Quick answer
For eligible Interactive Online accounts, use SFTP to transfer files and SSH to run permitted shell commands. FTP access is retired. FTPS is FTP over TLS, a separate encrypted protocol that does not connect to an SSH/SFTP service. An approved cPanel API operation can serve a different control-panel task. Check the account's actual capability before choosing a method.
Before you start
Obtain the correct connection details from your service. A retired FTP subaccount cannot sign in through the cPanel account's SFTP connection. Use the eligible account identity and authorized key. File Manager availability also does not prove that SFTP or API file operations are enabled.
What to do
- For a reviewed file upload, select SFTP in the transfer client and follow the assigned server/port and key instructions. A file-transfer task does not itself require running shell commands.
- For tests, WP-CLI, or controlled deployment commands, confirm SSH/shell support and use the account identity rather than root.
- For control-panel automation, review the exact UAPI function and token capability, then test a harmless read before a write.
- Keep connection settings for these protocols separate in the assistant's project notes, with no credentials in the notes themselves.
Check the result
Verify the transferred file or specific API result and inspect the actual website. A successful login to one protocol does not prove the other interfaces are configured.
If something does not work
If a client reports a protocol mismatch, recheck the selected protocol and port. Do not downgrade to unencrypted FTP or reuse the billing account password to solve a hosting-tool configuration problem.
Related help
- Use SFTP with the assigned hosting endpoint
- Use an authorized SSH terminal connection
- Replace retired FTP-account workflows
- Review a cPanel API operation and token
- Use narrow WordPress application access when appropriate
Official references
Reviewed October 31, 2026. Interfaces, vendor availability, and account features can change. Check your current account before making changes.
