What is FTP?

FTP or File Transfer Protocol is used to transfer data from one computer to another over the Internet, or through a network.

Specifically, FTP is a commonly used protocol for exchanging files over any network that supports the TCP/IP protocol (such as the Internet). There are two computers involved in an FTP transfer: a server (the machine your Freestart website is located on) and a client (usually your PC). The FTP server, running FTP server software, listens on the network for connection requests from other computers. The client computer, running FTP Client Software (such as FileZilla), initiates a connection to the server. Once connected, the client can do a number of file manipulation operations such as uploading files to the server, download files from the server, rename or delete files on the server and so on.

Why use FTP?

If you would like to design and build your own website, to go on the domain name you have with Freestart, then you will need to use FTP to transfer it once created from your PC to our servers. However doing this means that your existing 'Freestart Premier Website' will be turned off and you will lose all the information contained within it.

It is therefore important that you have already created your own website before requesting that your account be switched over to FTP.

How do I change my account to FTP?

If you would like to change your account to FTP, we will require you to clearly define the domain name you wish to have this setup on along with either the current password for your Freestart account and/or the most recent invoice number you received from Freestart. You can supply this information to us in one of the following ways:

• Placing a support ticket by clicking here
• Emailing support@freestart.com
• Sending a fax to 0870 741 5297
• Posting the request to:

  Freestart Plc,
  Andrew House,
  Lord Street,
  Wigan,
  WN1 2BN

*If for some reason you are unable to provide the password or invoice number, we will require the written request on letterheaded paper signed by the account holder for the website on our systems.

What happens next?

Once we have switched your account over to FTP, which can take up to 24 hours from receipt of your request, you will be provided with the following details usually by email or fax (by post if you have neither):

• FTP Host Address
• User Name
• Password