How to Set Up an FTP Site in Vista

File Transfer Protocol, or FTP, is a system for transferring files securely from one computer to another. Essentially, a location or web page is set up as an "FTP Site" and then other computers are given passwords to dial into this computer and transfer files. In Vista, FTP setup is made easier because Microsoft has included its own FTP-setup software instead of requiring you to download a third-party software from a different location. Setting up your FTP site in Vista is fairly straightforward and easy.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet connection

1. Double-click on "My Computer" from the desktop and then right-click inside the newly opened window. Select "Add a Network Connection" from the drop-down list that appears.

2. Click "Next" and "Choose a custom network location" in the setup wizard that pops up. Enter the name of the FTP site in the box that pops up within the wizard. Specify your user name in the next step and then give the location a referral name for later use.

3. Double-click the link in the location that you specified and then type in your password. Hit enter and then begin browsing just like in Microsoft Windows.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to type in your user name correctly or you will log in anonymously or not at all.

Resources

• The official Windows Help site with FTP instructions