Adding FTP Accounts in Plesk Onyx

Managing FTP Accounts in Plesk Onyx

When collaborating on website development or hosting subdomains for various users, creating separate FTP (File Transfer Protocol) accounts is a common and essential practice. This allows for controlled access to specific directories on your server, enhancing security and organization. This guide will walk you through the process of creating, modifying, and removing FTP accounts within Plesk Onyx.

Creating New FTP Accounts

To establish a new FTP account for a user or a specific purpose, follow these detailed steps:

1. Navigate to the Websites & Domains section and then click on FTP Access. This panel provides an overview of all existing FTP accounts and options for management.
2. Select the Add FTP Account button to initiate the creation process.
3. You will be prompted to specify the following crucial details for the new account:
   • FTP account name: Choose a descriptive and unique name for the FTP user. This name will be used by the user to log in.
   • Home directory: Define the specific directory on your server where the user will land upon connecting to their FTP account. This setting is critical for limiting access to only the necessary files and folders.
   • FTP password: Create a strong and secure password for the account. Ensure it meets security best practices to protect your server's content.
   • Hard disk quota (on Windows hosting): If you need to restrict the amount of server disk space that this particular FTP user can utilize, deselect the Unlimited checkbox. Then, enter the desired disk space limit in megabytes (MB). This helps manage server resources effectively.
   • Read permission (on Windows hosting): Granting this permission allows the FTP user to view the contents of their designated home directory and download files from it. This is suitable for users who only need to retrieve information.
   • Write permission (on Windows hosting): Enable this checkbox if the FTP user needs the ability to create new directories, upload files, rename existing files/directories, and delete content within their home directory. This permission is necessary for active collaboration and content management.

     Note: On Windows hosting environments, if neither read nor write permissions are granted, the FTP connection will be established, but the user will not be able to view any content within the home directory.

4. Once all the required information has been accurately entered, click OK to finalize the creation of the new FTP account.

Modifying Existing FTP Account Settings

Should you need to update the settings for an existing FTP account, such as changing the home directory, password, or permissions, follow these steps:

1. Access the Websites & Domains section and click FTP Access.
2. Locate and click on the specific FTP account name within the displayed list that you wish to modify.
3. Make the necessary adjustments to the account properties. Remember to click OK to save your changes.

Deleting FTP Accounts

To remove an FTP account that is no longer needed, follow these simple instructions:

1. Navigate back to Websites & Domains and select FTP Access.
2. In the list of FTP accounts, check the box next to the account you intend to remove. Then, click the Remove button.

   Important: Please note that the primary FTP account associated with a subscription cannot be deleted.

3. Confirm the removal action by clicking OK when prompted.