Uploading and Managing Files

Using FTP

So, you've got your website ready to go, and now you need to upload it to your hosting account. The best way to do that? FTP (File Transfer Protocol). FTP is the standard method for transferring files between your computer and your hosting server. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about using FTP, including setting up an FTP account, configuring FileZilla, and uploading your website files.

What is FTP?

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a method for transferring files from your local computer to your hosting server. Think of it like dragging and dropping files between folders on your computer, except one of those folders is on the internet.

To connect to your hosting account using FTP, you'll need:

• An FTP account (which you'll create in your hosting panel)

• An FTP client (we recommend FileZilla)

• Your FTP login credentials (username, password, host, and port)

Step 1: Download and Install FileZilla

FileZilla is a free, open-source FTP client that works on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It's easy to use and fully compatible with our hosting services. You can download it here:

Download FileZilla

Once downloaded, install it like any other program on your system.

Step 2: Create an FTP Account

Before you can connect to your hosting server, you need to create an FTP account.

1. Log into your Media Giant Hosting client area.

2. Click on My Services.

3. Select the hosting plan associated with your domain.

4. Click on FTP Access.

5. You'll see a list of existing FTP accounts. You can add, delete, or modify accounts (except for the default system user).

6. Click Create Account to set up a new FTP user.

7. Fill out the form:

   • Username: Choose a unique FTP username.

   • Password: Set a strong password.

   • Directory: Choose /httpdocs (this is where your website files should go).

8. Save the new FTP account.

Step 3: Set Up FileZilla

Now that you have an FTP account, it's time to connect using FileZilla.

1. Open FileZilla.

2. Click on File > Site Manager.

3. Click New Site and give it a name (e.g., "My Website").

4. Under the General tab, enter your FTP details:

   • Host: Your domain name or server IP (found in your hosting dashboard).

   • Port: Use 21 for FTP or 22 for SFTP (if enabled).

   • Protocol: Select FTP - File Transfer Protocol.

   • Encryption: Choose Use explicit FTP over TLS if available.

   • Logon Type: Set to Normal.

   • Username: Enter the FTP username you created.

   • Password: Enter your FTP password.

5. Click Connect to establish a connection to your server.

Step 4: Upload and Manage Your Website Files

Now that you're connected, it's time to upload or manage your website files.

1. Navigate to the correct directory: Once connected, you'll see two panels:

   • The left panel shows files on your local computer.

   • The right panel shows files on your hosting server.

2. On the right panel, open the /httpdocs folder. This is where your website files should be stored.

3. In the left panel, find the files you want to upload.

4. Drag and drop your website files from the left panel to the /httpdocs folder on the right.

5. FileZilla will begin transferring the files. Once completed, your files are now stored on your hosting account.

To download files, simply reverse the process by dragging files from the right panel (server) to the left panel (your local computer).

Important Notes About Uploading Files

• Do Not Upload Zipped Website Files: Our system does not include a tool to unzip files after upload. You must upload your website’s entire folder structure and individual files uncompressed.

• Ensure Your Files Are in the Right Directory: Website files should always go into the /httpdocs folder. 

• If You Have a MySQL Database: If your website requires a database, you should upload the .sql database file to your hosting account first. This will be covered in a separate article about importing databases.

Troubleshooting FTP Issues

If you run into problems, here are a few things to check:

• Incorrect Login Details: Double-check your username, password, host, and port.

• Firewall Blocking FTP: Some firewalls or antivirus programs block FTP connections. Try disabling them temporarily.

• Passive vs. Active Mode: If you can't connect, go to Edit > Settings > Connection > FTP in FileZilla and switch between Active Mode and Passive Mode.

• Wrong Directory: Make sure you're uploading files into /httpdocs.

• Too Many Failed Login Attempts: If you try logging in multiple times with incorrect credentials, our security system may temporarily block your IP to prevent brute-force attacks. If you start getting connection timeout errors, contact our support team and provide your IP address so we can check if you’ve been blocked and restore access.

If you're still having trouble, contact our support team for assistance.

Conclusion

Using FTP with FileZilla is the easiest and most reliable way to upload and manage files on Media Giant Hosting. This guide has covered setting up your FTP account, configuring FileZilla, and transferring files. If you need help, check our Knowledge Base or open a support ticket—we’re here to help!