What is a FTP ?

FTP stands for File Transfer Program, as you can tell by it’s name, it is used to transfer files.  FTP is the most secure and easy way to exchange data over the internet.  My personal definition of FTP is; “To transfer a file from one computer to another”.

In our case, it is used to transfer our files to the host computer, you can use a FTP Program to make it easy and simple.  For my needs, I use WS_FTP and I would recommend it to anyone who needs a FTP program.

How does FTP work ?

There is basically 5 steps to performing FTP.
Step 1: Connect to the internet. (Just as you would if you were browsing)
Step 2: Start WS_FTP Program. (You can find this program in the Start menu, under All Programs, in the program group called IPSwitch Ws_ftp).
Step 3: Establish a connection to a file resource. (You may need to create a connection profile if this is the first time that you have used WS FTP)
Step 4; Download or Upload your files
Step 5: End the Session

How to use FTP on Internet Explorer

Using FTP on internet explorer is one of the most easiest things you can do. You can NOT use Ftp on Internet Explorer 7 or higher.   However, you can still get around this and access Ftp through your computer, open up My Documents, or My computer and follow the process below from Step #2.

#1- Run Internet Explorer.

#2-Go to the address bar and type: ftp://name-of-your-site.com

#3-Enter your FTP Client password information.

#4-If you’re a Windows server user go to the folder named “HttpDocs” / If you use a Linux based hosting, go to folder named “Public_Html”

#5-Upload your files to this directory. After you are done, go to http://www.name-of-your-site.com and check out what you just uploaded.