How Do I Get FTP Access to My Website?
At TAPP Network, we manage the server environment to optimize your website's performance and security. Therefore, direct file access via FTP or SFTP is not a standard feature. If you have a specific need for this type of access, please contact us.
Our Policy on Direct Server Access (FTP/SFTP)
At TAPP Network, our priority is to ensure your website is secure, stable, and running optimally. This document explains our policy on direct server access and how we work with you to accomplish any technical goals you may have.
What is FTP/SFTP Access?
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and its secure version, SFTP, provide direct access to a website's server files. This includes core WordPress files, theme and plugin code, CSS stylesheets, and other foundational components.
Our Standard Policy for Your Protection
To protect the integrity of your website and our managed hosting environment, TAPP Network does not provide FTP or SFTP access for websites we host and support. This policy is a key part of our service agreement and is based on WordPress development best practices.
The reasons for this are threefold:
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To Maintain Website Stability: We use a professional version control system (Git) to track and deploy all code changes. Direct FTP access bypasses this critical system, making it impossible to track changes, test them properly, or roll back to a previous version if an error occurs.
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To Prevent Irreversible Damage: Direct access allows anyone to modify, misconfigure, or even delete essential WordPress, theme, or plugin files. A single unintentional change can break features, compromise security, or take the entire website offline.
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To Uphold Security Standards: Allowing uncontrolled file access is a significant security risk. It creates potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors, putting your data and your customers' data at risk.
How to Accomplish Your Goals the Right Way
We are fully equipped to handle any request you have. The correct method depends on the type of task and your website's setup.
For Content and Common SEO Tasks: If you or a vendor needs to add content, upload images, or implement most tracking codes (like Google Analytics or marketing pixels), this can and should be done safely through the WordPress admin dashboard. Direct file access is not necessary for these tasks.
For Code-Related Changes (Custom Websites): If your site requires code modifications, we handle this through our secure development workflow using a Git repository. This is the industry standard for professional web development.
If you have a developer who needs to make changes, we can grant them access to the site's Git repository. They can then submit their code changes for our team to review and deploy safely. Any experienced WordPress developer will be familiar and comfortable with this professional workflow.
A Note for Your Third-Party Vendors (e.g., SEO or Marketing Agencies)
We understand that you may work with other agencies who request FTP/SFTP access. This is a common request, but it is very rarely needed.
Tasks like installing tracking codes, adding verification files (e.g., for Google Search Console), or modifying robots.txt are routine for our team. Using FTP for these tasks is an outdated method that bypasses modern security and workflow standards.
Our Commitment: We are happy to work directly with your vendor. Simply put them in touch with us or forward their request, and our team will implement it quickly using the proper, secure method.
We're Your Technical Partner
Our policy is designed to be a safeguard, not a roadblock. By managing file access and code deployment, we protect your investment and ensure your website remains a stable, secure asset for your business.
If you have any questions or need to discuss a specific request, please contact our support team. We're here to help you find the best and safest solution.