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Create an FTP account in cPanel

This guide shows how to make an FTP login, so you or a helper can upload files to your website.

cPanel2 min read16 steps2 screenshots

What is FTP?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It is a way to move files between your computer and your web server. You use a small program called an FTP client, such as FileZilla, to do it. An FTP account is a login with its own username and password. You can give a web designer an FTP account without sharing your main cPanel password. Think of it as a spare key that opens only one room.

Steps

  1. Log in to cPanel. Your welcome email has the details, or use the client area.
  2. Under the Files section, click FTP Accounts.
  3. Find the form called Add FTP Account.
  4. Type a name in Log In, for example designer. If you have more than one domain, pick the right one from the drop-down list.
  5. Type a password in Password. Click Generate if you want cPanel to make a strong one. Save it somewhere safe.
  6. Look at the Directory box. This is the folder the user can reach. For one site, it is often public_html. For a limited user, give a folder inside it, such as public_html/blog.
  7. Pick a Quota. This is how much space the user may fill. Choose a number, or Unlimited if you trust the user and your plan allows it.
  8. Click Create FTP Account.

Connect with the new account

  1. On the same page, scroll to FTP Accounts and find the new user.
  2. Click Configure FTP Client. It shows the host name, username and port to use.
  3. Open your FTP client, such as FileZilla.
  4. Enter the host, the full username, the password and the port.
  5. Click Quickconnect.

The full username includes your domain, like designer@yourdomain.com. Always use the full name.

Change a password or delete an account

  1. On the FTP Accounts page, find the account in the list.
    Screenshot: On the FTP Accounts page, find the account in the list.
  2. Click Change Password to set a new password.
  3. Click Delete to remove the account when the job is done.
Warning: Deleting an FTP account may offer to delete its files too. Choose carefully, and take a backup first.

Staying safe

  • Use a strong, unique password.
  • Give each person their own account.
  • Limit the folder access.
  • Prefer secure FTP (SFTP or FTPS) if your plan and client allow it.
  • Delete accounts you no longer need.

Quick recap

  • FTP moves files between your computer and your server.
    Screenshot: FTP moves files between your computer and your server.
  • Open FTP Accounts in cPanel and fill in the login, password, directory and quota.
  • Use the full username to connect.
  • Delete accounts when you no longer need them.