How to Bulk Upload Files & Media to WordPress via FTP

Hey there friend! You know how I’m always on the lookout for cool tricks to make my WordPress life easier? Well I recently stumbled upon this awesome method for uploading files to WordPress in bulk and I just have to share it with you!

It’s all about FTP (File Transfer Protocol) – think of it as a superhighway for moving files directly to your website. This is way more efficient than using the default Media Library especially when you’ve got a ton of images videos or other media to upload.

Ready to ditch those “upload limit exceeded” messages and conquer those massive media libraries? 🤯 Learn the ultimate guide to bulk uploading files to WordPress with FTP

Why You Might Need to Bulk Upload Files to WordPress

Ready to ditch those “upload limit exceeded” messages and conquer those massive media libraries? 🤯 Learn the ultimate guide to bulk uploading files to WordPress with FTP

The Media Library is a great tool but it has its limitations especially when it comes to size and number of files.

You know how those dreaded “upload limit exceeded” messages can pop up? That’s where FTP comes in.

Here are a few scenarios where bulk uploading with FTP really shines:

• Massive Image Galleries: Want to showcase a huge collection of photos? FTP lets you upload them all at once without stressing out the Media Library.
• Video Projects: When you’re working with big video files FTP helps you bypass those upload limits and get your content online faster.
• Importing Lots of Content: Imagine migrating content from another website or adding a huge library of resources. FTP makes the process super smooth.

How to Bulk Upload Files to WordPress via FTP: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright let’s get our hands dirty! Here’s how to bulk upload files to WordPress using FTP:

Step 1: The FTP Connection: Your Gateway to the Server

1. FTP Client is Your Key: First things first we need a way to connect to your website. A popular and free FTP client is called FileZilla. It’s super user-friendly and works like a charm.
2. Credentials are Your Passcode: To gain access you’ll need your FTP credentials. These are usually provided by your web hosting company. Look for things like your hostname username password and port number.
3. Connect to Your Site: Open FileZilla enter your credentials and click “Quickconnect” – you’re now on your way!

Step 2: Navigate to the “uploads” Folder: Your Media Destination

1. File Explorer View: After connecting you’ll see a file explorer-like view of your website files. Think of it as a map to your website’s structure.
2. Finding the “uploads” Folder: Now we need to find the “uploads” folder. It’s usually located under this path: public_html → wp-content → uploads.
3. Drag and Drop Magic: Drag your media files from your local computer into the “uploads” folder in FileZilla. It’s like transferring files between folders on your computer except you’re working on your website now!

Step 3: Registering Your Files: Making Them Part of the Media Library

1. Files Are on the Server But Not Yet in the Library: Here’s the catch – FTP uploads files to your website but they’re not automatically visible in the Media Library. We need to register them.
2. Add From Server Plugin: Your Registration Assistant: This plugin makes the process super easy. Install and activate it then navigate to Media → Add From Server.
3. Select and Import: Choose the “uploads” folder you used in Step 2 select the files you want to register and click “Import.”

Alternative Ways to Bulk Upload Files: Expanding Your Options

you’re probably thinking “What if I don’t want to use FTP? Are there other ways?” Of course there are!

Let’s explore some of the alternatives:

1. Media from FTP Plugin: Scheduling Your Media Import

This plugin offers a bit more functionality than the Add From Server plugin.

You can even schedule media imports to run automatically!

• Install and Activate: Grab the plugin from the WordPress Plugin Directory and get it running.
• Scheduling Your Media Import: This is where the magic happens. Set it up to automatically register your files and you can sit back and relax.

2. Upload Media by Zip Plugin: Your ZIP-Based Solution

Ever heard of ZIP files? This plugin lets you upload a whole bunch of files at once packaged neatly in a ZIP archive.

• ZIP It Up: Take your files compress them into a single ZIP file. This is a super helpful way to manage large groups of images or other media.
• Upload and Extract: The plugin will automatically unpack your ZIP file and add the contents to your Media Library.

3. WP-CLI: The Command-Line Superpower

For those who like to work with the command line WP-CLI can help.

It’s a little more technical but it offers incredible flexibility.

• Command Line Magic: WP-CLI lets you manage your WordPress site using commands. It’s a bit like using a code editor to edit files except you’re interacting with your website’s core functions.
• Powerful Commands: For example you can use the wp media import command to register files. With a few commands you can import files categorize them and even add titles and captions.

4. cPanel File Manager: When FTP Isn’t Available

If you’re using a hosting provider like cPanel you can upload files directly through their file manager.

It’s a good alternative if FTP isn’t your thing.

• Upload and Register: Use the file manager to upload your files and then use the Add From Server plugin to register them in your Media Library.

Wrapping Up: Your Bulk Upload Powerhouse

So there you have it! Bulk uploading files to WordPress via FTP is a must for making your website management more efficient and less stressful.

It’s all about taking control of your website’s files and making sure they’re ready for action!

Remember there are several ways to achieve this.

Whether you’re a FTP pro a plugin enthusiast or a command-line wizard you’ll find the right method to manage your media like a boss!

Let me know if you have any questions or if you want to dive deeper into any of these methods.

I’m always happy to help!

Ready to ditch those “upload limit exceeded” messages and conquer those massive media libraries? 🤯 Learn the ultimate guide to bulk uploading files to WordPress with FTP