FTP is ideal for quick file transfers, while SSH offers secure command-line control for advanced tasks. It guides users through setup steps, recommends secure practices like using FTPS and SSH keys, and stresses the importance of access controls, monitoring, and credential updates to maintain a secure and efficient hosting environment.

When managing website files via a hosting panel, you may face problems with flexibility and control over site management. FTP and SSH access are the right tools for uploading, editing, and securing files critical at the server level by developers, administrators, and site owners.

FTP is best for transferring structured files, and SSH is meant for encrypted command-line control, which is why it’s the most common method for securely updating and making diagnostic analysis.

This blog explores how to set up both FTP and SSH access for your website. It will walk you through configuration steps and security best practices.

Why Use FTP?

FTP is a popular protocol that enables rapid, direct file management between the local environment and the web server. It attempts to upload a new theme or a plugin, change a configuration file, work with media assets, or even download logs for debugging.

FTP gives you control beyond what browser-based interfaces provide and is a must-have in the toolbox of any developer or administrator working on dynamic websites.

However, FTP by default is not encrypted. Using plain FTP over insecure networks exposes your login credentials and data. To safeguard transfers, always use FTPS, which encrypts the session using SSL or TLS.

Read More: What Is An FTP Server? Overview and How It Works

How to Set Up FTP Access?

To configure FTP access securely, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log in to Your Hosting Control Panel (such as cPanel or Plesk).

Step 2: Navigate to the FTP accounts section and create a new FTP user.

  • Assign a unique username and a strong password.
  • Limit access to a specific directory instead of the root.

Step 3: Install a reliable FTP client like FileZilla or WinSCP.

Step 4: Enter the following details in the client:

  • FTP server address
  • Username and password
  • Port number (usually 21)

Step 5: Choose FTPS instead of plain FTP to ensure encrypted file transfers.

Step 6: If behind a firewall or NAT:

  • Make sure the necessary ports are open.
  • Enable Passive Mode in your FTP client.
Pro Tip: Make sure to always opt for FTPS (FTP Secure). It encrypts both the control and data connections to minimise the potential of password theft during transfers.

When to Use SSH?

SSH access is essential for anyone looking to have secure command-line control of the hosting environment. Developers who manage a large-scale or dynamic website may find it particularly useful.

With SSH, one can run commands remotely at the server level, automate deployment pipelines, do advanced debugging, set file permissions, or even go into version control using tools like Git.

On the contrary, FTP is a simple file transfer with no other abilities. SSH communication is encrypted and grants complete backend-level access. This makes it an apt fit for highly complex environments that require speed, high flexibility, and security.

How to Set SSH Access Up?

To set up SSH access correctly, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log in to your hosting control panel and enable SSH access if disabled.

Step 2: On your local system, generate an SSH key pair:

  • Use ssh-keygen on macOS/Linux or PuTTYgen on Windows.

Step 3: Upload the public key to your hosting account’s authorised SSH keys section.

Step 4: Connect via:

  • Terminal (macOS/Linux): ssh [email protected] -p 22
  • PuTTY (Windows): Enter the same connection details.

Step 5: Apply secure practices:

  • Disable root login on the server.
  • Use a non-standard port if your provider supports it.
  • Set strict permissions for your private key file to prevent unauthorised access.
Read More: What Are the Common SSH Commands

Security Tips for FTP and SSH Access

To safely handle website files, employ the following recommended practices:

  • Use Strong Authentication: Set complicated passwords or use SSH key pairs to prevent brute-force attacks.
  • Disable Unnecessary Services: Deactivate FTP access when not in use, and avoid plain FTP altogether.
  • Limit SSH Access by IP: Permit SSH logins from only known IPs by using your firewall rules.
  • Rotate Credentials on a Regular Basis: Replace passwords or regenerate keys as frequently as possible, especially when your team changes.
  • Check the Access Logs: Look at the login histories for failed attempts, strange IP addresses, or accesses during off hours.
  • Use User-Level Permissions: Only assign the directories that the user needs access to, and don’t allow root to log in by default.
Pro Tip: Check logs for irregular access times, unknown IPs, or failed login attempts. Early detection helps prevent breaches.

Conclusion

FTP and SSH access are essential for efficient website file management. While FTP enables fast file transfers, SSH offers deeper server control and encrypted communication. Together, they support everything from updates to debugging.

However, this cannot guarantee safety. Updating credentials regularly, setting up access control, and monitoring activities are all musts if you are looking for a host environment that is both reliable and secure. These can reduce risks and ensure smooth operations of sites to a great extent.

Need a host that offers secure FTP and SSH access with full control? Crazy Domains supports all: plain FTP, encrypted file transfer, and full SSH/SFTP access. We (via cPanel hosting) make managing your site secure and easy using both FTP and SSH.

Get in touch with us and manage your website confidently.