Disabling TLS/SSL in FileZilla

FileZilla is a free, open-source FTP client widely used to upload and download files to Web Hosting, VPS, and dedicated servers.

One of the most common connection errors looks like this:

Command:	MLSD
Error:	Connection timed out after 20 seconds of inactivity
Error:	Failed to retrieve directory listing
Status:	Disconnected from server

This usually happens when FileZilla tries to establish a secure connection (FTPS/TLS), but the server either doesn't support it or the certificate setup doesn't match what the client expects.

On Fornex servers, the simplest and most reliable solution is to switch to plain FTP (unencrypted).

How to disable TLS/SSL and use plain FTP

1. Open FileZilla.
2. Press Ctrl + S or go to File → Site Manager.
3. Select your saved site (or create a new one).
4. Go to the General tab.
5. In the Encryption dropdown, choose:
   Use plain FTP
6. Click Connect.

Selecting "Use plain FTP" in Site Manager

After this change, FileZilla should connect successfully and display the directory listing.

Useful notes

• Plain FTP sends both data and passwords in clear text — only use it over trusted networks (avoid public Wi-Fi).
• For secure file transfers, switch to SFTP instead (SSH File Transfer Protocol).
  In Site Manager, set Protocol to SFTP, port 22, and use your SSH credentials.
• If the error persists even after disabling TLS, double-check:
  • Correct IP address, username, and password
  • Port 21 is open on the server (it is by default on Fornex)
  • No IP block from your ISP or firewall