How to Upload Files to Your Web Server

If you're new to building websites, one of the first tasks you'll need to learn is how to upload your files to your web server. Once you get the hang of it, it's a pretty simple task that you can complete in a few minutes.

1. Install an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client program to your computer. You can get a free program, like FileZilla or a paid program like WS_FTP. See "Resources" for more options. Make sure you scan any software files with your anti-virus and anti-spyware program before installing it to your computer.

2. Get familiar with your FTP program. The program lists two directories usually located side-by-side. One side contains the local files on your hard drive and the other contains your web server files.

3. Choose the option to "Connect" or similar on the main menu of your FTP program. Create a new connection for your web server by entering the host name, username and password-all of which your web hosting provider gives you when you sign up for an account.

4. Connect to the web server. You'll see a set of files and folders appear in the side of the FTP client reserved for your web server documents. Double-click the "public_html" or similarly named folder, which contains your public web files.

5. Find the file that you want to upload on side of your FTP client that contains your local directory files (hard drive documents). Double-click the file, drag it over to the other side, or select it and click "Transfer" from the list of options-the method depends on your software.

6. Wait for the FTP client to upload your file to your web server directory. The program notifies you when the transfer is complete. Repeat this process with all other files you need to add to your web directory.

Tip: Some web hosting providers offer browser-based file manager tools that allow you to upload files to your web server by simply logging into your online account.