Home File & Database Management Understanding FTP and SSH Access in Your Hosting Account

Understanding FTP and SSH Access in Your Hosting Account

Last updated on Jul 24, 2025

Comprehensive guide to managing FTP settings, connection methods, and troubleshooting access limitations in your hosting control panel

Overview

Managing your website files securely and efficiently is crucial for keeping your site running smoothly. On Eco Web Hosting shared hosting, you have access to your files via FTP and, in select cases, SSH. This guide will help you understand these access methods, how to configure them, and what to do if you encounter issues.

What Are FTP and SSH?

  • FTP (File Transfer Protocol): The standard method for uploading, downloading, and managing website files. Supported by all Eco Web Hosting shared hosting accounts.
  • SSH (Secure Shell): A secure command-line connection to your hosting account, allowing advanced management. SSH access is usually restricted or limited on shared hosting for security reasons.

Accessing Your Hosting Account via FTP

Step 1: Log In to Your Hosting Control Panel

  • Access your control panel via your Eco Web Hosting client area.
  • Navigate to Hosting > Manage for your domain, then open FTP Accounts.

Step 2: Create or Manage FTP Accounts

  1. Go to FTP Accounts in your control panel.
  2. To create a new account:
    • Enter a username and secure password.
    • Specify a directory (e.g., /domains/yourdomain.com/public_html).
    • Click Create.
  3. To edit or delete an existing account, use the options next to the account listing.

Step 3: Gather Your FTP Connection Details

  • Host: Use your domain name (if pointed to our servers), e.g., yourdomain.com. If not yet pointed, use the server hostname from your welcome email.
  • Username: As set or shown in FTP Accounts.
  • Password: The password you set for the FTP account.
  • Port: 21
  • Encryption: Explicit FTP over TLS (recommended)

Example: Setting Up FileZilla

  1. Download FileZilla.
  2. Open FileZilla and go to File > Site Manager.
  3. Enter your settings: 
    Host: yourdomain.com
Port: 21
Protocol: FTP - File Transfer Protocol
Encryption: Use explicit FTP over TLS if available
Logon Type: Normal
Username: your-ftp-username
Password: your-ftp-password
  4. Click Connect.

Using File Manager (No FTP Client Needed)

  • Access File Manager directly from your control panel for quick file edits, uploads, or downloads.
  • Suitable for small updates or if you do not wish to use an external FTP program.

SSH Access in Shared Hosting

> Note: SSH access is not enabled by default on shared hosting for security. If available, it is often restricted (e.g., Jailed SSH or limited commands).

Checking SSH Availability

  • Look for an SSH Access or Terminal section in your control panel.
  • If not available, SSH cannot be enabled on your package.

Example SSH Command (if enabled):

ssh username@yourdomain.com -p 22
  • Replace username with your hosting account or cPanel username.

Typical SSH Limitations in Shared Hosting

  • No root/admin privileges.
  • Only a restricted set of commands available.
  • File and directory access limited to your own account.

Troubleshooting FTP & SSH Access

FTP Troubleshooting

Common Issues:

  • Login Fails: Double-check username/password (case-sensitive). Reset via control panel if needed.
  • Connection Timeout: Ensure you are using Port 21 and Explicit FTP over TLS. Try passive mode in your FTP client.
  • Can't See Files: Confirm the FTP user’s home directory is correct.
  • Firewall Issues: Make sure your local network/firewall isn’t blocking FTP traffic.

Example: Passive Mode in FileZilla

  1. Go to Edit > Settings > FTP > Passive Mode.
  2. Select Use passive mode.

SSH Troubleshooting

  • Connection Refused: SSH may not be enabled on your package.
  • Permission Denied: Wrong username/password, or trying to use root/admin.
  • No SSH Option in Panel: SSH not included in your shared hosting plan.

Tip: For advanced command-line management, consider upgrading to a VPS or dedicated server.

Best Practices and Security Tips

  • Always use strong, unique passwords for FTP and SSH accounts.
  • Regularly review and remove unused FTP accounts.
  • Use SFTP or FTPS (FTP over TLS) instead of plain FTP whenever possible.
  • Never share your login details.

Further Help

  • For persistent issues, consult our FTP connection guide.
  • For SSH-related queries, see our SSH access policy (if applicable).
  • If you need more advanced access, consider our VPS or Reseller Hosting solutions.

If you need further assistance, please submit a support ticket via your client area. Our team is here to help!