Learn to connect to your WPCloud hosting via SFTP or FTPS, manage FTP users, and securely transfer files.
Prerequisites
- Your WPCloud cPanel login credentials.
- An FTP client (e.g., FileZilla, Cyberduck for Mac).
Detailed Content
WPCloud offers two secure methods for file transfer: SFTP and FTPS.
- SFTP: This method uses SSH (Secure Shell) to encrypt both your login credentials and the data being transferred, providing a highly secure connection. SFTP access is only available using your primary cPanel username and password.
- FTPS: This method uses SSL/TLS encryption to secure your connection. It’s available for additional FTP users you create.
Why the Distinction?
Limiting SFTP access to the primary cPanel user enhances security. It ensures that only the account owner has full access via the most secure protocol. Additional FTP accounts, while still secure via FTPS, have restricted permissions as defined by the primary account holder.
Finding Your Server IP Address
Your server’s IP address is crucial for establishing a connection. You can find it within your cPanel account:
- Log in to your cPanel account.
- Look for the Shared IP Address displayed on the right-hand side of the cPanel interface.
If you cannot locate your IP address, please contact our support team for assistance.
Setting Up Additional FTP Users (for FTPS Access)
- Log in to your cPanel account.
- Navigate to the Files section and click on FTP Accounts.
[Insert Image — Alt: “cPanel FTP Accounts page.”] - Fill in the Username, Password, and Directory fields. The Directory specifies which folder the new FTP user can access. For access to your WordPress files, typically you would use
/public_html. - Click Create FTP Account.
Connecting via SFTP (using your primary cPanel credentials)
- Choose an SFTP Client: We recommend FileZilla (Windows, macOS, Linux). For Mac users, Cyberduck is a popular option. Download and install your chosen client.
- Open your SFTP client and enter the following information:
- Host:
sftp://YOUR-SERVER-IP-ADDRESS(ReplaceYOUR-SERVER-IP-ADDRESSwith your server’s IP address) - Username: Your primary cPanel username.
- Password: Your primary cPanel password.
- Port: Leave this field blank or use the default 22.
- Host:
- Connect: Click the Connect button. Your client may ask you to trust the server’s certificate. It’s generally safe to accept this.
- Once connected, you’ll see your server’s file structure. Your WordPress files are located in the
public_htmldirectory.
Connecting via FTPS (using an additional FTP user)
The process is very similar to SFTP, but you’ll use the FTPS protocol and the credentials of the additional FTP user you created.
- Open your FTP client.
- Enter the following information:
- Host:
ftps://YOUR-SERVER-IP-ADDRESS(ReplaceYOUR-SERVER-IP-ADDRESSwith your server’s IP address) - Username: The username of the additional FTP account.
- Password: The password of the additional FTP account.
- Port: Leave this field blank.
- Host:
- Connect as with SFTP.
Important Notes:
- WPCloud is a WordPress-only hosting provider. Uploading files or scripts unrelated to WordPress is not permitted.
- For questions regarding the functionality of your FTP client (FileZilla, Cyberduck, etc.), please consult the client’s documentation or support resources directly. WPCloud support is limited to server-side issues.
- If you encounter any issues connecting or have questions about your WPCloud hosting, please don’t hesitate to contact our support team through the support portal or via email at support@wpcloud.ca.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Issue: “Connection timed out.”
Solution: Check your internet connection, firewall settings, and ensure you’re using the correct IP address. Contact support if the issue persists. - Issue: “Incorrect username or password.”
Solution: Double-check your credentials. If you’ve forgotten your password, you can reset it through your cPanel account or contact support.
Download Links
Support Options
Contact our 24/7 support team via the support portal or email: