Here's how to use FileZilla to connect to your server via FTP (File Transfer Protocol). FileZilla is a popular, free, open-source FTP client that makes it easy to transfer files between your local machine and your web server - an essential skill for any merchant wishing to manage their PrestaShop store independently.

 

Step 1 : Download and install FileZilla

To get started, you need to have FileZilla installed on your computer. Here's how it works:

• Visit the official FileZilla website at https://filezilla-project.org/ to download the latest version of the FileZilla client.

• Choose the FileZilla Client version that corresponds to your operating system (Windows, Mac or Linux).

• Download the installation file and run it.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

  

Step 2 : Configure the FTP/SFTP connection

Once FileZilla has been installed, you need to configure your FTP connection to access your server:

• Lancez FileZilla and access the Site Manager by clicking on 'File' then 'Site Manager'.

• Click on 'New site' and give your site a name.

• Enter the server address in the 'Host' field.

• Choose 'FTP - File Transfer Protocol' as protocol' or 'SFTP - SSH File Transfer Protocol' as protocol, depending on the protocol supported by your host (you'll find this information on your host's interface).

• Select the authentication type (usually 'Ask for password') and enter your FTP/SFTP username.

• Enter your FTP password when prompted.

• You can choose to configure other parameters such as port (usually 21 for FTP) and connection type (recommended: 'Use explicit FTP connection over TLS if available' for added security).

• Click on 'Connection' to check that everything is working correctly.

Step 3 : transfer files

Having established the connection, you can now transfer files between your computer and your server. If necessary, explore FileZilla's advanced features such as transfer queue management, file filters and transfer speed limit configuration.

 

On the left-hand side of the interface, you'll find the local folders and files stored on your computer:

 

 

The right-hand side of the interface shows the folders and files hosted on the server to which you are connected:

You can transfer file(s) from your computer to your server (or vice versa) by dragging and dropping them.

 

You can also edit a file directly on your server by right-clicking on it, then View/Edit :

You can choose to open the file with your default text editor, or select the application of your choice. Here we choose Sublime Text, a lightweight code editor (see how to install this tool in our dedicated article).

Click OK, and your file will open:

You can make your changes there, then save them by clicking on File / Save ( or Ctrl + S on Windows, Cmd + S on Mac).

Return to FileZilla, and you'll see that a window has opened, asking you if you want to send the changes to the server:

Click on Yes. Your file is now updated on your server.

 

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I can't connect?

• Check that you have entered the server details, user name and password correctly.
• Make sure your hosting provider has no IP restrictions or specific configuration requirements.
• Try temporarily disabling your firewall or antivirus software to see if this solves the problem.

Is it safe to use FTP to transfer my files?

• FTP itself is not secure, as information is transmitted in clear text. We recommend using FTPS or SFTP, if your server supports it, to encrypt data transmitted between your computer and the server. Note that the ports for FTP and SFTP are not the same. You can find this information on your host's interface.