Visit filezilla-project.org
- Download FileZilla Client (not the Server version).
- Install it following the setup instructions for your operating system.
Step 2: Get Your FTP Credentials from Vicservers
Login to your cPanel on Vicservers and find the FTP section.
You’ll need the following information:
- Host/Server: Usually
ftp.yourdomain.com
or your server IP - Username: Your FTP account name
- Password: The one you set or generated
- Port: Usually
21
for FTP, or22
for SFTP (recommended for secure transfer)
If you haven’t created an FTP account yet:
- Go to FTP Accounts in cPanel.
- Click Add FTP Account.
- Set the username, domain, password, and directory access.
- Click Create FTP Account.
Step 3: Connect to Your Server via FileZilla
- Open FileZilla.
- Go to the top bar and enter:
- Host:
ftp.yourdomain.com
- Username: your FTP username
- Password: your password
- Port: 21 (or 22 for SFTP)
- Host:
- Click Quickconnect.
Tip: If you want to save your login details, use the Site Manager (File > Site Manager > New Site).
Step 4: Understanding the FileZilla Interface
Once connected, you’ll see two main panels:
- Left Side (Local Site): Files on your computer
- Right Side (Remote Site): Files on your hosting server
Browse both sides to find the source (your local files) and the destination (e.g. public_html
on your server).
Step 5: Upload Files to Your Hosting Server
- Navigate to your website folder on the left panel.
- On the right panel, go to
public_html
(this is your web root directory). - Select all files you want to upload (usually
index.html
,wp-content
, etc.) - Drag and drop them from the left panel to the right.
✅ That’s it — FileZilla will begin transferring the files.
You can view the progress at the bottom of FileZilla:
- Queued files waiting to upload
- Failed transfers (retry them)
- Successful transfers
Step 6: Download Files from Server (Optional)
Need to back up or download files?
- Navigate to the directory on the right side (server).
- Drag files to the desired location on the left side (your computer).
This is especially useful for:
- Backing up your WordPress site
- Editing files locally
- Transferring content to another host
Step 7: File Management Tips
- public_html is the folder where all public web content should go.
- Upload index.html or index.php to show a homepage.
- Avoid deleting unknown files from the right panel unless you know their function.
- Use the refresh button if you don’t see recent changes.
Common Issues & Fixes
Problem | Solution |
---|---|
Can’t connect | Check FTP credentials and firewall settings |
Timeout errors | Use Passive Mode in Site Manager > Transfer Settings |
Permission denied | Ensure you have write access to the destination directory |
Upload failed | Retry or check if the file already exists and is locked |
Bonus: Use SFTP for Secure Transfers
SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) encrypts your connection, making it safer than plain FTP.
To use SFTP:
- Use Port 22
- Select SFTP – SSH File Transfer Protocol in FileZilla Site Manager
Vicservers supports SFTP on most hosting plans. Contact support if you’re unsure.
Why FileZilla Is Great for Vicservers Clients
- Easy to use, even for beginners
- Works perfectly with Vicservers FTP settings
- Great for manual uploads, backups, and editing
- Supports both FTP and secure SFTP connections
- Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
When Should You Use FileZilla?
- When uploading large amounts of files
- When installing WordPress manually
- When troubleshooting your website
- For migrating sites between servers
- To manage website backups
✅ Final Checklist
Before disconnecting:
- ✔️ Verify that your site loads properly via your domain
- ✔️ Double-check file paths (e.g.
/public_html/index.html
) - ✔️ Remove sensitive files (like
.sql
backups) after you’re done - ✔️ Log out or disconnect FileZilla when finished
Need Help? Vicservers Has Your Back
Our support team is available 24/7 to assist with FTP setup, file transfers, and technical troubleshooting.
📧 Email: support@vicservers.com
🌐 Visit: www.vicservers.com
Vicservers – Fast, secure, and beginner-friendly hosting solutions for Nigeria’s growing digital economy.