This guide explains how to create, configure, and manage FTP accounts in cPanel. You will learn how to set up new FTP users, assign directory access, update passwords, and connect using an FTP client.
- Accessing the FTP Accounts Section
- Log in to your cPanel dashboard.
- Scroll to the Files section.
- Select FTP Accounts.
This page lists all existing FTP users and provides tools to create and manage them.
- Creating a New FTP Account
- In the Add FTP Account section, enter a username.
- Choose the domain the FTP account will belong to (if you have more than one).
- Enter and confirm a password, or use the password generator.
- Set the Directory the user should have access to.
- By default, cPanel suggests a folder based on the username.
- You can change this to give access to a specific directory or the entire account.
- Set a Quota (storage limit) or choose Unlimited.
- Click Create FTP Account.
Your new FTP user will now appear in the list below.
- Understanding Directory Access
The directory you assign determines what the FTP user can see and modify.
- Full access: Set the directory to /public_html or / (use with caution).
- Limited access: Set a specific folder, such as /public_html/blog or /public_html/shop.
- Isolated access: Create a dedicated folder for the user, such as /ftpuserfiles.
This is useful when working with developers or giving access to only part of your site.
- Managing Existing FTP Accounts
In the FTP Accounts list, each user has several management options.
Change Password
Update the FTP user's password if it is forgotten or needs to be strengthened.
Change Quota
Increase or decrease the storage limit for the account.
Delete
Remove the FTP account.
You can choose to delete the user only, or delete the user and their files.
Configure FTP Client
This section provides:
- Manual connection details
- Auto-configuration files for popular FTP clients (where supported)
It also shows the correct hostname, port, and encryption settings.
- Connecting With an FTP Client
To connect using an FTP client such as FileZilla, Cyberduck, or WinSCP, you will typically need:
- Host: ftp.yourdomain.com or your server's IP address
- Username: The full FTP username (e.g., user@yourdomain.com)
- Password: The password you set in cPanel
- Port: 21 for standard FTP, or 21/990 for FTPS depending on your client
- Encryption: Use explicit FTP over TLS if available for better security
Once connected, you can upload, download, rename, and manage files on your hosting account.
- Troubleshooting Common FTP Issues
Incorrect Login Details
- Double-check the full FTP username.
- Reset the password if needed.
Cannot Connect to Server
- Ensure your FTP client is set to use FTP or FTPS, not SFTP.
- Try using the server's IP address instead of the domain.
- Check if your firewall or antivirus is blocking the connection.
Permission Denied Errors
- The FTP user may not have access to the directory.
- Edit the account and update the directory path.
Timeouts or Slow Transfers
- Switch the FTP client to Passive Mode.
- Try a different network or disable VPNs temporarily.
