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LESSON - FTP |
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What is FTP?
FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol and that is exactly what it does. It transfers files from one computer to another. For our purposes, we will be using an FTP to transfer your web pages from your computer to the server of the company we signed up with to host your page.
When we signed up with catalog.com, to host your page, they gave you some information in their e-mail. I put the information into the appropriate places in a FTP client. Then I clicked connect and we were half way there. I had just plugged into their server. Remember that is like hooking up into their telephone answering service to let them know how you want it programmed. Now we can send your files over and later, if you need to, you can copy them right back to your computer. I will be putting them onto a CD-ROM for you and sending it to you. Remember, this won’t reflect future changes you may make – so be sure to get a copy from whomever helps you in the future.
Server Uploads and Downloads
As I explained above, the most common form of server upload or download uses the file transfer protocol FTP. The following is some technical stuff that might not be of interest you. However, It is so simple to upload your web pages you may want to learn how make changes in Front Page and then upload them yourself. If this happens, there are a couple of tips you need to know.
Important Tips: Binary, ASCII and Case Sensitivity
Care must be exercised that binary and ASCII files are transferred in the proper mode. Image, sound, and movie files, and executable files like Java class files, are normally binary files; they will become corrupted if you transfer them in ASCII mode. On the other hand, text tiles transferred in binary mode may lose end-of-line information. I am not sure what this means but for us – make sure to transfer the files in the proper mode.
If you have any doubt about the character of a file, you can usually tell if it is binary or ASCII by opening it with a plain text editor (like NotePad). If the file has strange characters in it (i.e. if it resembles the comic strip representation of cursewords), it is probably binary. The safest option is to transfer it as a binary file, if you are uncertain.
If you are going to be uploading files to Network servers, you are also well advised to bear in mind that there are issues about case sensitivity and blank spaces in file and directory names.
Your Web site folders on the ISP's server must have the identical system of folders
and files that you used on your own disk when creating the site. Otherwise, the
internal links and graphics may not work.Finally, if the directory structure for your Web site is complicated you will need some familiarity with directory . For this reason, the web pages we set up for you will all be in one directory.
How to Upload Through Your Browser
I don't use this method, but here are the instructions.
You will be able to upload through your browser provided that your ISP and browser permit that function.
You will need to know your own Web address (where you want the files to be
uploaded to), your ID (user name) and password before you can upload to your ISP's
server. Your ISP will provide this information if you don't have it available.
Open the browser and look for a function that will allow you to upload files to the
Web. This could be Upload, Web Wizard, FTP, etc.
Move through the folders on your disk until you have selected the Web pages that
you want to upload.
Initiate the upload, entering your Web address, ID and passwords when prompted.
Follow any specific instructions provided by your ISP.
Enter the URL of your Web site in the Address window of your browser. Click Enter. Your uploaded Web site should display in the browser window.
Tips:
It is a good idea to name your first page "index.html." If you use this name, people
will be able to access your site without knowing the file name of your first page. For
example, this URL would work: http://www.ISPsite/mysite/
If you name your first page something else, visitors will need to use this longer URL:
http://www.ISPsite/mysite/mypage.html
How to Upload Using an FTP Client
will include your Web address (where you want to put the files you're uploading), your
ID or user name, and your password. Your ISP will provide you with this information if
you don't have it available.
windows, both showing a file structure. The window on the left represents the folders
and files on your own computer or disk. Move through the folders until you locate the
Web pages to be uploaded. Select your files.
should appearTips
FTP clients are software programs that allow you to upload files to Web servers. They
allow you to perform more complex tasks than are possible when uploading from a
browser.
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