Access WordPress Files With SFTP or FTP

A file transfer client lets you browse a site's files like folders on your computer. Use it to upload a custom plugin or theme, edit configuration files, download a backup, or fix a site that will not load.

What you need

Credentials come from your WordPress hosting settings:

1. Click Sites > WordPress and open Advanced Settings for your site.
2. Choose FTP Access.
3. Click Add FTP User and set the credentials, or open an existing user.
4. Note the Host, Port, Username, and Password. Use Reset Password if you do not have the password.

Each user's login is unique. Keep it private and reset it whenever someone who knew it leaves your team. Prefer the secure SFTP connection whenever your settings screen offers it, because it encrypts everything, including your password.

Connect with FileZilla

1. Download and install a client such as FileZilla (free, for Windows, Mac, and Linux). Cyberduck and WinSCP are free alternatives, and Transmit and FlashFXP are paid options.
2. Enter the Host, Username, Password, and Port in the bar at the top.
3. Click Quickconnect.
4. The left pane shows your computer; the right pane shows the website's files. Drag files between them to upload or download.
5. To edit a file, right-click it and choose View/Edit.

Common problems

• Cannot connect: recheck the host, port, and password for typos.
• Timeouts: switch FileZilla to passive transfer mode in its settings.
• Permission denied: reset the FTP user's password or confirm you are using the right user.

If you need help from your team, share your site name, FTP username, and a screenshot of your client settings, but never the password.

Good to know: Download a copy of any file before editing or deleting it, since changes through file access are immediate and cannot be undone.