FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

FTP is a way of transferring files over the Internet from one computer to another and comes in very handy when you have large size files and/or several files and it's impossible or tedious to send them via email.  This is a great way to get your existing digital photo files, pdf files, brochures, etc to your web developer to use as content on your web site.

Accessing an FTP Directory

Unless the ftp location/address you were given is "anonymous", then you'll need to get a login name and password for this ftp location.  Many publicly accessible ftp directories have anonymous login, but when you are transferring files with a private business, you'll likely need to get ftp login information from them before you will be able to gain access to their ftp directory.

FTP Software

If you're using a PC with IE6 you can ftp right through/from the URL address field in the browser. This does NOT work on a Mac platform. 

An alternative is to download free or inexpensive FTP software.

For Windows:

"9.95 FTP" is a directory based, drag & drop Windows application which works well.  Or, Google on the phrase FTP software for Windows to find a variety of windows ftp software options.

For Mac:

"FTP Wizard" is a drag and drop ftp program with 'scriptable' targets.  This means you can configure it to automatically ftp different files to different serves and file locations. More information on FTP Wizard at Apple Computer Inc. or Download.com

Or, Google on "FTP software for Mac" for a variety of mac ftp software options.