Knowledgebase

Once you've built your website, the next crucial step is to upload the files to your Online Audience hosting account so that visitors can access it. StackCP provides a couple of primary methods for uploading your website files: using the built-in File Manager or using an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client. Let's explore both options.  

Method 1: Using the StackCP File Manager (Recommended for Beginners and Smaller Websites)

The File Manager is a web-based tool accessible directly through your StackCP control panel. It offers a user-friendly interface for managing your website's files and is ideal for beginners and for uploading smaller websites.  

1. Access the File Manager: Log in to your StackCP control panel provided by Online Audience. Look for a section labeled "Files" or "File Manager" in the main navigation menu or on the dashboard. Click on this option to open the File Manager.

2. Navigate to the Correct Directory: The File Manager will display your website's directory structure. You'll typically want to upload your website files to the public_html directory (or sometimes www). This directory is the web root, meaning files placed here will be accessible directly through your domain name (e.g., yourdomain.co.uk). Double-click on the public_html folder to open it.

3. Upload Your Files: There are usually two ways to upload files using the File Manager:

   • Drag and Drop: In most modern browsers, you can simply drag files and folders from your computer directly into the File Manager window. Look for an area that says "Drop files here to upload" or a similar message. The files will begin uploading automatically.
   • Upload Button: At the top of the File Manager interface, you'll find an "Upload" button. Click on it. This will open a new page or a pop-up window. You can then either drag and drop your files into the designated area or click a "Select Files" or "Browse" button to choose the files you want to upload from your computer.

4. Monitor the Upload Progress: As your files upload, you'll typically see a progress bar or status indicators. Once a file is successfully uploaded, it will appear in the File Manager window within the public_html directory.

5. Important: Ensure that your website's main HTML file (usually named index.html, index.htm, or default.html) is uploaded to the public_html directory. This is the file that will be displayed when someone visits your domain name.  

    

Method 2: Using an FTP Client (Recommended for Larger Websites or More Advanced Users)

FTP clients are standalone software applications designed specifically for transferring files between your computer and a web server. They offer more advanced features and are often preferred for uploading larger websites or managing complex file structures. Online Audience likely supports FTP access.  

1. Obtain Your FTP Credentials: You'll need specific FTP credentials to connect to your Online Audience hosting account. These credentials typically include:

   • FTP Hostname/Server: This is usually your domain name (e.g., yourdomain.co.uk) or a server address (e.g., ftp.yourdomain.co.uk).
   • Username: This is usually the same as your cPanel/StackCP username, but it might be a separate FTP username. Check your Online Audience account details or contact their support if you're unsure.
   • Password: This is the password associated with your FTP username.
   • Port: The default FTP port is 21. For secure FTP (SFTP), the port is often 22.

   You can usually find these details within your StackCP control panel, often in a section labeled "FTP Accounts" or similar. Online Audience might also have sent these details to you in your welcome email.

2. Choose an FTP Client: Popular FTP clients include FileZilla (free and widely used), Cyberduck (free for Mac and Windows), and Transmit (for Mac). Download and install your chosen FTP client.

3. Connect to Your Server: Open your FTP client and enter your FTP credentials (hostname, username, password, and port) into the appropriate fields. Click the "Connect" or "Quickconnect" button. Your FTP client will attempt to connect to your Online Audience server.  

    

4. Navigate to the public_html Directory: Once connected, you'll see two panes in your FTP client. One pane displays your local computer's files, and the other displays the files on your server. In the server pane, navigate to the public_html directory (or www).

5. Upload Your Files: Select the files and folders you want to upload from your local computer pane and drag them to the public_html directory in the server pane. Alternatively, you can right-click on the files and choose "Upload" or a similar option.

6. Monitor the Upload Progress: Your FTP client will display the progress of the file transfers. Once complete, your website files will be uploaded to your Online Audience server.

Important Considerations for Both Methods:

• File Organization: Ensure your website files are organized correctly within the public_html directory.
• Case Sensitivity: Linux-based servers (which are common) are often case-sensitive. Make sure your file names and links match exactly.  
   
• Permissions: In most cases, the default file permissions are sufficient. However, if you encounter issues, you might need to adjust them (using the File Manager or FTP client).
• Testing Your Website: After uploading your files, visit your domain name in a web browser to ensure your website is displaying correctly.
• Online Audience Support: If you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to contact Online Audience's support team for assistance. They are familiar with their specific StackCP configuration and can provide tailored guidance.

By following these steps, you can successfully upload your website files to your Online Audience hosting account using either the StackCP File Manager or an FTP client. Choose the method that best suits your comfort level and the size/complexity of your website.