Publishing Your Customized Bootstrap HTML Website

Publishing or going live with an HTML website using WinSCP is relatively simple compared to using terminal-based methods or other command-line tools. With WinSCP, you can use an intuitive graphical interface to upload your website files to a server, which makes the process less technical and more accessible for beginners or those who prefer not to deal with command-line syntax.
WinSCP is a free tool that also includes text editor that makes editing your HTML, CSS, JS and PHP files a breeze. These are some important facts:

  • FTP Credentials: You need access to the server’s FTP details, which include the host (server address), username, password, and possibly a port number (default is 21 for FTP).
  • Website Structure: Ensure you maintain a proper folder structure, especially for large websites, to keep everything organized and easy to manage.
  • File Permissions: Make sure files and directories are set with appropriate permissions (especially for scripts, images, or any executable files).
  • Testing: After uploading, always test the live website to ensure that everything works as expected (links, images, JavaScript functionality).
  • Backup: It’s always a good idea to keep a backup of your website files locally in case you need to revert or make changes.

In conclusion, WinSCP is a beginner-friendly tool for publishing an HTML website. Its ease of use, intuitive interface, and file management features make it a great choice for those who prefer to avoid the complexity of terminal commands or other more technical methods.

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Frequently Asked Questions

WinSCP is a free, open-source FTP client for Windows that allows you to easily transfer files between your local computer and a remote server. It supports FTP, SFTP, SCP, and WebDAV protocols.

FTP credentials are the login details required to connect to a remote server. These include:

  • Host: The server’s address (e.g., ftp.example.com).
  • Username: Your account username on the server.
  • Password: The password associated with the account.
  • Port: Typically, FTP uses port 21 (SFTP uses port 22).

Make sure your FTP credentials only have access to your public_html root folder. This is usually checked when you setup the FTP account in your cPanel.

After connecting to your FTP server in WinSCP:

  • In the left pane (local machine), find the files you want to upload.
  • Drag and drop the files from the left pane into the right pane (remote server).
  • Alternatively, you can right-click on the files and select “Upload.”

Once the upload is completed, visit the domain name and check to make sure the website is correctly displayed.

There may be several reasons if your website doesn’t appear after uploading:

  • Ensure that you uploaded all necessary files, including hidden ones like .htaccess.
  • Double-check the file paths and ensure they match the structure of your local files.
  • Ensure your index file (often index.html) is in the root directory.
  • Clear your browser cache or try visiting the site in incognito mode.
  • Check for permission issues (file/folder permissions might need to be adjusted).
  • Ensure your domain is pointing to the root folder correctly.

Yes, WinSCP can handle large files. However, the upload speed will depend on your internet connection and the server’s capacity. If you’re dealing with very large files, make sure your connection is stable, and monitor the transfer progress.

If your connection fails:

  • Check that your FTP credentials are correct.
  • Ensure your internet connection is stable.
  • Confirm the server is online and accepting FTP connections.
  • Check that you’re using the correct port (default for FTP is 21, SFTP is 22).
  • Look for any firewall or security software that may be blocking the connection.

Yes, WinSCP has an inbuilt editor that allows you to open and edit files directly on the server. Right-click a file in the remote pane and select “Edit” to open it in WinSCP’s editor. Alternatively, you can set up an external editor like Notepad++ for direct editing.

Absolutely! This is in fact what most of us, freelancer and professional developer do. You only need to familiarize yourself with the process.

Tools & Resources

These are most of the tools and resources we continuously use to develop HTML websites. For a comprehensive list, visit our resources and tools pages.

Domain Names

Buy all TLDs and save when you buy in bulk. Easy to manage DNS and overall settings.

Web Hosting

You will need a server for publishing your HTML website, and for working on remote files.

HTML Templates

Find great HTML templates for every project. Get creative designs and affordably.

Windows Laptop

A Windows laptop is the best tool for editing HTML files, specially necessary for local files.

WinSCP

WinSCP

This may be one of our most used tools. It allows us to connect remotely and update files.

Google Chrome

There are many free browsers, but we love Google Chrome and its many developer tools.