> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.couchdrop.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.couchdrop.io/managed-file-transfer/ftp-and-ftps/connect-to-external-ftp-ftps-servers-and-endpoints.md).

# Connect to external FTP/FTPS servers and endpoints

Learn how to connect Couchdrop to an external FTP/S endpoint or server folder

Couchdrop can be connected to any external FTP/s in a few simple steps. When connected, you can upload and download files with an external FTP/s provider from Couchdrop. 

{% hint style="warning" %}
FTPs is a different protocol from SFTP. If you are unsure if you need FTP, check with your provider, as you may need to use the more common [SFTP connector](/managed-file-transfer/sftp/connect-to-external-sftp-servers-and-endpoints.md).
{% endhint %}

## How it works

Similar to all connections in Couchdrop, all external FTP connections appear as [virtual folders](/storage/file-browser.md) in Couchdrop. Once connected, Couchdrop can transfer to and from the external FTP server directly or through automations. 

You can also take advantage of Couchdrop’s automation features and inbound transfer methods, such as mailboxes and upload links, to streamline and simplify data transfers with external FTP/s servers.

## Connecting to an external FTP/S server

To connect to an FTP/S server, you need to add the details of the endpoint and authenticate the connection in Couchdrop. 

{% hint style="warning" %}

#### Before you start

To connect to an external FTP server with Couchdrop, you will need:

* The hostname or IP address and port number for the external server
* A username and password for the external server.
* A unique folder name in Couchdrop
  {% endhint %}

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Create a new connection

In Couchdrop, click **+ Create → Connect to Partners/Providers**, or select **+ Add Connection** from the **Integrations** tab.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Select FTP/s Server

Select **FTP/s Server** from the list of available connections.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Configure the connection

Enter the required connection details for the external FTP/s server.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Test and save the connection

Test the connection, choose a subfolder from the folder selector, then save the integration.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Most FTP providers use P**ort 21.** If this doesn't work, check with your provider for the port number.
{% endhint %}

## Frequently asked questions

<details>

<summary>Can we schedule a copy from one FTP server to the cloud?</summary>

Yes - this is Couchdrop's bread and butter. You can configure a connection to an external FTP server - select a folder and then automate a transfer using a Scheduled Transfer Automation that polls the FTP server for new files and then moves them. &#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can Couchdrop provide Static IPs that we can whitelist?</summary>

Yes - Contact our support team to request [static IPs](/security-and-governance/static-ips.md).&#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do you support TLS?</summary>

Yes - Connecting via TLS is enabled by default with external connections

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do you support implicit SSL for external FTP providers?</summary>

Not currently - Implicit SSL is not as secure as FTP via TLS. If this is a deal breaker for you - reach out to <support@couchdrop.io> and we can chat about options and workarounds

</details>

## Common issues and errors

<details>

<summary>Access denied</summary>

Access denied when browsing, uploading or downloading files generally means that you do not have adequate permissions with the external platform. Contact the external provider's support team to make sure you have permissions on their service.&#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>Timeout</summary>

A timeout normally occurs when there a firewall preventing access. Check with the external provider and talk to our support team about static IPs for the external vendor to whitelist.&#x20;

</details>