How to install an FTP server on Windows?

Would you like to set up an FTP server on your Windows server? With FileZilla Server, it’s very easy. In this guide, I will show you step by step how to proceed and how to assign specific folder permissions to a user.

Guide

Step 1: Download and install FileZilla Server

  1. Visit the FileZilla website and download the latest version of FileZilla Server.
  2. Run the installation file and follow the installation instructions. Make sure to keep the default ports.

Step 2: Configure FileZilla Server

  1. Start FileZilla Server and open the admin interface.
  2. Log in using the default information (if you kept the default values during installation).

Step 3: Create a user

  1. In the admin interface, click on “Edit” and then on “Users”.
  2. In the new window, click on “Add” and enter a username. Confirm with “OK”.
  3. Select the newly created user and go to “Shared folders”.

Step 4: Set folder permissions

  1. Click on “Add” under “Shared folders” and select the directory that the user should have access to.
  2. Set the permissions for the user, such as read, write, delete, etc.

Step 5: Set a password

  1. While you have the user selected in the “Users” window, go to “General”.
  2. Enable the checkbox “Password”.
  3. Enter a secure password and confirm it. Example:
  • Username: ftpuser
  • Password: SecurePassword123!

Step 6: Start and test the server

  1. Click “OK” to save the changes.
  2. Start the FileZilla Server by clicking on “Server” and then “Start” in the admin interface.
  3. Test the FTP connection with an FTP client by entering the IP address of your server, the username, and the password.

Important note about the firewall

Don’t forget to open the required ports in your firewall. Here is a helpful guide: Open Windows Firewall ports.

Quick guide: Opening ports

To ensure the smooth operation of your FTP server, certain ports need to be opened in your firewall:

  1. FTP port 21: For the standard FTP connection.
  2. Passive FTP ports (range 50000-51000): For passive FTP connections.

Follow these steps to open the ports:

  1. Open Windows Firewall with Advanced Security.
  2. Click on “Inbound Rules” and then “New Rule”.
  3. Select “Port” and click “Next”.
  4. Select “TCP” and enter the specific port or range (e.g. 21, 50000-51000).
  5. Select “Allow the connection” and click “Next”.
  6. Select the profiles for which the rule should apply and click “Next”.
  7. Give the rule a name (e.g. “FTP Ports”) and click “Finish”.

With this guide, your FTP server should be ready to use. Good luck!

What is the difference between KVM 2.0 and 3.0?

We have released a new generation of configurable KVM Root Servers. Let’s explain the differences.

New pricing structure

To accommodate all the new features of the web interface as well as reflect the quality of the servers, we have improved the pricing structure. The IPv4 address is now additionally calculated in the configurator. You can now book 3 additional IP addresses. The price per IP address is reduced to 0.99 Euro.

Traffic and bandwidth

Our KVM Servers 3.0 now come with 10 TB of high-speed traffic per month and up to 2 Gbit/s connection speed. Previously, it was only 2 TB with a maximum speed of 1 Gbit/s. Please note that the network traffic is subject to a strict policy.

We throttle server traffic and reserve the right to terminate the contract without notice if the following traffic is detected:

  • VPN traffic outside your own household
  • Traffic through any kind of Tor nodes
  • Torrent involving copyright-protected material
  • Proxy (similar) traffic outside your own household
  • IPTV
  • 24/7 livestreams to Twitch/YouTube, etc.

Otherwise, we are relatively unconcerned about your traffic behavior.

New web interface functions, features, and benefits

New functions for the Cloud Manager will no longer be available for the 2.0 servers. So if you want to benefit from the latest web interface features, you should get a KVM 3.0 server.

How long can I keep my old server?

Existing servers can still be used. They will continue to run as long as the server is paid for.

Can I migrate the server?

Direct migration is not possible. You would need to order a new server and set it up. You can create a backup of your old server and restore it on your new server. With prior agreement, we can transfer the old IP address to the new server for a fee of 5.00 Euro.

