An index file (e.g., index.html or index.php) serves as the default landing page of your website. Uploading it to your site via FileZilla FTP Client ensures your website's homepage displays properly.
Here’s how to upload an index file using FileZilla:
Step 1: Prepare the Index File
- Ensure your index file is ready on your local computer.
- The file should be named index.html, index.php, or similar, depending on your website's requirements.
- Ensure it is correctly coded and functional.
Step 2: Open FileZilla
- Launch the FileZilla FTP Client on your computer.
Step 3: Connect to Your Server
- In the Quickconnect bar at the top, enter your server details:
- Host: Your domain name or server IP (e.g.,
ftp.yourdomain.com). - Username: Your FTP username.
- Password: Your FTP password.
- Port: Enter
21for FTP or22for SFTP.
- Host: Your domain name or server IP (e.g.,
- Click Quickconnect to establish a connection.
- Once connected, the left panel (Local Site) shows your computer’s files, and the right panel (Remote Site) shows your server’s files.
Step 4: Navigate to the Correct Directory
- In the Remote Site panel (right side), navigate to the directory where your website files are stored:
- Typically, it’s the
public_htmlorwwwdirectory for most hosting providers. - If you’re working with an addon domain, navigate to its specific directory (e.g.,
/public_html/addon_domain).
- Typically, it’s the
Step 5: Upload the Index File
- In the Local Site panel (left side), locate the index file on your computer.
- Drag and drop the file from the Local Site panel to the appropriate directory in the Remote Site panel.
- FileZilla will upload the file to your server.
Step 6: Verify the Upload
- After uploading, confirm the index file is in the correct directory.
- Open your browser and navigate to your website (e.g.,
http://yourdomain.com).- If the index file is correctly uploaded, your homepage will display.
Step 7: Troubleshoot (If Necessary)
- File Overwrite: If an existing index file is present, FileZilla will prompt you to overwrite it. Confirm before replacing the file.
- File Permissions: Ensure the uploaded index file has the correct permissions (e.g.,
644).- Right-click the file in the Remote Site panel, select File Permissions, and adjust if needed.
Tips for Managing Index Files
- Backup Old Files: Before replacing an index file, download the existing one for backup in case you need it later.
- Check File Names: Ensure the file name is lowercase (
index.htmlorindex.php) and matches your server's default settings. - Clear Cache: If the new file doesn’t display, clear your browser cache or test in an incognito window.
By following these steps, you can upload your index file using FileZilla, ensuring your website’s homepage displays correctly.
