FileZilla Troubleshooting Guide

Fix common errors and connection problems

Experiencing issues with FileZilla? This comprehensive troubleshooting guide covers the most common FileZilla errors and connection problems, with step-by-step solutions to get you back up and running quickly.

🔍 Quick Diagnostics Checklist

Before diving into specific errors, check these common causes:

Internet connection is working
Server details (host, username, password) are correct
Firewall isn't blocking FileZilla
Using the correct port (21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP)
Server is online and accessible
FileZilla is up to date

Common FileZilla Errors

🔌

FileZilla Cannot Connect / Connection Timeout

Fix "connection timed out" and "cannot connect to server" errors

View solution →
🔐

Authentication Failed / Login Error

Resolve username/password and authentication errors

View solution →
⚡

Passive vs Active Mode Problems

Fix FTP mode issues and directory listing problems

View solution →
🔒

SSL/TLS Certificate Errors

Resolve SSL, TLS, and certificate verification errors

View solution →
📁

Transfer Failed / Incomplete Transfers

Fix failed uploads, downloads, and incomplete file transfers

View solution →
⛔

Permission Denied Errors

Resolve file and folder permission issues

View solution →

Error Categories

🔴 Connection Errors

  • • Connection timeout
  • • Cannot connect to server
  • • Connection refused
  • • Network unreachable

🟠 Authentication Errors

  • • Login failed
  • • Invalid username/password
  • • Access denied
  • • Key authentication failed

🟡 Transfer Errors

  • • Transfer failed
  • • Incomplete transfer
  • • Permission denied
  • • Disk quota exceeded

General Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check the Message Log

The message log at the top of FileZilla shows detailed error messages. Look for specific error codes or messages that indicate what went wrong.

2. Verify Server Details

Double-check your host address, username, password, and port. Contact your hosting provider if unsure.

3. Try Different Connection Protocol

If FTP doesn't work, try SFTP (port 22) or vice versa. Some servers only support specific protocols.

4. Check Firewall Settings

Temporarily disable your firewall or add FileZilla to the allowed apps list. Also check router firewall settings.

5. Update FileZilla

Older versions may have bugs or compatibility issues. Update to the latest version via Help → Check for updates.

⚠️ When to Contact Your Hosting Provider

Contact your hosting support if:

  • • You're certain your login details are correct but authentication still fails
  • • The server appears to be down or unreachable
  • • You get "permission denied" errors for actions that should be allowed
  • • Error messages reference server-side issues
  • • You need to verify correct FTP/SFTP settings for your account

📚 Additional Resources

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