Solving FTP Problems
For those of you who manage your own web content, you're likely using Dreamweaver's FTP, or another FTP program, to transfer files between yourself and the web server. There aren't many problems that are likely to happen with FTP, but if you're having problems connecting or transferring files, read on.
Passive or Active FTP
Depending upon the network you're using, and what type of firewall you may be protected by, there can sometimes be issues connecting or listing files on the server from within Dreamweaver or your FTP program. Some networks will only allow you to use "active" FTP, while other networks and firewalls require that you use "passive" FTP. The difference between the two is how FTP communications are established (or how the TCP ports are used, for the technically-inclined). Luckily, on PortalMedia's hosting system, we support both active and passive FTP.
If you are using an FTP program, then the procedure for changing this FTP setting may vary. Below is a screenshot of the checkbox in Dreamweaver you will want to toggle if you are having problems with FTP. Get to this dialog box by going to the main drop-down menus and select Site > Manage Sites. From there, select the web site you wish to edit, and click on Edit. Finally, select Remote Info in the box on the left, and below the password field is the checkbox entitled Use passive FTP. Try this both checked, and unchecked, and test the settings by clicking on the Test button. Pick the setting that works best for you—it makes no difference to us!
If you are having other problems with your web hosting, please contact support at 608-268-1410 or e-mail support@portalmedia.com.
