How to Upload Files to Plesk via FTP

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is one of the fastest ways to upload large numbers of files to your website. This guide covers creating an FTP account in Plesk and connecting with an FTP client.

Step 1: Find your FTP connection details

You will need these details to connect:

• Host: Your domain name (e.g. yourdomain.com) or server IP address (shown at the top of your Plesk dashboard).
• Port: 21 (default FTP port).
• Username & Password: Your Plesk login credentials, or a dedicated FTP account (see below).

Step 2: Create an additional FTP account (optional)

Your main Plesk login already has FTP access. If you need to give someone else access, or restrict access to a specific folder:

1. Log in to Plesk.
2. Go to Websites & Domains > your domain > FTP Access.
3. Click Add an FTP Account.
4. Enter an FTP account name (this becomes the username).
5. Set the Home directory — click the folder icon to browse. Select httpdocs to give access to the website root only.
6. Set a strong password. You can click Generate to create one automatically.
7. Click OK.

Step 3: Connect with an FTP client

We recommend FileZilla (free, available for Windows, Mac, and Linux). Download it from filezilla-project.org.

1. Open FileZilla.
2. In the Quickconnect bar at the top, enter:
   • Host: your domain name or server IP
   • Username: your FTP username
   • Password: your FTP password
   • Port: 21
3. Click Quickconnect.
4. If prompted about a certificate, click OK to accept it.
5. On the left panel, navigate to the files on your computer. On the right panel, navigate to httpdocs (your website root).
6. Drag files from left to right to upload, or right to left to download.

Important notes

• Use FTPS when possible. Standard FTP sends data unencrypted. Most FTP clients support FTPS (FTP over TLS) — select it in your connection settings for better security.
• Upload website files to httpdocs. This is the document root for your domain. Files placed here are publicly accessible via your website URL.
• Large uploads? FTP handles hundreds of files more reliably than the browser-based File Manager.

Troubleshooting

• Connection timed out: Check that your server IP or domain is correct. Ensure port 21 is not blocked by your local firewall or network.
• “Login incorrect” error: Double-check the username and password. If you created a separate FTP account, use that full username (it may include the domain, e.g. [email protected]).
• Files uploaded but website not updating: Make sure you uploaded to the correct directory (httpdocs). Clear your browser cache and try again.
• Can’t delete or overwrite files: Check file permissions. You may need to adjust them in Plesk File Manager.