If you receive a specific error, refer to the FTP Error Codes article in this Knowledgebase. If not, there are several possible causes for this issue. The best way to determine if the reason you cannot connect is because of Direct FTP or your server is to test your server account settings in DOS mode. Here’s how:
1. In Windows, navigate to Start > Run.
2. Type CMD, and then press Enter.
3. Type FTP yourhostname.com, and then press Enter.
If you receive a message stating "Host not found," or if the program cannot connect, then there is a problem with your hostname. Contact your hosting provider to double-check this information.
4. Enter your username, and then press Enter.
5. Enter your password, and then press Enter.
(Note: Your password will not appear onscreen as you type.)
If you receive a message stating "Login incorrect," or if the program cannot connect, then there is a problem with your username and/or password. Contact your hosting provider to double-check this information.
If you are able to successfully connect in DOS mode, try enabling Passive mode in Direct FTP. To do this, navigate to File > Manage Servers and put a checkmark next to Passive Mode.
If you are using a Firewall or a PC protection program such as McAfee, Norton, or ZoneAlarm, try disabling them or adding Direct FTP to the exceptions list.
Double-check your FTP settings to ensure that they have been entered correctly. A common error is preceding your server name with ftp:// or http://.
If all else fails, you may want to try deleting the server profile in Direct FTP, and then recreating it.
If you still cannot connect, you may want to consult these articles or contact your hosting provider:
I Can Connect to My Server, but I Can't Upload
FTP Return and Error Codes
I Use Tripod for Web Hosting, and I Can't Upload
After Upgrading to 6.x, I Can No Longer Connect to My Server
When Trying to Connect, It Just Hangs
