Setting up a connection in FileZilla Site Manager Print

Quick answer

Select SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) in FileZilla Site Manager. Enter the assigned server and SSH port, choose Key file and select your local private key for the authorized cPanel account.

Applies to

For FileZilla Client on your own computer and an authorized Interactive Online hosting login. Our file-transfer workflow uses SFTP over SSH; FTP access is retired. Select SFTP, use the assigned server and SSH port, and authenticate as the eligible cPanel account with an authorized key. Legacy FTP-only subaccounts cannot sign in to SFTP. Check the connection guide for your server and port.

Steps

1. Open File > Site Manager and choose New Site. Give it a name that distinguishes the service/account.
2. Set Protocol to SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol). Enter the assigned Host and Port and set Logon Type to Key file. Enter the cPanel username and browse to the local private key whose public key is authorized on the account. Enter its passphrase only through the client's trusted prompt. FTP and FTPS are different protocol choices and do not connect to this SSH/SFTP service.
3. Connect and verify the SSH server host-key fingerprint through an independent trusted source before accepting it. Avoid storing account passwords unprotected on a shared device.

Check the result

Reconnect through the saved entry and confirm the correct account and directory. Test a harmless file transfer before using it for a live update.

Troubleshooting and support

If a saved entry fails, compare its actual protocol/port and full username with the service information. Do not assume the cPanel web port is the SFTP port.

If the problem continues, contact support from the account that owns the service. Include the domain, exact error, time and time zone, tool name, and a redacted screenshot. Keep passwords, private keys, cookies and private message content out of the ticket.

Video tutorial

The original video is preserved. Its interface or product version may differ from the written guidance above.

Related help

• Use FileZilla Quickconnect for a one-time connection
• Upload a reviewed file with cPanel File Manager
• Find the correct document root before an AI tool uploads files
• Import and authorize a public SSH key in cPanel

Official references

• Official FileZilla documentation

Written content reviewed November 1, 2026. Menu availability depends on the product version, permissions and service.