Connect via FTP to your store's server

We will see how to use FileZilla to connect via FTP (File Transfer Protocol) to your server. FileZilla is a very popular free and open-source FTP client, which 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 begin, you must have FileZilla installed on your computer. Here's how to do it:

• Visit the official FileZilla site 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 is installed, you must 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 will find this information on your host's interface).

• Select the authentication type (usually 'Request Password') and enter your FTP/SFTP username.

• Enter your FTP password when prompted.

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

• Click on 'Connection' to test if everything is working correctly.

Step 3: Transfer files

After establishing 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 configuring transfer speed limits.

On the left of the interface, you will find the local folders and files, stored on your computer:

The right of the interface corresponds to the folders and files hosted on the server to which you are connected:

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

You can also directly edit a file 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, your file will then open:

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

Go back to FileZilla, you will see that a window has opened, asking you if you want to send the changes to the server:

Click yes. Your file is now properly updated on your server.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I can't log in?

• Check that you have entered the server details, username, and password correctly.
• Make sure your host does not have IP restrictions or specific configuration requirements.
• Try temporarily disabling your firewall or antivirus to see if that resolves the issue.

Is it safe to use FTP to transfer my files?

• FTP itself is not secure because the information is transmitted in plain text. It is recommended to use FTPS or SFTP if your server supports it, to encrypt the 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 hosting provider's interface.

⚠️ This article has been translated automatically