Troubleshooting FTP access issues

Reviewed on February 05, 2025

Problem

I can't connect to my FTP account.

Symptoms

• FTP login fails with an authentication error.
• Your FTP client cannot establish a connection.
• File uploads or downloads are interrupted frequently.

Possible causes

• Incorrect FTP credentials.
• Passive mode is required but not enabled.
• Your firewall or ISP is blocking FTP ports.

Solution

Check your FTP credentials

• Double-check your FTP username, password, and hostname on the hosting panel.
• Ensure you are using the correct protocol (FTP, SFTP) as required by your hosting provider.
• If you recently changed your password, update it in your FTP client.

Enable passive mode

• Some networks require passive mode for FTP connections.
• In your FTP client settings, look for a Connection Mode option and select Passive Mode instead of Active Mode.

Check firewall and network settings

• Ensure port 21 (FTP) is open in your firewall settings.
• Some ISPs block FTP connections; try switching to SFTP (port 22) if available.

Test with an alternative FTP client

• If the issue persists, try using another FTP client (e.g., FileZilla, WinSCP, or Cyberduck) to rule out client-specific problems.

Restart your router and check ISP restrictions

• Restart your router to refresh network settings.
• Contact your ISP to confirm if FTP connections are restricted or blocked.