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How do I upload a large file via FTP?

Author:
cpcloudhosting

Published:

Updated on August 15, 2024

Reading Time: 2 min

The maximum FTP upload/download size is 5GB. If you need to upload a file larger than this, you’ll need to use another method to transfer the file. The 5GB limit is usually enough for most use cases, equivalent to 17.5 hours of 720p HD video.

For files exceeding the FTP limit, we recommend using tools like Rsync or WinSCP, which allow file transfers over SSH without size restrictions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Uploading Large Files via SSH Using WinSCP: #

  1. Enable SSH Access:
    • Log in to StackCP.
    • Head to Manage Hosting and select the package you want SSH access for.
    • Select SSH Access from under the Security section.
    • Input the Public Key generated from PuTTYgen into the Public Key box, which will generate a handle for it. Then, select Add Public Key on the page.
    • Save the private key locally under any name you want; you’ll need this later.
  2. Download and Install WinSCP:
  3. Open WinSCP:
    • You’ll be prompted with a Login form upon loading.
    • Select SCP under File protocol: at the top.
  4. Enter Connection Details:
    • Host name: The hostname will depend on what data centre your package is in. For UK packages, this should be ssh.gb.stackcp.com. For packages in the US, please use ssh.us.stackcp.com.
    • User name: The domain name of the package.
    • Port: 22.
    • Leave the password area of the form blank for now and hit Advanced beneath it. You’ll be greeted with an Advanced Site Settings box.
  5. Configure SSH Authentication:
    • Navigate to SSH > Authentication and hit the ... box under Private key file. You can select your Private Key you saved earlier from here.
    • Once that’s added, hit OK and then Login at the bottom. You’ll get a prompt for the password you set with the key pair earlier: enter it here.
  6. Upload Files:
    • You should now be connected to your web hosting via WinSCP.
    • To upload files, simply drag and drop your files from your local system to the remote server directory.

By using WinSCP for large file transfers over SSH, you bypass the 5GB limit imposed by FTP, ensuring smooth and efficient file management.