SmartFTP is a desktop application facilitating connections between a local host (your computer) and a remote server (your website). How to configure a site in SmartFTP is a straightforward process, however this article assumes you have already installed SmartFTP and it is running on your computer, and that you have not as yet connected to the remote hosting server. (Download the free SmartFTP application.)
Here is the Knowledgebase on How to Upload Files on SmartFTP.
Steps to Configure a Site in SmartFTP
1. Open SmartFTP and click on “Favorites” in the menu.
2. Select “Edit Favorites” from the dropdown menu.
3. Click on the “New Folder” icon and enter the name for it.
4. While keeping the folder selected, click on the “New Favorite” icon.
5. Add any necessary details for reference.
6. Enter a name or label for the new site (for your reference) and input the Host Address.
7. If needed, specify a particular path on the remote server and provide the Username and Password for the hosting account.
NOTE: The host address can be in various forms like ftp.yourdomain.com, yourdomain.com, or an IP address.
8. Once configured, close the Favorites window.
9. Access your Favorites to connect to the website, hover over the folder containing your site and click on the new site label to connect.
You’ve successfully connected to your website via FTP.
You will notice a computer icon with a red square which indicates that you are successfully connected to the remote server:
10. To disconnect, just click on that same icon and it will change to its default colours thereby indicating that you are no longer connected to the remote server..
You’ve now successfully configured your website in SmartFTP, enabling FTP connection. This concludes the tutorial, providing you with the necessary steps to establish an FTP connection using SmartFTP.
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Additional Information
Configuring your website in SmartFTP is important to establish a connection between your local computer and a remote server, typically your website’s hosting server. By configuring your site in SmartFTP, you can efficiently manage file transfers, updates, and other tasks related to your website’s files and directories.
This enables seamless communication between your local environment and the remote server, enabling you to maintain and update your website effectively.
Benefits of Setting up Your Site in SmartFTP:
Manage Multiple Websites
SmartFTP enables you to configure and manage connections to multiple websites, making it convenient for web developers and administrators who work on several projects simultaneously.
Transfer Files Securely
The platform also supports secure file transfer protocols such as FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS) and SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol), enhancing security by ensuring that your data is encrypted during transmission.
Schedule Automated Tasks
With SmartFTP you can schedule automated tasks such as file transfers, backups, and synchronization, saving time and effort in managing your website.
Monitor Transfer Progress
The Transfer Queue panel in SmartFTP offers real-time updates on file transfer progress, allowing you to track the status of uploads and downloads conveniently.
Troubleshoot Connectivity Issues
Setting up your website in SmartFTP makes it easier to diagnose connectivity difficulties by giving you access to extensive logs and error messages that will help you resolve them quickly.