How to set maximum FTP connection limit via WHM?

Limiting the maximum number of FTP connections helps prevent server resource exhaustion caused by too many simultaneous FTP sessions. This is especially important on shared hosting servers. This guide shows you how to configure the FTP connection limit in WHM.

Step 1: Log in to WHM

Open your browser and navigate to https://your-server-ip:2087. Log in with your root credentials.

Step 2: Navigate to FTP Server Configuration

In the WHM sidebar, go to Home » Service Configuration » FTP Server Configuration.

Step 3: Set the Maximum Connections

The interface will display settings based on your FTP server (Pure-FTPd or ProFTPD):

• Pure-FTPd: In the Maximum Connections text box, enter the maximum number of concurrent FTP connections the server should allow. This limit applies server-wide.
• ProFTPD: In the Maximum Number of FTP Processes text box, enter the maximum number of active processes. Since each connection creates a process, this effectively limits the total number of FTP connections. Enter none to disable the limit.

Step 4: Set Per-IP Limits (Pure-FTPd only)

If using Pure-FTPd, you can also set Maximum Connections Per IP Address to prevent a single client from consuming all available FTP slots. Enter the desired number in the text box.

Step 5: Save Changes

Click Save to apply your settings. The FTP server will restart automatically with the new configuration.

Important Notes

• The FTP Server Configuration interface is only available when FTP services are enabled on your server. Enable them under Home » Service Configuration » Service Manager if needed.
• A reasonable default for shared hosting is 50–100 maximum connections, with 5–10 connections per IP address.
• Setting the limit too low may cause "Too many connections" errors for legitimate users during peak times.
• Pure-FTPd stores its configuration in /etc/pureftpd.conf.

Troubleshooting

• Users getting "Too many connections" errors: Increase the maximum connections value. Also check if a single IP is consuming too many slots and adjust the per-IP limit accordingly.
• FTP server not responding after changes: Restart the FTP service under Home » Service Configuration » Service Manager, or run /usr/local/cpanel/scripts/restartsrv_ftpd via SSH.
• FTP Server Configuration page not loading: Ensure FTP services are enabled in the Service Manager.

For more information, see the official cPanel documentation on FTP Server Configuration.