Using FTP

What is FTP?

It stands for File Transfer Protocol. It is used to transfer files to websites. You will use it to maintain your class site and hand in assignments. Here's an overview of the process:

  • You will create a folder locally on your computer for this class. It will contain all the files for your site.
  • You will edit and add files to this folder when you want to make changes to your site.
  • You will manually maintain a copy of this folder on the mywebspace server that can be viewed from the web.
  • To update the files on the server, use an FTP program to add new files and overwrite old ones.

How to Use FTP to manage a class site

STEP 1: Editing and testing your site locally
  1. Create a new folder on your computer or download a template zip file provided by the professor.
  2. If you aren't using a template, give the folder a name related to the class (e.g. 140).
  3. If you aren't using a template, create an file called index.html. You can use this as a starting point.
  4. Open the index.html file in a text editor like Sublime Text or Brackets. Do this by right-clicking (or control key and clicking on mac) the html file and selecting the text editor name under "Open With".
  5. In the editor, change your name, update any links needed and save your file.
  6. Open the html file in a browser to see what it looks like. Click any links to make sure they work.
STEP 2: Download an FTP Program
  1. FileZilla is a good free option. Download it here. Make sure you get the client software.
STEP 3: Connect to your mywebspace account
  1. After opening FileZilla, go to the Site Manager by selecting Site Manager from the File menu.
  2. To connect to your mywebspace website, you need to provide the FTP program the following information:
    1. host: mywebspace.quinnipiac.edu
    2. encryption: Require explicit FTP over TLS
    3. username: mywebspace.quinnipiac.edu|jdoe (make sure to include mywebspace.quinnipiac.edu| before your qu id)
    4. password: •••••• (your qu password)


  3. This information must be exactly correct. If you make a mistake, you will see a red error message. Reread these directions and try again. Email the professor with a screenshot if you continue to have problems.
  4. This document will also walk you through the process.
STEP 4: Update files on the server
  1. If you connect successfully, you should see two file lists. On the left is your computer. On the right is the server.
  2. You can right-click (or control key and click on mac) on the server window to create a new folder.
  3. Navigate to your local site folder with tree structure above the left file list.
  4. Drag files from your local computer (left side) to the server (right side) to update files on the server.


  5. Check mywebspace to ensure the files have been changed on the server (e.g. in the above screenshot, I'd check http://mywebspace.quinnipiac.edu/jbwarren/140/index.html).

Need more help?

  • FileZilla basics with screenshots here.
  • FileZilla basics on YouTube here.