How to Create, Manage, Use, and Delete FTP Accounts in cPanel

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) accounts allow you to upload, download, and manage your website files directly on the server. With cPanel, you can easily create, manage, and delete FTP accounts to streamline file management. This article explains everything you need to know about working with FTP accounts in cPanel.

1. What Is an FTP Account?

An FTP account lets you connect to your hosting server using FTP software (like FileZilla or PowerFTP for Android). It provides credentials to securely access your website’s files and folders without needing to log into cPanel.

Why Use FTP?

• Easily upload large files or multiple files at once.
• Update website content without using the cPanel File Manager.
• Manage your website files using an intuitive desktop application.

2. How to Create an FTP Account in cPanel

Follow these steps to create a new FTP account in cPanel:

Step 1: Log in to cPanel

1. Access cPanel by visiting yourdomain.com/cpanel or yourdomain.com:2083.
2. Enter your cPanel username and password.

Step 2: Open the FTP Accounts Section

1. Navigate to the Files section in cPanel.
2. Click on FTP Accounts.

Step 3: Fill in the FTP Account Details

1. Log in: Enter a username for the FTP account (e.g., ftpuser).
2. Domain: Choose the domain for which the FTP account will be created (if you have multiple domains).
3. Password: Enter a strong password or use the Password Generator for added security.
4. Directory: Specify the directory the account will access. For full access to your website’s files, set it to /public_html. To restrict access, enter a specific subdirectory (e.g., /public_html/images).
5. Quota: Set the maximum amount of disk space this FTP user can use, or select Unlimited for no restrictions.

Step 4: Create the Account

Click Create FTP Account. The account will appear under the "FTP Accounts" section below.

3. How to Manage FTP Accounts in cPanel

You can view and manage existing FTP accounts from the FTP Accounts page.

View Account Information

Scroll down to the FTP Accounts section to see all existing accounts. Here, you’ll find:

• Username: The FTP username.
• Path: The directory the account can access.
• Usage: Disk space used by the account.

Change an FTP Account Password

1. Locate the account you want to modify under the "FTP Accounts" section.
2. Click Change Password next to the account.
3. Enter a new password and confirm it.
4. Click Change Password to save.

Change Quota

1. Find the account you wish to update.
2. Click Change Quota.
3. Enter a new quota limit (in MB) or set it to Unlimited.
4. Click Change Quota.

4. How to Use FTP Accounts

After creating an FTP account, you can use it to connect to your server using an FTP client.

Step 1: Download an FTP Client

Popular FTP clients include:

• FileZilla: Free, open-source, and beginner-friendly.
• Cyberduck: Offers an intuitive interface for macOS and Windows.

Step 2: Configure Your FTP Client

To connect, you’ll need the following details:

1. Host: Your domain name or server IP (e.g., ftp.yourdomain.com).
2. Username: The FTP username you created.
3. Password: The password for the FTP account.
4. Port: Use port 21 for standard FTP or port 22 for SFTP.

Step 3: Upload or Manage Files

Once connected, you can upload files, download backups, and modify your website’s files using the FTP client’s drag-and-drop interface.

5. How to Delete an FTP Account in cPanel

Step 1: Go to FTP Accounts

Log in to cPanel and open the FTP Accounts section under the "Files" category.

Step 2: Locate the Account

Scroll down to the FTP Accounts section. Find the account you wish to delete.

Step 3: Delete the Account

1. Click the Delete button next to the account.
2. Choose one of the following options:
   • Delete Account: Removes the FTP account only.
   • Delete Account and Files: Deletes the account and all files in the associated directory.

Caution: If you select “Delete Account and Files,” ensure you have a backup of the directory, as this action is irreversible.

6. Using FTP for Gmail SMTP, IMAP, or Other Applications

You can use FTP alongside applications like Gmail for hosting email attachments or integrating external applications. Set the directory permissions properly to avoid security risks.

7. Common Issues and Solutions

• Connection Error: Verify the hostname, username, password, and port. If issues persist, contact your hosting provider.
• Permission Denied: Check the directory permissions for the FTP account.
• Disk Quota Exceeded: Increase the quota for the account or free up space on your server.

Conclusion

FTP accounts are an essential tool for managing your website’s files with ease and flexibility. cPanel simplifies the process of creating, managing, and deleting FTP accounts, ensuring secure and efficient file handling. Whether you’re updating your website, backing up data, or integrating third-party applications, FTP provides a reliable solution.

If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our support team.