If your FTP connection suddenly stops working or FileZilla reports a TLS-related error, the cause may be an outdated TLS version configured in the application.
Modern FTP servers require secure connections using newer TLS versions, such as TLS 1.2 or TLS 1.3, while support for older versions like TLS 1.0 and TLS 1.1 has been discontinued due to security concerns.
Table of Contents
Contents
- What Is TLS?
- Why TLS Versions Matter
- Configuring TLS in FileZilla
- Troubleshooting Connection Issues
What Is TLS?
TLS (Transport Layer Security) is a cryptographic protocol that secures communication between your computer and a remote server.
TLS provides:
- Data encryption
- Data integrity protection
- Server authentication
- Protection against eavesdropping and data tampering
When using FTP over TLS (FTPS), all login credentials and transferred files are protected during transmission.
Why TLS Versions Matter
Older versions of TLS, such as:
TLS 1.0
TLS 1.1
are no longer considered secure and are no longer supported by most hosting providers, web browsers, and modern applications.
Current standards typically support:
TLS 1.2
TLS 1.3
Using a supported TLS version helps ensure secure and reliable FTP connections.
Configuring TLS in FileZilla
Step 1
Open FileZilla.
Step 2
From the top menu, select:
Edit → Settings
Step 3
In the settings window, select:
Connection
from the menu on the left.
Step 4
Locate the:
TLS Settings
or
TLS Options
section.
Step 5
Ensure that FileZilla is configured to use:
Default TLS Version
or, if a version must be selected manually:
TLS 1.2
Step 6
Click:
OK
to save the changes.
Recommended FTP Encryption Settings
When creating or editing a site profile in FileZilla, use:
Protocol
FTP - File Transfer Protocol
Encryption
Require explicit FTP over TLS
Logon Type
Normal
Then enter your FTP username and password.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
If the connection still fails after changing the TLS settings:
Update FileZilla
Ensure you are using the latest version of FileZilla, which includes support for current TLS standards.
Verify FTP Credentials
Check that:
- Hostname is correct
- Username is correct
- Password is correct
- FTP account is active
Check Firewall or Antivirus Software
Some security software may block encrypted FTP connections.
Temporarily disable the software for testing purposes or add an exception for FileZilla.
Verify Server Details
Confirm that you are using the correct:
- FTP hostname
- Port number
- Encryption mode
provided by your hosting service.
Summary
TLS protects your FTP connection by encrypting communication between your computer and the server.
If FileZilla reports TLS-related connection errors:
- Open Edit → Settings.
- Navigate to Connection → TLS Settings.
- Use the default TLS configuration or select TLS 1.2.
- Save the changes and reconnect.
Using a modern TLS version ensures secure file transfers and compatibility with current hosting infrastructure.