Transferring Files

Note that the folders are listed first, then the files.  Folders and files are listed alphabetically, with numbers being listed first.  Sometimes folders are referred to as "directories."  Either can be used in conversation, but WS_FTP uses "directory" when referring to folders. 

Also notice the different file extensions for the various files.  Some of them are:  .gif for graphics files, .html or .htm for Web pages, and even .mov for a video file.  You will primarily be using .gif and .html as the file extensions for this course.

Last, notice the two arrows in the area between the two windows.  These are the arrows that you use to transfer files from one location to the other. 

Next, click on the arrow pointing to the right, to the location you would like to put the file. This button has a red box around it in the image.  In this examle, the file will be put into the public_html folder.  I know this because it is the last folder (directory) that is listed at the top of the window (/home/home7/wolfsa1/public_html).  If I wanted it to go into the "sara" directory, I'd need to double-click "sara" to open it, then click the arrow pointing to the right for the transfer to take place. 

Be careful, transferring files into the wrong folder by mistake is one of the most common ftp errors that novice developers make.  Always double check where you're putting your files.  While it's not difficult to move them from a wrong folder to the correct one, it is a step that can be avoided with careful attention to detail.

VOILA! 

If you have your sound on, you will hear music that will tell you your file transfer was completed.  You will also get a “transfer completed” message in the status box at the bottom of the screen.  Note the message in the image at the right.