frontpage server extensions and ftp

[transley]

For a long time I've used frontpapage server extensions to publish my website, and from time to time used ftp too. No harm was ever done. But not long ago, I learned that publishing to the same site with ftp AND server extensions alternately was a real no-no. (It will corrupt the extensions?) Whatever the reason, I ceased all ftp and even uninstalled my ftp program, and thought I'd dodged a bullet.

But, no sooner did I do that then, needless to say, I began to NEED to ftp files--cgi scripts and the like. To get around the fact that I couldn't ftp, I was opening up the folders and splitting the files into the ones I could safely upload via frontpage (binary) and leaving the text files on my computer. The only way I could figure out to get them into my cgi-bin was by opening them , copying them, and pasting them into the html editor on my server! (Is that one of the reasons I get so many 500 errors?!)

There HAS to be a better way. Now I want to try adding a content mangagement system (Limbo) to my site, even though I'm probably way over my head. But there is no question that I have to ftp those program files.

So--HOW do you frontpage users deal with the problem when you need to upload files via ftp, without corrupting the extensions? I have looked all over for advice, but all I find are warnings. Am I missing something obvious? (btw, I'd rather not delete the extensions, if I can help it, as I do find publishing via frontpage very convenient for the way I work normally).

Thanks in advance

[jimbeetle]

Hi transley,

Welcome to Webmaster World.

I've been using Frontpage since the 95 version and have never really had any real problems using it in conjunction with an FTP program. That's not to say that there aren't issues, I've just never experienced them.

Many FP extension quirks can be handled by simply republishing the entire site. In the case of FP extensions becoming corrupted, which can happen maybe once every year or so with just "normal" use when something goes flaky on the server, most hosting packages allow you to uninstall and reinstall the extensions with a click of a button from the control panel.

Always be sure to uninstall extensions first, then reinstall, so the installation program will be sure to replace any corrupted files. Uninstalling also removes the .htacess file, installing writes over any that already exists, so be sure to keep this in mind. You'll also have to reprotect any FP protected directories.

Of course, your mileage might vary.

[Corey Bryant]

You can always go back in & re-install the extensions. Most control panels have this feature.

The problem is - FP wants to control everything. And when you FTP a file - there is not the _vti_cnf file either to correspond with this.

-Corey