J) Transfer files using SFTP

What is SFTP

There are two ways to get files onto your server: SSH and SFTP. We recommend SFTP instead of SSH for its ease of use.
SFTP is a secure form of FTP (file transfer protocol) that runs over SSH on port 22.

Several SFTP clients exist, but at JungleWP we like Cyberduck for its clean interface and simple drag-and-drop-ability. Also, Cyberduck is free and runs on both Windows and Mac OS X systems. Both versions can be downloaded at https://cyberduck.io .

How to Configure Cyberduck for WordPress

To help you have the easiest experience using SFTP for your WordPress apps, we recommend adjusting these settings as soon as you have installed Cyberduck.

  • First, set Cyberduck's default protocol to SFTP.
  • Open the General tab in the (Mac users: program > preferences | Windows users:  Edit > preferences)
  • Select SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) as your default protocol.

Show Hidden Files

A hidden file is not normally visible when examining the contents of a directory. Hidden files often begin with a dot (.), such as .htaccess and .htpasswd.
When migrating an app from one server to another, it's important for you to see hidden files so they are not skipped in the transfer.
To see your hidden files in Cyberduck, open the Browser settings in the program preferences. Make sure a check mark is placed next to Show hidden files.

Set Your External Editor

To more easily edit your files in Cyberduck, follow these steps.
  • First, open the Browser settings and place a checkmark next to Double click opens files in external editor, as shown above.
  • Then, click the Editor tab and select your text editor from the drop-down list.
  • Place a check mark next to Always use this application.
If you don't have a favorite text editor, WordPress has a  list of examples you can choose from.
Note that Cyberduck defaults to TextEdit on Mac or Notepad on Windows ; if you decide to use TextEdit, make sure to turn off smart quotes.
Exit the preferences to save your settings.

How to transfer files over SFTP with Cyberduck?

To SFTP into your server, click Open Connection.

Make sure SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is selected in the drop-down list at the top of the pop-up window.

  • Enter your server's IP address in the Server field.
  • Enter your username 
  • and enter the password
  • Place a checkmark next to Add to Keychain.
  • Click Connect.
Since this is your first time connecting to your server, check the box next to Always and click Allow in the Unknown Fingerprint popup.
Now, you'll be able to easily install Plugins and Themes or modify files on your server.

Uploading Files to Your WordPress App

Cyberduck makes it easy to upload files to your apps. Simply drag them from their existing location and drop them into the app's location on your server.
For example, if your WordPress site is named "APPNAME", that app's web root directory (the directory you place its files in) will be:
	apps/APPNAME/public
By default, there will be an "index.php" file in that directory.

Another example is shown below: 

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