While the built-in file manager on your MintServers panel is great for quick edits and small uploads, moving large files like custom worlds, massive modpacks, or hundreds of plugins requires a dedicated SFTP client. Programs like FileZilla and WinSCP provide a secure, stable, and much faster way to transfer heavy files directly between your computer and your server.
Step 1: Locate Your SFTP Credentials
Before you can connect, you need to gather your server's specific login details.
- Log into your MintServers control panel.
- Select the server you want to connect to.
- On the left-hand sidebar, navigate to the Settings tab.
- Look for the section labeled SFTP Details. Here you will find your Server Address and your Username.
- Your SFTP Password is the exact same password you use to log into your MintServers web panel.
- If you logged in with Google or Discord, the password will be in your email. Look for the first email we sent to you called "Welcome to MintServers - Your Account Credentials" (check your spam folder just in case!).
Step 2: Choose Your SFTP Client
You only need to use one of these programs! Click on the app you prefer below to expand the step-by-step instructions and video guide.
Connecting with FileZilla (Windows, Mac, Linux)
FileZilla is one of the most popular and widely used free FTP clients available.
- Download and install the free FileZilla Client from their official website.
- Open FileZilla. At the very top of the window, you will see a Quickconnect bar with four empty boxes.
- In the Host box, paste the Server Address from your MintServers panel.
- In the Username box, paste your panel Username.
- In the Password box, type your MintServers panel password.
- In the Port box, type 2022 (this is the standard secure port for MintServers).
- Click the Quickconnect button. If a popup appears asking if you trust the host key, check the box to always trust it and click OK.
- You are connected! The left side of the screen shows your computer files, and the right side shows your server files. Simply drag and drop files between the two windows to transfer them.
Connecting with WinSCP (Windows Only)
WinSCP is a fantastic, lightweight alternative designed specifically for Windows users.
- Download and install WinSCP from their official website.
- Open WinSCP. A Login dialog box will automatically appear.
- Make sure the File protocol dropdown is set to SFTP.
- In the Host name box, paste the Server Address from your panel.
- In the Port number box, ensure it is set to 2022.
- In the User name box, paste your panel Username.
- In the Password box, type your MintServers panel password.
- Click the Login button at the bottom. If prompted with a security warning about an unknown server key, click Yes to trust it and continue.
- You are now connected! Similar to FileZilla, your local computer files are on the left and your server files are on the right. Drag and drop to transfer whatever you need.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Running into an error? Click on the issue you are experiencing below to find a quick fix.
Authentication Failed
This is almost always caused by a typo or password mismatch. Double-check that you are using your panel password, not your billing area password. If you used Google or Discord to sign up, remember to check your welcome email for the generated password. Also, ensure there are no accidental spaces copied at the end of your username or host address.
Connection Refused or Timed Out
This usually means the client is trying to connect to the wrong port. Make sure you manually typed 2022 into the Port box instead of leaving it blank. If the port is correct, check to see if your computer's firewall or antivirus is blocking the connection.
Transfer Failed or Dropped Connection
If your files keep failing to upload mid-transfer, it is likely because your server is currently running. Always click Stop on your MintServers panel before transferring large amounts of data. Alternatively, if you are uploading hundreds of tiny files, compress them into a .zip archive first, upload the single file, and then extract it using the panel's file manager to prevent timeouts.
No worries! Let's get you connected smoothly. If you have tried these steps and are still having trouble getting connected, just open a support ticket and our team will be happy to help you get your files transferred!