FTP

What Is FTP?

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is one of the oldest internet protocols, designed for transferring files between a local computer and a remote server. According to MDN Web Docs, FTP was the de facto standard way of transferring files for many years.

In the WordPress world, FTP is used to:

• Upload theme and plugin files manually
• Download backups of your site files
• Edit configuration files like wp-config.php and .htaccess
• Troubleshoot issues when you can't access your dashboard (e.g., deactivating a broken plugin by renaming its folder)
• Perform manual WordPress updates or migrations

Important: Standard FTP is insecure — it sends your username, password, and file data unencrypted. Anyone intercepting the connection can read everything. This is why you should always use SFTP instead.

FTP in Practice

To connect via FTP/SFTP, you need:

1. An FTP client — FileZilla is the most popular free option (available for Windows, Mac, Linux)
2. FTP credentials — your host provides these: hostname (usually your domain or an IP), username, password, and port (21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP)

Once connected, you see your server's file structure. Navigate to public_html (or htdocs) to find your WordPress installation with familiar folders: wp-admin, wp-content, and wp-includes.

FTP vs. SFTP:

• FTP — Port 21, unencrypted, insecure. Avoid if possible.
• SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) — Port 22, encrypted, secure. Always use this.

Most modern hosts support SFTP by default. SiteGround, Hostinger, and Bluehost all provide SFTP access. Check your hosting control panel for credentials.

Why It Matters

FTP/SFTP is your emergency exit. When a plugin crashes your site, when the dashboard is inaccessible, when you need to manually edit a file — FTP access lets you fix things directly on the server. Every WordPress site owner should know how to connect via SFTP, even if you rarely need it. See our migration guide and security guide for practical FTP use cases.