Defining a remote site

Hi Clarissa,

If you are getting an error message saying dreamweaver cannot connect to the remote site, then you are likely using incorrect credentials - double check the ftp host address, username and password with 1&1.

The Host Directory is the directory on your hosting account that contains all the web site files. Eg. you may log in using FTP and come to a 'user home' directory with all your web site settings. Within that directory may be a 'httpdocs' or 'wwwroot' directory (or similar) that contains all your web site files. Check with 1&1.

Note: a directory is also known as a folder.

You want to upload your local files to your host directory, not the 'user home' directory. Therefore, you should put the 'host directory' (once you know it) into your Remote Site settings in Dreamweaver. This saves the hassle of 'going in' to that folder each time you connect, and ensures you are uploading your local files to the correct folder.

Often, it is necessary to connect using Dreamweaver WITHOUT the host directory supplied. Look at all the directories you see when you connect, note down the host directory. Then go back into remote site settings, type the host directory and connect again. This time when you connect, you should see all your web site document files.

Other connection issues could be:

(a) No internet connection - for example, check if you can browse to google on your computer.

(b) Firewall is blocking Dreamweaver - ensure your personal firewall is allowing Dreamweaver access to the internet, if you have a personal firewall installed.

(c) Last resort if still no luck: Firewall at host may be blocking your access - check with 1&1 if there is any firewall restrictions at their end. If there is, you may need to get your IP address added to their administrative IP on their firewall, or use VPN gateway to make the connection.

Let me know how you get on.

Regards, Rich