Learn How to Fix FTP Folder Error, Windows cannot access this folder issue quickly and easily.
FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is a widely used method for transferring files between computers over the internet. It is commonly used for uploading and downloading files from a website's server. However, like any other technology, FTP can also encounter errors that can disrupt its functionality. One such error is the FTP Folder Error, which states 'Windows cannot access this folder'. This error can be frustrating and hinder your work, but it can be fixed with a few simple steps. In this article, we will discuss how to fix this FTP Folder Error on your Windows PC.
How to Fix FTP Folder Error, Windows cannot access this folder
Perform these preliminary checks:
Before jumping into any troubleshooting steps, it is essential to perform some preliminary checks to ensure that the error is not caused by any other underlying issue. Firstly, make sure that your internet connection is stable and working correctly. Sometimes, a weak or intermittent internet connection can cause this error to occur. Also, check if the FTP server you are trying to access is currently online and accessible. If the server is down or undergoing maintenance, you might encounter this error. Once you have ruled out these possibilities, you can move on to the actual troubleshooting steps.
Add the network location shortcut in Windows:
If you are trying to access an FTP site via the File Explorer, you might encounter the 'Windows cannot access this folder' error. In such cases, you can try adding the network location shortcut in Windows to resolve the issue. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Open the File Explorer and navigate to the 'This PC' section on the left-hand side.
2. Right-click on any empty space and select 'Add a network location'.
3. In the 'Add Network Location' wizard, click on 'Next'.
4. Select 'Choose a custom network location' and click 'Next'.
5. In the 'Internet or network address' field, enter the FTP address of the site you are trying to access.
6. Click 'Next' and then 'Finish'.
7. Now, try accessing the FTP site again, and the error should be resolved.
Allow FTP port in Windows Firewall:
Sometimes, the FTP Folder Error can occur due to the Windows Firewall blocking the FTP port. In such cases, you can allow the FTP port in the Firewall settings to fix the issue. Here's how:
1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to 'System and Security' > 'Windows Defender Firewall'.
2. Click on 'Advanced settings' on the left-hand side.
3. In the Inbound Rules section, click on 'New Rule' on the right-hand side.
4. In the New Inbound Rule Wizard, select 'Port' and click 'Next'.
5. Select 'TCP' and enter '21' as the specific local ports.
6. Click 'Next' and select 'Allow the connection'.
7. Click 'Next' and select the network type that the rule applies to.
8. Give the rule a name and click 'Finish'.
9. Repeat the above steps for the 'FTP Server' rule, using '20' as the specific local port.
10. Try accessing the FTP site again, and the error should be resolved.
Delete or reset passwords for the problematic FTP site via the Registry:
If you have recently changed the login credentials for the FTP site, the old password might be causing the Folder Error. In such cases, you can try deleting or resetting the passwords for the problematic FTP site via the Registry. Here's how:
1. Press 'Windows + R' to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type 'regedit' and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\FTP\Accounts
4. In the right-hand pane, you will see a list of FTP sites you have accessed.
5. Right-click on the site causing the error and select 'Delete' to remove it.
6. Alternatively, you can right-click on the site and select 'Modify' to reset the password.
7. Close the Registry Editor and try accessing the FTP site again. The error should be resolved.
Switch to another FTP client software:
If none of the above methods work, you can try switching to another FTP client software. There are various free and paid FTP client software available, such as FileZilla, Cyberduck, and WinSCP. These software offer similar functionalities and can help you access the FTP site without any errors.
In conclusion about How to Fix FTP Folder Error, Windows cannot access this folder, the FTP Folder Error, which states 'Windows cannot access this folder', can be fixed by following the above methods. It is essential to perform the preliminary checks and try the simple solutions before moving on to more advanced troubleshooting steps. By following these methods, you can resolve the error and continue using FTP to transfer files seamlessly.
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