# Managing FTP accounts and sessions in cPanel

> Create, edit and delete FTP accounts in cPanel, and view or end active FTP sessions on your hosting account.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/cpanel/files/managing-ftp-accounts-and-sessions-in-cpanel/

## Managing FTP Accounts in cPanel

This guide explains how to create, edit, and delete FTP accounts for your website.

**About FTP (File Transfer Protocol)**\
FTP is a standard method used to upload and download files between your computer and your web server. To use FTP, you typically use an FTP client like *FileZilla*, although some web browsers also support FTP. If you need to transfer many files, using a dedicated FTP client is usually the fastest and easiest method.

In cPanel, you can create FTP accounts that allow other users to upload or download files from selected folders on your site.

**Security Warning**\
FTP gives users the ability to modify your website files in the directory you permit. This includes uploading, editing, and deleting files. Only create FTP accounts for trusted users, and always limit access to specific folders.

## Creating an FTP Account

When you create an FTP account, cPanel sets up a directory where the user can access files.

To create one:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. On the **Tools** page, in the **Files** section, click **FTP Accounts**.
3. Under **Add FTP Account**, enter the **username**.
4. Select the **domain** the user will access.

   - Full FTP usernames look like:\
     `username@yourdomain.com`
5. Enter and confirm the **password** for the account.

   - You may use **Password Generator** to create a strong password.
6. cPanel will automatically suggest a directory for the account. You may change it.

   - **Important:** If you leave the directory empty, the user will gain access to *your entire hosting account*. Always assign a specific subdirectory.
7. Set a **quota** (or leave it as **Unlimited**).
8. Click **Create FTP Account**.

## Changing an FTP Account Password

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Go to **FTP Accounts** in the **Files** section.
3. Locate the account and click **Change Password**.
4. Enter and confirm the new password.
5. Click **Change Password**.

## Deleting an FTP Account

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Open **FTP Accounts** from the **Files** section.
3. Find the account you want to remove and click **Delete**.

You will have two options:

- **Delete Account Only:** Removes the FTP login, but keeps the files.
- **Delete Account and Files:** Removes the FTP login and *all files in its assigned directory.*

Choose carefully before confirming deletion.