Affordable alternative

If you are not satisfied with the pricing of the new KVM Root Servers, we have something else for you: Our Smart Value Root Servers. These are packages based on KVM technology, but cheaper and with less flexibility.

If you only need a server without all the bells and whistles, the Smart Value Root Servers are perfect for you. We have already summarized the difference here.

What does the promotional price mean for Smart Value Root Servers?

We now offer pre-configured packages. These packages are cheaper than the configurable option. Find out more here.

What exactly do I save with the Smart Value Root Server?

The advantage is clear: when you choose one of our Smart Value Root Servers, you save immediately and consistently compared to the regular price of a configurable KVM Server. And the best part? You get this saving with a server that is hardware-identical – meaning it has the same number of cores, RAM, and storage space.

Does that mean I get less flexibility?

Not necessarily. The Smart Value Root Server is designed for projects where you have a clear idea of your requirements and they don’t change constantly. For dynamic requirements that need more specific and frequent adjustments, a configurable server might make more sense. However, even with Smart Value servers, you have the flexibility to switch between packages or add additional resources at any time as your project grows.

How can I be sure that a Smart Value Root Server is the right choice?

We recommend using our Server Finder. With just a few clicks, you’ll receive a recommendation that best suits your project – whether it’s a Smart Value or configurable option. This way, you can be sure that you not only save money but also get the exact performance you need.

What features are not available with Smart Value Root Servers?

If you choose a Smart Value Root Server, you should be aware that some options available with configurable servers are not included or are different:

  1. Contract Flexibility: Smart Value Servers cannot be canceled on an hourly basis via the web interface. The server will run for as long as you have ordered it in advance with your balance.
  2. Customization: There is no granular upgrade or downgrade function. Adjustments in fine increments, as found with configurable servers, are not possible here.
  3. Operating System Selection: Windows is not available by default with Smart Value Servers, but you can install it yourself via a custom ISO if necessary.
  4. IP Addressing: An IPv4 address is not included by default but can be added as an optional feature.
  5. DDoS Profile for IPv6: Setting a specific DDoS profile for IPv6 addresses is not possible with these servers.
  6. Data Volume: Compared to configurable servers, the included traffic volume is lower: you will receive 2 TB instead of 10 TB of traffic (KVM 3.0) per month.
  7. Network Speed: The maximum network speed is limited to 1 Gbit/s with Smart Value Servers, while configurable servers can reach speeds of up to 5 Gbit/s.

What to do if there is no internet connection after Windows installation?

It can happen that there is no internet connection after a fresh installation of Windows on your server. This problem occurs frequently and is usually caused by not having a DNS server configured in the network settings. But don’t worry, we have a simple solution for this.

Problem

You have just installed Windows on your server and find that you have no access to the internet. This can be quite frustrating, especially if you want to continue setting up your server. This problem is usually caused by Windows not configuring a DNS server by default, which is necessary for name resolution and thus accessing websites on the internet.

Solution

VionityCP: Advanced Server Management

Fortunately, we have a special feature in the Cloud Manager that can solve this problem with just a few clicks. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Log in to the Cloud Manager: Use your login credentials to sign in to our web interface.
  2. Navigate to the advanced management options: In the main menu of the Cloud Manager, you will find the panel “Advanced Management Options”. Click on it to proceed.
  3. Set DNS server: In the advanced management options, you will find a button labeled “Set DNS server (automatically sets the nameservers in the network adapter)”. Click on this button.
  4. Wait for automatic configuration: After clicking on the button, the DNS servers will be automatically set in your network adapter. This should not take long.

Once the process is completed, your server should be able to connect to the internet. You can confirm this by trying to open a website in a browser or by executing a ping command in the command line.

What are the differences between configurable and package servers?

If you have to choose between a configurable server and a package server, there are a few differences you should consider. Package servers, often referred to as “Smart Value Root Servers”, offer solid performance and excellent value for money. They are a smart choice if you value a cost-effective solution with reliable basic features and want to keep an eye on your budget. These servers are particularly suitable if you do not need extensive web interface functions and are looking for a reliable platform without long-term commitment.

