How to connect to your site via SFTP in Elementor

To connect to your Elementor hosting account via SFTP, use a client like FileZilla with Port 22 and your unique credentials found in the My Elementor dashboard. Ensure you select the SFTP protocol rather than standard FTP, as Elementor only supports secure, encrypted connections to ensure your website files remain protected.

Prerequisites

Install an SFTP program on your computer. Some well known SFTP programs are:

• Filezilla
• Cuteftp
• Cyberduck

Why should I use SFTP for my Elementor site?

While most daily tasks like uploading images or installing plugins are handled within the WordPress dashboard, SFTP is required for specific advanced scenarios. You generally only need SFTP if you are troubleshooting a critical site error, uploading exceptionally large files, or if an Elementor support agent requests file-level access to assist you.

[Image: Elementor Site Management Interface – A screenshot of the ‘My Elementor’ dashboard showing the ‘Manage this website’ button on a specific site card.]

What is the difference between FTP and SFTP?

The primary reason connection attempts fail is the selection of an incorrect protocol.

• FTP (File Transfer Protocol): An older, insecure standard that transmits data without encryption.
• SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol): A modern, encrypted standard that protects your data during transit.

Elementor hosting exclusively supports SFTP. If you select “FTP” in your client settings, the server will immediately refuse the connection.

Things to remember about file transfer

• Secure FTP is a safe way of transferring files. It uses the following to protect your data:
  • encryption 
  • separate communication channels
  • hashing
• SFTP uses credentials to authenticate users. If your username or password are incorrect, you cannot login to the server. 
  
  Note

  Credentials are only valid for 24 hours. Whenever you open the SFTP window it generates new credentials and invalidates any existing ones.
• There is no limit to the amount of files you can transfer. But you do have limited server space depending upon what plan you purchased. Check your plans terms and conditions for the amount of space available for your site.

How do I find my SFTP credentials?

Follow these steps:

1. Login to your My Elementor dashboard.
2. Click the website card of the site you want to transfer files to.
   
3. In the right window, under Hosting tools, click Show SFTP details.
   
   Note

   These credentials are valid for 24 hours. However, if you open the SFTP window again it will generate new credentials, invalidating any existing credentials.
   
   
4. Open your third-party SFTP program.
5. Copy the URL and credential information into your SFTP program.
   
6. Follow the instructions of your SFTP program to begin transferring files. 

How do I connect to my server using FileZilla?

We recommend using FileZilla as it is a free, reliable, and industry-standard tool for file management.

1. Open the FileZilla application on your computer.
2. Host: Copy the Host information provided in the SFTP details.
3. Username: Copy the Username provided in the SFTP details.
4. Password: Copy the Password provided in the SFTP details.
5. Port: Type 22.
6. Click Quickconnect.

Why am I seeing an “Unknown Host Key” warning?

The first time you establish a connection, a popup warning regarding an “unknown host key” will appear. This indicates your computer has not encountered this specific server before. To proceed, check the box labeled Always trust this host and click OK.

How do I resolve common SFTP connection errors?

If your connection fails, consult the table below to identify and fix the issue:

Is SSH terminal access available for my Elementor site?

Advanced users often inquire about command-line access via SSH. Currently, Elementor hosting does not support SSH terminal access. While you have comprehensive file access via SFTP, you cannot execute server-side commands such as WP-CLI or git directly on the server environment.