Knowledge Base

FTP Troubleshooting

If you're having trouble connecting via FTP, follow these steps.

Verify Connection Settings

Use these settings in your FTP client:

• Host: yourdomain.com or server IP
• Username: Your DirectAdmin username
• Password: Your DirectAdmin password
• Port: 21 (FTP) or 22 (SFTP)

Common Issues

1. Connection Refused

• Check you're using the correct port (21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP)
• Ensure FTP service is enabled for your account
• Try using SFTP instead of FTP

2. Authentication Failed

• Double-check username and password
• Reset password in DirectAdmin if needed
• Ensure you're using the main account credentials, not an email address

3. Connection Timeout

• Your IP may be blocked - check with support
• Try switching between Active and Passive mode
• Disable firewall/antivirus temporarily to test

4. Passive Mode Issues

In FileZilla:

1. Go to Edit → Settings
2. Select FTP → Passive mode
3. Check "Fall back to active mode"

5. TLS/SSL Errors

For secure connections:

1. Use Explicit FTP over TLS in your client
2. Accept the server certificate when prompted
3. Or use SFTP (port 22) which uses SSH encryption

Recommended FTP Client Settings (FileZilla)

1. Open Site Manager
2. Create new site with:
   • Protocol: FTP or SFTP
   • Encryption: Use explicit FTP over TLS (for FTP)
   • Logon Type: Normal
3. Under Transfer Settings, set to Passive

IP Blocked?

Too many failed login attempts can trigger an IP block. Contact support with your IP address to have it unblocked.