How to Connect to a Terraria Server via FTP
Last modified on Jan 16, 2023 in terraria
Overview
Hosting Terraria servers can introduce many possibilities for your players, such as custom worlds, mods, or the ability to have a private map. This typically leads owners to explore ways to configure and customize their server. However, these changes can become overwhelming or too challenging since it requires File Transfer Protocol (FTP) connections. Establishing this on your server means that you can begin uploading, downloading, or editing files. Luckily, the entire process is simplified through our online FTP panel since it requires no downloads or technical knowledge. However, if you’re needing more control over the server, then using an external program (client) to make the connection is suggested. Both methods have benefits and downsides, which we’ll be discussing in this Apex Hosting guide to teach you how to make an FTP connection on your Terraria server.
Terraria FTP Connection
Making an FTP connection requires critical information, such as the host’s address and port. These details are accessible from your Terraria server, which can change if you switch its location or region. Consider this as you continue establishing an FTP connection, but remember that the login details must be correct for it to work. As previously mentioned, there are two methods for doing this: using our online panel or an external client. The first one is the easiest and most common among server owners, as it’s easy-to-use and allows for quick file access. As for the latter, it grants more control over file sizes and transfer speeds, making it the better option if you’re planning to upload large documents. These can be used together if you want, meaning it’s not one or the other. Due to these methods and their respective differences, let’s explore them individually to get you started.
Online Panel
Using the web-based FTP panel is the easiest way to access your server files. The only information required is your password to login, which is entered directly in your server area. Unfortunately, there are limitations to this method such as the inability to download large files, being unable to view certain file types, and longer uploading speed. However, for most day-to-day transfers or edits, the online panel works without any problems. For example, uploading plugins or custom worlds on any type of Terraria server can easily be done online. Due to this and other benefits, despite its limited uses, review the steps below to familiarize yourself with our FTP panel.
- Head towards your Apex server panel and press FTP File Access, near the top left.
- Login with your password, then you should see all your server files.
- You may now press Edit on specific files to view/change them or explore other folders.
Additionally, you can download them by clicking their filename unless it’s too large.
External Program
An external client or program is a downloadable application that allows you to enter FTP details for a connection. It’s a bit more technical than our online panel, but there are hardly any limitations. For instance, using FileZilla or Cyberduck gives server owners the ability to download and upload any file size. This is what most people focus on while using a third party program, as having these powers help create that perfect server. However, due to the increased work compared to its counterpart, review the instructions below to establish an FTP connection via an external client.
- Download a third-party FTP program, such as FileZilla, then run it.
- Once opened, navigate towards your server panel and click FTP File Access.
- Copy the
FTP Address (Host),Port,Username, and your password. - Head back towards the external client, then paste the login information accordingly.
- Afterward, continue to Connect or Quickconnect depending on the program.
- Now you should be able to view all your server files and profiles.
At this point, you can download or upload any files no matter its size.
Important Files
Once you’re connected to the FTP for Terraria, you will notice several files and directories that can be accessed. These will differ depending on the version of Terraria you are running, however most configurations, world files, and more can be found here. While some of these notable files can be adjusted through the Config Files directly, most can also be adjusted manually here.
As the name suggests, the Saves folder will allow you to access the /Worlds/ directory to access the save files for your world. These are stored in the .wld format for main worlds, with the .bak files used as backups. Whether you are looking to download, upload, or backup a world, you’ll find plenty of use in this folder. The file names can also be used in the World section of the main panel page in order to load the desired world for use.
When you aim to modify your server as a whole, the serverconfig.txt will become necessary. This file allows you to manually set a world seed, difficulty, max players, and more. While some settings can be adjusted directly through the Customizations tab, manually editing the serverconfig.txt can allow access to more options such as a custom Message of The Day for users to view. Simply make your changes, press Save, then restart the server.
When running your own server, many choose to improve a server’s functionality through the use of plugins and Terraria is no exception. If set to the TShock version of Terraria, the ServerPlugins folder will allow you to upload and use various .dll plugin files. There are many to choose from, including refilling chests, crossplay features, Discord integration, and more. For more information on this, check out our tutorial page here.
As mentioned before, modifying your server is often a goal for server owners, but this is taken to the next level with TShock. The TShock folder can be used to adjust a variety of files to make your server unique. Some of these include the motd.txt, config.json, rules.txt, whitelist.txt, and more. This allows you to completely define your server’s functionality, which will take effect by saving the file and performing a restart.
Common Issues
Unable to FTP Connect
If you’re unable to make any FTP connection, double-check your password. In most cases, the wrong password is used and creates confusion among owners. For clarification, you are using the panel password that allows you to access the server. However, other times this isn’t the scenario due to possibly outdated FTP login details. If you recently changed your server’s location, then copy the new information to use on your program. Although, it can also be caused by using the IP address instead of the FTP variant. As for the last possibility, the server might be having a difficult time connecting to its machine, resulting in both available methods failing.
Files Stopped Uploading
As previously noted, the online panel has limitations and may encounter problems uploading large files. For instance, if you attempt to transfer a 2GB file, then it may become stuck or simply stop processing. In this situation, try an external FTP program to make the connection and upload. These are your two options, so sometimes switching between them is required for your configuration. Otherwise, the server’s machine might be slower than usual due to increased activity or unforeseen scenarios. In any case, make sure to use an application that supports larger file sizes to continue the transfers.
Missing Data
Similar to failed uploads or downloads, missing data happens with large transfers. This can either be a high file size or too many files at once. The best method to counteract this is compiling all files into a single ZIP file. Programs such as WinRAR or 7zip achieve this without problems, and is heavily recommended to use. Once these files are compiled, upload the zipped document into the server via any method you desire. However, if you need to use those applications, then it’s likely safe to say an external FTP client is required too.
Useful Links
Additional FTP Information
How to Add Plugins to Terraria Servers
Uploading Custom Worlds on a Terraria Server
Extra Terraria Guides
