Managing files on a WordPress website is something every site owner has to deal with at some point.
Whether it’s uploading, editing, or troubleshooting, having the right method in place makes the process far easier and more reliable. The challenge is deciding which tool works best for your needs.
Two of the most common approaches are using a file manager plugin inside WordPress or connecting through FTP.
Before diving into what each option offers, let’s take a closer look at what they are and how they work, so you can decide which is the better fit for your workflow.
WordPress File Manager Plugin vs. FTP: What Are They?
As we told you, when it comes to managing files on your WordPress site, two primary methods are commonly used: installing a file manager plugin or connecting through FTP.
Both provide access to the inner workings of your website, yet the experience they offer is quite different. Knowing what each option involves will help you decide which one aligns better with your needs.
What is a WordPress File Manager Plugin?
A file manager plugin integrates directly into your WordPress dashboard, giving you the ability to view, upload, move, edit, and even delete files without leaving your site.
It’s designed for convenience, allowing users to manage their website’s files in a familiar environment without relying on external tools.
For beginners or those who value speed and accessibility, this approach often feels more intuitive.
What is FTP?
FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is a traditional method for connecting your computer to your website’s server.
To use it, you need an FTP client along with your site’s FTP login credentials.
Once connected, you have full access to your website’s files and directories. While FTP offers flexibility and control, it demands a certain level of technical comfort, especially for tasks like troubleshooting or advanced modifications. Both options serve the same purpose—giving you control over your WordPress files—but in very different ways.
This contrast is what makes the decision between them important for site owners.
To settle the debate, let’s bring on the good old pros and cons.
File Manager Plugins vs FTP: Pros and Cons
Both file manager plugins and FTP give you direct access to the core files of your WordPress website, but they serve users differently. The best way to understand their strengths and weaknesses is to weigh their pros and cons side by side.
File Manager Plugins
The biggest advantage of file manager plugins lies in their ease of use. They are tailored for WordPress users who want direct file access without juggling additional software or complex configurations.
Pros
- Built into WordPress: Manage files directly from the WordPress dashboard, eliminating the need for external tools or software.
- User-friendly interface: Familiar, intuitive design that mirrors traditional file explorers, making navigation simple for beginners.
- Quick edits: Edit, upload, copy, or move files right from the toolbar with just a few clicks—ideal choice for small fixes and routine tasks.
- Accessibility: Available anywhere you log into WordPress, with no dependency on your personal device or FTP client.
- Extra functionality: Many file manager plugins offer numerous amazing features that you can’t get from FTP.
Note: The attached image of the feature-rich toolbar above is a screenshot from Advanced File Manager: the best WordPress file manager plugin. It stands out from the rest due to its unique security and usability features. Later in this article, we will explore what makes it stand out from the rest.
Cons
While file manager plugins are convenient, they do have one limitation: they rely on WordPress itself. If your site is down or the dashboard becomes inaccessible, you won’t be able to use the plugin to make fixes.
FTP
FTP remains a reliable, long-standing method of file management. It is favored by developers and advanced users who need unrestricted access to their website’s directories.
Pros
- Complete server access: View and control every folder, file, and configuration on your hosting server.
- Robust for large tasks: More efficient for bulk uploads, downloads, or complex restructuring of files.
- Independent of WordPress: Works even if your WordPress dashboard is inaccessible, which is useful for fixing broken sites.
That being said, FTP is not without its drawbacks.
Cons
- Steeper learning curve: Requires an FTP client, login credentials, and basic technical knowledge.
- Time-consuming: Switching between tools and servers often slows down simple tasks that could be done in the blink of an eye using the plugin.
- Accessibility issues: You need to use a specific computer or device with the FTP client installed, making it less flexible than a dashboard-based option.
In short, FTP is geared toward users with technical expertise, while file manager plugins for WordPress offer accessibility and control for everyday WordPress management, even for those with limited technical knowledge or experience.
File Manager Plugins vs. FTP: At a Glance
All the details from the previous section may feel like a lot to process. To make things simpler, here’s a clean side-by-side comparison of File Manager Plugins and FTP so you can quickly see how they stack up.
| Aspect | File Manager Plugins | FTP |
| Ease of Use | Works directly inside the WordPress dashboard, intuitive for beginners. | Requires external client software and setup with credentials. |
| Accessibility | Accessible from anywhere with a WordPress login. | Depends on the FTP client installed on your device. |
| Learning Curve | Minimal. Offers a familiar interface, no technical setup needed. | A steeper learning curve. Demands technical comfort and understanding of file paths. |
| Speed of Access | Instant file management without leaving WordPress. | Involves launching clients and connecting manually each time. |
| Troubleshooting | Easier for small edits and quick fixes. | More powerful for advanced debugging and manual fixes. |
| Reliability | Dependent on WordPress being functional. | Works even if WordPress is down or inaccessible. |
| Security | Safe with proper role management and plugin updates. | Secure but prone to mistakes if used carelessly. |
| Best Suited For | Beginners, small-to-medium site owners, or anyone valuing convenience. | Developers, advanced users, or those managing complex customizations. |
Which One Should You Go with File Manager Plugin or FTP?