On the other hand, configurable servers offer maximum flexibility and are ideal for projects that evolve and grow. They allow you to customize and even expand server resources such as CPU, RAM, and storage space. These servers seamlessly adapt to the requirements of your project, whether you prefer Linux or Windows.


Here is a list of points that differ between the two types of servers:

  • Price advantage: Smart Value Root Servers offer a price advantage due to less flexibility.
  • Flexibility: Configurable servers are maximally flexible in adjusting resources.
  • Scalability: With configurable servers, you can scale CPU, RAM, and NVMe as needed.
  • Customization of hardware: Hardware components can be freely chosen for configurable servers.
  • Operating system: While configurable servers support various operating systems such as Windows Server 2019/2022, package servers only offer Linux systems and an ISO install system.
  • Web interface functions: If you don’t place much value on extensive web interface functions, package servers can be a good choice.
  • Immediate termination: You can return configurable servers at any time and receive the remaining term as credit. This is not possible with package servers.
  • Customer service: Both server variants offer the same 24/7 customer service via ticket.

Ultimately, it depends on what is most important for your project: cost optimization or the ability to tailor your server exactly to your needs.

Extend Windows Server Trial Period (Windows Rearm)

If you rent a Windows Server from us, we automatically equip the server with an evaluation (trial) license. This license is valid for 180 days and can be used during the system setup. After this period, a valid Windows license must be provided.

When the trial period ends, the Windows Server will automatically shut down.

Resetting the Trial Period

If your 180-day trial period is not enough, you can reset your server’s trial period up to 5 times.

Open the Windows Command Prompt as an Administrator (cmd) and enter the following command:

slmgr.vbs /rearm

This command resets the trial license period that has already elapsed. After entering this command, a server restart is necessary.

Your server is now usable for another 180 days.

License Terms

It is important to note that failing to activate Windows, even if the system seems to work fine after the intended period, constitutes a violation of the license terms agreed upon with Microsoft.

Why is the RAM usage displayed differently in htop compared to VCP?

You have probably experienced this before: you use tools like htop, free -h, or take a look at /proc/meminfo on your Linux server and find that the RAM usage differs. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many developers encounter this question. We want to help you understand these differences and shed light on the Linux memory management.

It can also happen in the web interface that you see something different from what is shown in htop.

Understanding Linux Memory Management

Linux manages the Random Access Memory (RAM) in a complex way to ensure efficient resource utilization. The memory is not only used by active applications but also for caching data to improve system performance. This often leads to confusion when reading the actual memory usage.

Why htop shows something different from free -h and /proc/meminfo

  • htop: This interactive tool shows the processes and their memory usage in real-time. htop classifies memory into different categories (e.g., used, free, buffered, cached), which can result in higher utilization values since it also includes memory reserved for caching and buffering.
  • free -h: The free command provides an overview of the total memory and the used, free, and memory used by buffers and cache. The -h option ensures a easily readable output. The discrepancy with htop can be due to the different interpretation of “free” and “available”.
  • /proc/meminfo: This virtual file contains detailed information about the memory status of the system. It is the most comprehensive source of memory data, providing numerous entries for different memory types and reservations. However, interpreting this data requires in-depth technical understanding.

The differences in displaying RAM usage between different tools result from their different approaches to classifying and measuring memory. Deep understanding of Linux memory management helps in correctly interpreting and utilizing this information. Our developments aim to provide you with precise and useful tools to optimize the management of your virtual servers.

vServer with OpenVZ are discontinued. What happens next?

Although OpenVZ is up-to-date in terms of security, its limited features, lack of kernel modules, and numerous restrictions no longer meet our quality standards. In order to provide our customers with the best performance, optimal quality, and security, we have decided to discontinue this product line with immediate effect.

What does this mean for existing customers?

