How to Use FileZilla

Complete beginner's guide to FileZilla FTP client

FileZilla is a free, powerful FTP/SFTP client that makes transferring files between your computer and remote servers simple. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know to use FileZilla effectively, from basic connections to advanced features.

What you'll learn: Interface overview, connecting to servers, uploading/downloading files, managing files, using the Site Manager, and essential tips for beginners.

Before You Start

FileZilla installed on your computer (download here)
Server details from your hosting provider (host, username, password, port)
Internet connection

Understanding the FileZilla Interface

When you first open FileZilla, you'll see several key areas:

1. Quickconnect Bar (Top)

Enter Host, Username, Password, and Port for quick connections without saving details.

2. Message Log

Shows connection status, commands, and responses from the server. Useful for troubleshooting.

3. Local Site (Left Panel)

Your computer's files and folders. Navigate to find files you want to upload.

4. Remote Site (Right Panel)

Files and folders on the remote server. Appears after you connect.

5. Transfer Queue (Bottom)

Shows files being transferred, queued transfers, and transfer history.

Connecting to a Server

Method 1: Quickconnect

Best for one-time connections or testing:

1.
Enter your server's Host (e.g., ftp.example.com or 192.168.1.100)
2.
Enter your Username (provided by your host)
3.
Enter your Password
4.
Enter Port:
- Port 21 for FTP
- Port 22 for SFTP
- Port 990 for FTPS (implicit)
5.
Click Quickconnect

Method 2: Site Manager (Recommended)

Best for servers you'll connect to regularly:

1.
Go to File → Site Manager (or press Ctrl+S)
2.
Click New Site and give it a name (e.g., "My Website")
3.
Configure the connection:
- Protocol: Choose FTP, SFTP, or FTPS
- Host: Your server address
- Port: Usually auto-filled based on protocol
- Logon Type: Select "Normal"
- User: Your username
- Password: Your password
4.
Click Connect

✓ Pro Tip: Use SFTP instead of FTP when possible for encrypted, secure connections.

Uploading Files to Server

There are three ways to upload files:

Method 1: Drag and Drop (Easiest)

Navigate to the local folder (left panel) containing your files
Navigate to the remote destination folder (right panel)
Select files in the left panel
Drag them to the right panel
Watch the transfer queue at the bottom for progress

Method 2: Right-Click Upload

Navigate to your local files (left panel)
Right-click the file(s) you want to upload
Select "Upload"

Method 3: Double-Click

Double-clicking a file in the local pane uploads it to the current remote directory.

Downloading Files from Server

Downloading works the same as uploading, but in reverse:

→Drag and drop from right panel (server) to left panel (local)
→Right-click server files and select "Download"
→Double-click a file in the remote pane to download

Managing Files and Folders

Create Folder

Right-click in remote panel → "Create directory"

Delete Files

Right-click file → "Delete"

Rename Files

Right-click file → "Rename"

Edit Permissions

Right-click file → "File permissions..." (chmod)

Refresh View

Press F5 or click the refresh button

View Hidden Files

Server → Force showing hidden files

Essential Tips for Beginners

💡

Use Bookmarks

Right-click remote folders and "Add bookmark" for quick access to frequently used directories.

💡

Check Transfer Queue

Always watch the bottom panel to ensure transfers complete successfully. Failed transfers appear in red.

💡

Keep FileZilla Updated

Check for updates regularly via Help → Check for updates.

💡

Use Transfer Filters

Edit → Filename filters to exclude specific file types from transfers.

🎓 Ready for More?

Now that you know the basics, explore these advanced topics:

→ Set up SFTP connections (more secure than FTP)
→ Advanced file transfer techniques
→ Security best practices
→ Troubleshooting common errors

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between FTP, SFTP, and FTPS?

FTP is the basic unencrypted protocol. SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) encrypts all data using SSH. FTPS is FTP with TLS/SSL encryption. SFTP is recommended for security.

How do I save connection details in FileZilla?

Use the Site Manager (File → Site Manager) to save server details. This allows quick reconnection without re-entering credentials each time.

Can I transfer multiple files at once?

Yes! Select multiple files or folders and drag them to upload/download. FileZilla queues transfers automatically.

How do I resume an interrupted transfer?

FileZilla automatically tries to resume interrupted transfers. You can also right-click failed transfers in the queue and select "Process Queue".