How to upload media via FTP wordpress

Estimated Reading Time: 2 min

Rate this post

Here’s how to upload a video via FTP and make it available in WordPress:


Choose an FTP Client

Popular FTP clients include:

  • FileZilla (Free and widely used)
  • WinSCP (Windows only)
  • Cyberduck (Cross-platform)
  • Transmit (Mac only, paid)

For simplicity, the following instructions focus on FileZilla, a free and beginner-friendly option.

Step 1: Install an FTP Client

  • Download and install an FTP client like FileZilla.
FTP client like FileZilla

Step 2: Get FTP Credentials

  • Obtain your FTP credentials from your hosting provider. These typically include:
    • Host (e.g., ftp.yoursite.com or an IP address)
    • Username
    • Password
    • Port (default is usually 21)

Step 3: Connect to Your Server

  1. Open FileZilla or another FTP client.
  2. Enter the FTP credentials in the appropriate fields.
  3. Click Quickconnect.

Step 4: Navigate to the Upload Folder

  1. On the server side (right panel in FileZilla), navigate to: wp-content/uploads/YYYY/MM
    • Replace YYYY/MM with the current year and month, e.g., 2025/01.
  2. If the folder doesn’t exist, create it by right-clicking in the directory and selecting Create Directory.

Step 5: Upload the Video

  1. On your local side (left panel in FileZilla), locate your video file.
  2. Drag and drop the file into the desired folder on the server.

Step 6: Add the Upload Video to WordPress

  1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
  2. Go to Media > Library.
  3. Click the Add New button.
  4. Select the Upload files via URL or Server option if your theme/plugin supports it.
    • If this isn’t available, install a plugin like “Add From Server” to register the video in your Media Library.

Step 7: Use the Video

  • Once added to your Media Library, you can insert the video into your posts or pages using the block editor or shortcodes.

Troubleshooting FTP Issues

  • Permission Denied: Ensure the folder permissions are set to 755 for directories and 644 for files.
  • File Not Showing in Media Library: Use a plugin like “Add From Server” or update your database manually.

Let me know if you need detailed help with any of these steps!

Photo of author

Flora

How to upload media via FTP wordpress

Published

I am Flora, the publisher and founder of *Be-Smart*, a platform dedicated to sharing insights and inspiration for living a fulfilling life. With a strong background in the web, my goal is to empower people to genuinely recognize and celebrate admirable actions big or small in themselves and others.