# Accessing All Site Files via SFTP with Root User in xCloud

> In xCloud, each site runs under a separate system user (called a site user) for improved security and separation. However, to access all site files across the

In xCloud, each site runs under a separate system user (called a **site user**) for improved security and separation. However, to access all site files across the server via SFTP (e.g. using FileZilla, Transmit, or Cyberduck), you can use the **root user with sudo privileges**. Follow the steps below:

### Step 1: Collect the Sudo Password for the Root User

When your server is first created in xCloud, you’ll receive a welcome email with the root user’s sudo credentials.

📩 Look for:

-   **User**: `root`
-   **Sudo Password**: (available in the email)

Example:

```
User: root  
Sudo Password: CSehTu5E1ab9ZXRn...
```

📌 **Keep this safe** – it’s needed for both SSH and SFTP access.

![](/_landing/docs/accessing-all-site-files-via-sftp-with-root-user-in-xcloud-collect-sudo-password-of-root-user-from-the-server-create-email.-.png)

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### Step 2: Confirm or Add `root` as a Sudo User (if needed)

To verify or add `root` as a sudo user:

1.  Go to your server dashboard in xCloud.
2.  Navigate to `Management` → `Sudo Users`.
3.  If not already present, add a new sudo user:
    -   **Username**: `root`
    -   **Password**: (use the one from the welcome email or set a new one)
    -   Attach your SSH key

📘 Detailed Doc: [Using Sudo and Site Users in xCloud](/docs/usudo-users-and-site-users-in-xcloud/)

![](/_landing/docs/accessing-all-site-files-via-sftp-with-root-user-in-xcloud-create-root-user-via-sudo-user.png)

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### Step 3: Connect via SFTP

Use any SFTP client such as FileZilla, Cyberduck, or Transmit.

**Connection Details:**

-   **Protocol**: `SFTP`
-   **Address**: Your server’s IP
-   **Username**: `root`
-   **Authentication**: SSH Key or Password (from email)
-   **Remote Path**: `/var/www/`  
    (This is where all your site directories are located)

🔎 Example in Transmit:

```
Protocol: SFTP
Address: 192.168.0.1
User Name: root
Key: id_rsa (or enter password manually)
Remote Path: /var/www/
```

![](/_landing/docs/accessing-all-site-files-via-sftp-with-root-user-in-xcloud-use-credentials-to-access-files-via-sftp-client.png)

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### Syncing the Password (Optional)

You can use the same **sudo password** as the one provided in the setup email for consistency, or set a different password when creating the sudo user in xCloud’s panel.

### Important Notes

-   Avoid using the root user for regular uploads unless necessary.
-   For site-specific access, always use the **site user** auto-created by xCloud.
-   Misuse of the root user can impact all sites – use carefully.

Let us know via support if you need help connecting or setting it up!