The choice between a File Manager Plugin and FTP largely depends on your needs and technical comfort.
If you prioritize convenience, speed, and managing your website from within WordPress itself, a File Manager Plugin is the clear winner. It’s especially useful for beginners, small businesses, or anyone who doesn’t want to deal with external software. Here are six other convincing reasons for using a File Manager plugin
On the other hand, if you prefer complete server-level control and don’t mind the learning curve, FTP remains a strong option.
For most WordPress users, however, a reliable file manager plugin is all you need because it simplifies everyday tasks while still providing powerful file-handling features.
Best Practices For File Management
Regardless of which method you use, how you manage your site’s files is just as important as the tool you choose. Keeping a few best practices in mind will protect your site and prevent costly mistakes:
- Keep Plugins Updated. Outdated plugins can introduce vulnerabilities. Always update your File Manager Plugin or FTP client to the latest version to maintain security and stability.
- Backup Before Editing Files. Whether you’re editing a theme file or replacing a plugin script, take a full backup beforehand. This ensures you can restore your site if something breaks.
- Use Strong Login Credentials. Secure your WordPress admin account or FTP access with strong, unique passwords. Additionally, implement other security measures, such as two-factor authentication, to enhance protection and prevent unauthorized access.
- Restrict Access to Trusted Users. Not every team member needs file-level access. Limit permissions to prevent accidental changes or security risks.
- Double-Check Before Deleting Files. A single deleted file can crash your site. Always verify before removing files and use backups to safeguard against errors.
By following these practices, you’ll minimize risks and maintain better control of your WordPress environment, no matter which file management method you choose.
Why Advanced File Manager Stands Out
As discussed earlier, let’s see why Advanced File Manager stands out as the best choice for file managers.
Here are its top features:
- Customizable Root Directory Access: Control which folders users can access and modify, keeping your file structure organized and reducing the risk of accidental changes to critical files.
- Complete File Operations: Copy, rename, edit, upload, download, and handle archives like ZIP, RAR, or TAR, as shown in the image earlier. This removes the need for an external FTP client.
- Drag-and-Drop Uploads: Easily upload files by dragging them into the interface. This feature speeds up workflow and makes managing multiple files simple, even for beginners.
- Media & Document Previews: Preview PDFs, images, audio, and video files instantly without downloading them. This saves time and helps avoid mistakes when handling important content.
- Frontend File Management: Give users or clients access to manage files, creating a document library from the front end. Perfect for membership sites, course platforms, or secure client portals.
- Role-Based & User-Specific Access: Assign permissions based on roles or individual users, ensuring only authorized people can view or modify certain files.
- Cloud Integration: Connect with cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive to manage files directly from your WordPress dashboard, keeping all your content in one place.
- Debug Code in Editor: Prevents saving the code if there is an error, thereby avoiding fatal errors.
Advanced File Manager balances ease of use, advanced functionality, and strong security, making it an ideal choice for WordPress users who want to jump over the complexity of FTP.
Final Remarks on File Manager Plugin vs FTP
Managing files is a vital part of running a WordPress site.
You will need to handle files to carry out tasks such as file editing for quick theme edits, uploading resources, or troubleshooting issues.
While FTP has long been a trusted method, WordPress File Manager plugins have made file access faster, easier, and far more accessible for everyday users.
If you value simplicity, security, and flexibility all in one place, a solution like Advanced File Manager is the best choice. It combines the power of FTP with the convenience of working inside WordPress.
Try Advanced File Manager now!
Frequently Asked Questions
cPanel File Manager is a browser-based tool that lets you manage your website’s files directly from your hosting dashboard. It’s quick to access, but the features are limited to those provided by your host.
FTP, on the other hand, requires an external client and login credentials to connect to your server. It provides more control and flexibility, but often feels less convenient for beginners compared to other options.
A WordPress file manager plugin allows you to access, edit, upload, and organize your site’s files directly from the WordPress dashboard. It removes the need for external tools like FTP clients, making file management faster and more convenient. Some plugins, like Advanced File Manager, go beyond the basics by offering features such as file previews, archiving, and role-based permissions, giving you even more control over your site.
Yes, several free FTP servers are available that let you set up and manage file transfers without cost. Popular options include FileZilla Server and Core FTP Server. These provide the essential functionality needed to transfer files between your computer and a web server. While free FTP servers are suitable for basic tasks, they lack the ease of use and additional features that WordPress file manager plugins provide directly within your dashboard.
