How to Fix ECONNREFUSED Server Error in FileZilla

FileZilla is one of the leading open-source file transfer protocol (FTP) applications, that helps transfer files between computers. However, it’s not uncommon for users to encounter a cryptic ‘ECONNREFUSED’ error when attempting to move files.

In this article, we’ll explain what the ECONNREFUSED error is, why your FTP may have been refused by the target server and how to solve the ECONNREFUSED error.

What is the ECONNREFUSED Error? 

The ECONNREFUSED error is a network-related error code relating to online file transfer protocols.

The error code flags when a user attempts to send a file through FileZilla but it fails to establish a transmission control protocol (TCP) connection with a server, and the server actively refuses the connection.

This error typically indicates that the server is not listening on a specified port or is unreachable.

Before performing a TCP, it’s important to verify the server’s availability, check the correct port number, and evaluate the network configuration for any issues or restrictions that might cause a connection refusal.

Terms Explained

• TCP: TCP stands for ‘transmission control protocol’ and is responsible for establishing and maintaining a reliable connection between devices over a network.
• FTP: FTP stands for ‘file transfer protocol’ and is a standard network protocol used for transferring files between a client and a server on a computer network.
• Port Number: A port number is a number used to distinguish specific processes or services running on a computer or network device. Regarding networking, a port number is associated with a specific protocol (like a TCP). Port numbers generally range from 0 – 65535.

Why is my FTP Connection Refused? 

There could be several reasons why your FTP connection is being refused. Some common causes include:

• An incorrect server address or port number.
• A firewall blocking FTP traffic.
• An FTP server not running or configured properly.
• Network connectivity issues.
• The server explicitly rejects the connection request.

It’s important to double-check your connection and ensure that your ECONNREFUSED errors aren’t caused by the above issues before attempting further troubleshooting.

How Do I Fix ECONNREFUSED Server Error in FileZilla?

If the ECONNREFUSED error is still happening, several steps can be taken to potentially solve the issue. These include:

• Verifying Server Address: Ensure that you have correctly entered the server address (hostname or IP address) in FileZilla.
• Check Port Number: Confirm that the port number specified in FileZilla matches the port number required by the FTP server. The default port is 21, but it can vary depending on the server configuration.
• Disable Firewall: Temporarily disable any firewall or antivirus software on your computer to check if it’s blocking the FTP connection. If the connection succeeds after disabling the firewall, adjust the firewall settings to allow FTP traffic.
• Verify Server Availability: Ensure that the FTP server is running and accessible. Contact the server administrator or hosting provider to confirm the server’s availability.
• Check Network Connectivity: Verify your internet connection and ensure there are no network issues or restrictions preventing connection.
• Use Passive Mode: In FileZilla, under the ‘transfer settings’ section, select ‘passive’ mode instead of ‘active’ mode. Passive mode often resolves connection issues caused by network configuration.
• Update FileZilla: Sometimes old versions of FileZilla can cause network connection errors. It’s important to ensure that FileZilla is up to date with the latest patch.
• Verify Username & Password: Double-check that the FTP username and password entered into FileZilla are correct and match the credentials required by the server.
• Test Another FTP Client: Try connecting to the FTP server using a different FTP client to determine if the issue is specific to FileZilla, or a broader network issue.
• Configure Antivirus Settings: It’s important to also configure antivirus settings to ensure that the ECONNREFUSED server error isn’t occurring because antivirus software is preventing the connection.

If issues continue to persist after following these steps, then it may be necessary to consult the server administrator or hosting provider for further assistance.

For persistent server connectivity problems, third-party VPS hosting by Knownhost could be a cost-effective alternative.

A potential cause of an ECONNREFUSED error could be a DDoS attack. To prevent this situation from happening, adequate DDoS protection is required.

For additional safeguards against debilitating DDoS server attacks on your online business, check out Knownhost’s DDoS protection service. Protect a website’s availability, reputation and customer trust with our advanced DDoS mitigation technology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How Do I Install a FileZilla Server?

A: To install FileZilla Server, download the installer from the official website, run the installer, and follow the installation prompts. The prompts will also ask you to configure server settings, set up user accounts, and start the server to get it running.

Q: How Do I Configure a FileZilla Server?

A: To configure FileZilla Server, open the FileZilla Server interface, and navigate to the “Settings” tab. Here, you can adjust the server settings — including choosing the port number, setting security options, and adjusting user permissions. When you’re done, simply save the changes.

Q: What Does ‘Could Not Connect to Server’ Mean?

A: “Could not connect to server” could be due to various factors such as incorrect server address, firewall restrictions, or server unavailability.