How to Access an FTP Server from the Browser

How to Access an FTP Server: A Beginner-Friendly Guide

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is one of the oldest and most reliable methods of transferring files over the Internet. Even with the rise of modern cloud platforms, FTP, SFTP (Secure FTP), and FTPS remain essential for businesses, developers, and IT teams that need dependable file transfer solutions.

While many organizations now turn to modern cloud-based file sharing platforms, FTP is still trusted for tasks that demand stability, control, and compatibility. Whether you’re downloading a software package from the IRS or uploading a file to a vendor, FTP is likely in the mix.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to access an FTP server step-by-step and whether an on-premise FTP appliance like ExaVault or a cloud-native platform like Files.com is right for your needs.

So how do you access an FTP server today? Let’s break it down.

What Is an FTP Server?

An FTP server stores files and provides access via FTP client software. You connect to it either with a dedicated FTP client (like FileZilla or WinSCP) or, in some cases, through your operating system’s file manager.

While web browsers used to support FTP directly, most modern browsers – including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge – no longer support FTP natively. That means using a dedicated FTP client is now the recommended approach for accessing FTP servers.

On-Premise vs. Cloud FTP: What’s Right for You?

Today, FTP servers come in two main flavors:

• On-Premise FTP Appliances like ExaVault give you full control over your infrastructure and data, ideal for businesses with strict security or compliance requirements.
• Cloud-Native FTP Platforms like Files.com let you skip the hardware and scale effortlessly, with full support for FTP, SFTP, and FTPS protocols, plus built-in automation, integrations, and audit trails.

Not sure which one’s best? Compare ExaVault and Files.com or keep reading to learn how FTP works.

Types of FTP Access

Different organizations configure FTP access based on their goals:

• Anonymous FTP: No credentials needed. You may simply enter “anonymous” as the username, and your email as the password. Common for public downloads.
• Username-only access: Often used by schools or partners. You log in with a username but don’t need a password.
• Username + Password: Most secure and widely used. You’ll need login credentials to access the server.

No matter the type of access, an FTP client allows you to connect, upload, download, and manage files securely and efficiently.

How to Access an FTP Server (the Modern Way)

Accessing an FTP server today is easier and more flexible than ever — especially with the right tools. Here’s how to connect securely and manage your file transfers:

1. Choose an FTP Client or Platform

To connect to an FTP server, you’ll need a tool that speaks the FTP, SFTP, or FTPS protocol. There are two options:

• Desktop FTP Clients – Great for one-off or manual file transfers
  Popular choices:
• FileZilla (free, open-source)
• WinSCP (Windows)
• Cyberduck (Mac + Windows)
• Cloud-Based Platforms – Ideal for business use, frequent transfers, and automation
• Files.com supports FTP/SFTP/FTPS and works with any client – or use its web-based interface to access files from anywhere, no downloads needed.

2. Gather Your FTP Credentials

Before connecting, make sure you have:

• FTP Hostname (e.g., ftp.example.com)
• Port Number
• 21 for FTP
• 22 for SFTP
• 990 for FTPS (explicit or implicit)
• Username & Password
• Some servers allow anonymous access, but most require credentials.

3. Connect and Transfer Files

Once you're connected:

• Navigate the server like a file system
• Drag and drop files between your computer and the server
• Upload, download, or sync as needed

Pro Tip: For regular access, you can map the FTP server as a network drive in Windows or macOS, or simply use a web-based dashboard like Files.com to manage everything from your browser.

A Note About FTP and Your Browser

While older tutorials may recommend using your browser to connect to FTP servers, this is no longer practical. Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge have all removed support for FTP due to security limitations and low usage.

If you're looking for convenience and security, dedicated FTP clients – or platforms with modern web interfaces – are the way to go.

Need FTP for Your Business?

If your business needs a dedicated FTP solution, the ExaVault FTP Appliance provides a secure, on-premise platform with:

• SFTP, FTPS, and FTP protocol support
• Granular user and folder permissions
• Built-in activity logging
• A web-based interface for user-friendly file management
• Compatibility with any FTP client

This makes ExaVault an excellent fit for organizations that want full control over infrastructure while offering FTP access for employees, partners, or customers.

Want FTP Without the Hardware?

If your team doesn’t want to maintain infrastructure but still needs reliable FTP, Files.com is the best of both worlds: full FTP/SFTP/FTPS support + modern cloud convenience.

• Connect with any FTP client or use our elegant web interface.
• Automate workflows, sync with cloud storage, and audit every transfer.
• SOC 2 Type II compliant with enterprise-grade security.

Wrapping Up

FTP remains a critical tool for secure, high-volume file transfers. If you need full infrastructure control, ExaVault’s on-premise FTP appliance is ideal for self-hosted deployments.

But if you're ready to modernize and simplify your FTP environment, Files.com provides a secure, cloud-hosted alternative with built-in automation, integrations, and scalability – no servers required.

FAQs

Why can’t I access an FTP site?

If you're having trouble connecting to an FTP site, it could be due to a few common issues:

• Your FTP client settings may be incorrect.
• Your firewall or antivirus software could be blocking the connection.
• The server you're trying to reach might be offline or have restricted access.

Try using a dedicated FTP client like FileZilla or WinSCP, and make sure you have the correct hostname, port number, and login credentials.

Is my firewall blocking FTP?

Possibly. The default FTP port is 21 (or 22 for SFTP), and some firewalls or network configurations may block these ports.
Check your firewall or router settings to ensure outbound connections on those ports are allowed. You can also consult your IT administrator for help configuring firewall exceptions.

Does FTP still work in Chrome or Firefox?

No. FTP support has been removed from all major browsers, including:

• Chrome (since version 88)
• Firefox (since version 90)
• Microsoft Edge (based on Chromium)

Use an FTP client like FileZilla – or try a cloud platform like Files.com that lets you access FTP servers through a secure, modern web interface.

How can I connect to an FTP server with an IP address and port?

You can use an FTP client like FileZilla or WinSCP. Here's how:

1. Open your FTP client.
2. Enter the server's IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.100) and port number (usually 21 for FTP or 22 for SFTP).
3. Enter your username and password, then connect.

You can also map FTP as a network location in Windows Explorer for frequent access.

How can I download from an FTP site?

To download files from an FTP server:

1. Use an FTP client to connect to the server.
2. Navigate to the folder where the file is stored.
3. Drag the file to your local machine or click "Download."

Depending on the permissions set by the server administrator, you may also be able to upload or modify files.

Looking for a business-grade FTP solution?

ExaVault supports any FTP client and provides a user-friendly web interface for managing files, users, and permissions.
It’s an on-premise appliance designed for businesses that need secure, reliable file transfers with complete infrastructure control.

Whether you prefer on-premise control or cloud-based flexibility, we’ve got you covered:

• ExaVault is a secure, on-prem FTP appliance with full protocol support and admin-level controls
• Files.com is a cloud-native FTP platform with built-in automation, audit logs, and zero infrastructure to manage

Compare ExaVault and Files.com to choose the best fit for your organization.