Virtual servers with OpenVZ will no longer be sold.
Servers from active contracts will continue to run.

What does this mean for you?

For now, nothing changes for you. Your virtual server will continue to run uninterrupted, and you do not need to take any immediate action. However, the sale of new OpenVZ servers will be discontinued, which will ultimately lead to a reduction in the use of this platform. We commit to informing you in a timely manner before any service discontinuation occurs and an extension of your services is no longer possible. This transition phase is set for several months to give you enough time for a smooth migration.

Your options for a seamless transition

We want to make the transition as easy and beneficial as possible for you. Therefore, we offer you special migration offers:

  • vServer replacement: The new root server “Smart Value”: Take advantage of the previous shop discount plus an additional migration discount of 5%.
  • IP address transfer: Your existing IP address can be transferred for a one-time service fee of €5.00.
  • Migration timeframe: A migration period of 7 days is granted.

We thank you for your understanding and flexibility during this transition phase. If you have any further questions or would like to take advantage of one of our migration offers, our customer service is available to assist you at any time.

Terms

  • What is Configurable Root Server 3.0?
    Configurable Root Servers of the 3rd generation are our most comprehensive offerings. In addition to numerous features in the cloud manager, we also offer high transfer rates, free backups, and various other options. Furthermore, a refund of the remaining balance is possible on a per-second basis if a project is terminated prematurely.
  • What is a root server “Smart Value”?
    Root servers from the “Smart Value” series are predefined root server packages offered by us with fewer options, transfer rates (network speed), and traffic as a cost-effective alternative to the “Configurable Root Server 3.0”. A Smart Value root server can even be ordered without an IPv4 address and operated exclusively on IPv6. It should also be noted that a Smart Value root server cannot be returned on a per-second basis like the “Configurable Root Server 3.0” servers.

Questions and Answers

Can I still buy a vServer with OpenVZ virtualization?
No, we no longer offer the sale of OpenVZ servers.

Can I easily convert my OpenVZ server to KVM?
No, unfortunately, that is not possible. The virtual hard drives are not compatible with each other. Therefore, you will have to set up your server again. We give you up to 7 days for this, even if the OpenVZ server would expire in the meantime.

Where can I now get affordable virtual servers?
We are currently working on the pricing structure for our new KVM product lines. We want to enable an affordable entry while still reflecting advantages, quality, and features in a fair price.

How long can I still use my virtual server (OpenVZ)?
The transition period depends on the natural decline in servers (expiration) on the still active OpenVZ host systems. If a certain threshold is reached, we will examine further possibilities.

Can I install Windows Server in a language other than German?

Yes, it is possible to install Windows Server in a different language. However, by default, our automatic installer only provides Windows Server in German. This default setting is intended to appeal to a wide user base and simplify the installation process for most of our customers.

Installing a different language

What do I need to do to install Windows Server in a different language?

If you want to use Windows Server in a language other than German, you need to perform a manual installation. This means starting the Windows Server installation with a specific ISO file in the desired language. You can find more information on how to use ISO files here.

The manual installation of Windows Server in a different language requires a basic understanding of server management and configuration. Make sure to carefully follow all necessary steps to ensure a correct installation and setup of your server.

Is there support for manual installation?

We provide guides and support for the process of uploading and installing using an ISO file. For specific questions regarding the installation or configuration of Windows Server in a different language, we recommend consulting the official Microsoft resources or our community forums, where you can find help and advice from other experienced users.

Can I run a VPN server on my server?

Basically, it is okay to run your own VPN server on your vServer. However, there are some restrictions.

Restrictions on virtual servers

In order to continue offering traffic based on the Fair Use principle, we restrict some use cases on our vServers.

VPN can be used under the following conditions:

  • Only for private purposes
  • The VPN access is only used by yourself and is not publicly operated
  • On virtual servers under 10€, traffic should remain below 1TB/month
  • On all other virtual servers, the total traffic must not exceed 2.5TB/month

To bypass these restrictions, additional traffic can be booked.