Question 1

What is File Transfer Protocol (FTP)?

Accepted Answer

FTP, otherwise known as File Transfer Protocol, is a means of remotely accessing a server to see the files and data that is stored within that server.As an example, think of your computer that you use every day. If you are on a Mac, you are probably aware of the "Finder" application. On Windows computers, you'll see a similar application called "File Explorer". Both of these applications allow you to gain access to all of the various files that exist on your computer.The benefit of these applications is that they allow users to visually see and manage all of their files in an easy to use Graphical User Interface (GUI).On the other hand, when it comes to the files that exist on your website hosting server, these files are not as easily accessible. This is because website hosting servers typically use a command line based variation of Linux. For the typical end user, this makes things much more complex.That being said, most Linux based hosting servers also have additional software solutions installed such as WHM and cPanel. cPanel is very useful, as it adds lots of functionality to manage your server including a built-in File Manager similar to Finder on Mac or File Explorer on Windows computers. File Manager on cPanel comes with an easy to use Graphical User Interface.There is one big problem however. If you provide admin-level access to your cPanel or your website hosting account, this will expose your website to much greater privacy and security risks.This is primarily due to the fact that your cPanel installation also includes access to something called your database. This database (typically a MySQL database) houses a lot of very sensitive data.If your website is running on WordPress using WooCommerce for Ecommerce, your database will typically include names, emails, phone numbers and other sensitive information about your past customers.In the event that your SEO company gains access to this data, they could potentially export it. This in turn could cause huge headaches including legal ramifications for your business.This is where FTP access comes in handy.

Question 2

What Kind of FTP Account Do I Need To Give My SEO Company?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, you should provide the highest level of access to your SEO company. If there are very sensitive files that are stored on your website server, you can change the file permissions of those directories to prevent your SEO company from gaining access.However, we strongly suggest that you do not store any highly sensitive information directly on your server itself. This is because web servers are often subject to malicious attacks. If the security of your server is compromised, unauthorized users may be able to access these files without your knowledge.

Question 3

What Is the Benefit of Using FTP Over cPanel File Manager?

Accepted Answer

Using FTP allows for your SEO company to easily manage files in bulk remotely using software tools directly from their desktop. Accessing your server's filesystem via FTP is typically done on a secure connection, and is better for bulk file management compared to the web based file manager system on cPanel.Additionally, by providing your SEO company with FTP access instead of cPanel access, it will ensure that your database and other critical files and settings are not directly accessible.

Question 4

What Software Is Used for Accessing FTP?

Accepted Answer

Most SEO companies use a software solution called FileZilla to access website servers using FTP. FileZilla is free to use, and provides a high level of control over settings. It also comes with a really intuitive user interface much like that of Finder on Mac or File Explorer on Windows.

Why Does an SEO Company Need FTP Access?

Ready to grow your business with cannabis marketing?