The FTP Connections interface in cPanel shows all active connections to your FTP server and allows you to monitor or terminate these sessions. You can see who is connected, when they logged in, their connection status, and which host they're connecting from, giving you full control over your server's FTP access.
This feature is only available when FTP services are enabled on your hosting account. If you don't see this interface, contact OBHost support to confirm FTP is active on your server.
Understanding FTP Session Information
When you access the FTP Connections interface, you'll see a table displaying all current FTP sessions with the following details:
- User: The FTP account username currently logged in (example: user@yourdomain.com)
- Logged in From: The hostname or IP address from which the user connected to your server
- Login Time: The exact date and time when the FTP session started
- Status: The current activity state of the connection (IDLE, uploading, downloading, etc.)
- Process ID: The unique system process identifier for this FTP session
- Actions: Options to disconnect or manage the session
Why Monitor FTP Connections
Regularly checking your FTP connections helps you maintain security and troubleshoot issues. You can identify unauthorized access attempts, see if old sessions are still consuming resources, or determine if multiple users are accessing your files simultaneously. This is especially useful when you need to make critical updates and want to ensure no one else is modifying files at the same time.
How to Disconnect an FTP Session
If you need to terminate an active FTP connection, locate the session in the list and click the disconnect or terminate option in the Actions column. This immediately ends the FTP session and logs out that user. You might need to do this if you suspect unauthorized access, if a session appears stuck, or if you need to perform maintenance that requires exclusive file access.
Troubleshooting FTP Connection Issues
If you notice unusual connection patterns, such as logins from unfamiliar locations or multiple failed login attempts, take immediate action. Change your FTP password, review your FTP account permissions, and consider enabling additional security measures. If a legitimate user reports connection problems while the interface shows they're already connected, terminating their stuck session often resolves the issue.
What should I do if I see an unfamiliar FTP connection?
Immediately disconnect the suspicious session through the Actions column. Then change your FTP password, review all FTP accounts for unauthorized entries, and check your files for any unexpected changes. Contact support@obhost.org if you believe your account has been compromised.
Can I see historical FTP connection logs?
The FTP Connections interface shows only current active sessions, not historical data. For detailed connection logs including past sessions, check your FTP logs through the Raw Access or Error Logs interfaces in cPanel, or contact your hosting provider for assistance accessing archived logs.
Why can't I see the FTP Connections interface in my cPanel?
This interface only appears when FTP services are enabled on your hosting account. Some hosting configurations may use SFTP or other file transfer methods instead of traditional FTP. If you need FTP access, reach out to OBHost support to enable this service on your account.
How many simultaneous FTP connections are allowed?
Connection limits vary by hosting plan and server configuration. Most accounts support multiple simultaneous FTP sessions, but excessive connections may be limited to prevent server resource issues. Check your hosting plan details or contact your provider for specific connection limits on your account.
If you need assistance managing your FTP connections or have questions about FTP access, our support team is available 24/7. Visit https://www.obhost.net/contact or email support@obhost.org for help.
