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Question

Filezilla cannot connect to a server unless I use my phone's hotspot

  • December 15, 2025
  • 4 replies
  • 34 views
G
The Many
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Howdy,

      I use FileZilla for work and I work remotely. My company and internet provider cannot help me. Any ideas what could be blocking access? I’m using the Surfboard SBG8300.

     All FileZilla says is Connecting to < SERVER NAME >, then < Connection timed out after 20 seconds of inactivity > followed by < Could not connect to server >

     However, if I change my wifi to my iPhone Personal Hotspot, it connects very fast so I know my credentials are correct.

      I hope you can help, I’ve been struggling with this (off and on) for over a year.

Later

4 replies

S
Wi-Fi Warriors
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We recommend lowering the firewall settings on your gateway.
Please refer to the link below for detailed instructions on how to adjust the firewall settings.

https://arris.my.salesforce-sites.com/consumers/articles/knowledge/SBG8300-IPv4-Firewall-Setup

SURFboard Community Moderator Team
G
The Many
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  • green3eagleThe Many
  • Author
  • The Many
  • December 19, 2025

Thank you for the prompt response. 

 

My settings match those in the document you provided. Any other ideas?

 

Thanks, 

S
Wi-Fi Warriors
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Temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus and test FileZilla. This will help determine whether the gateway is blocking the service or if the issue lies with the internet connection itself.
If the problem persists even after disabling the firewall, we recommend checking whether ports 21 (FTP) or 990 (FTPS) are allowed. 

 

SURFboard Community Moderator Team
G
The Many
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  • green3eagleThe Many
  • Author
  • The Many
  • December 31, 2025

Howdy,

     Thanks for your help. None of these suggestions worked. My Internet Provider will not help because I do not lease my modem/router from them. Although it is on the approved use list.

      I guess I’m stuck swapping wireless networks.

Later, Tony

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