FTP accounts let you upload and manage files using FTP software. Creating a dedicated FTP account is safer than sharing your main cPanel login, especially when working with a developer or designer.
Creating an FTP Account
- Log in to cPanel.
- Open FTP Accounts in the Files section.
- Enter a username and a strong password.
- Set the Directory to limit where the account can go, for example
public_html/clientsite. - Set a quota or leave it unlimited.
- Click Create FTP Account.
Restricting the directory is important so the account can only access the folder it needs, not your entire site.
Connection Details
After creating the account, click Configure FTP Client to see the exact settings. You will typically need:
| Setting | Value | |---|---| | Server / Host | your domain or server hostname | | Username | the full FTP username | | Port | 21 | | Protocol | FTP or FTPS |
Managing Existing Accounts
On the same page you can:
- Change the password of any FTP account.
- Adjust the quota.
- Delete accounts you no longer need.
Always remove FTP accounts once a project is finished, particularly those given to outside contractors.
Security Tips
- Use a unique, strong password for each FTP account.
- Restrict each account to the smallest folder possible.
- Prefer FTPS where your client supports it.
If you are unsure which directory to set, contact support through the /contact page before sharing access.