In Advanced mode, the Remote Info category of the Dreamweaver Site Setup dialog allows you to supply details for accessing the remote web server. This will be used by Dreamweaver to connect to the server hosting the site so that files can be uploaded and downloaded.

For internet sites, Dreamweaver uses the file transfer protocol (FTP) standard to connect to the server. For intranets and sites being developed on a local server, the Local/Network option is used.

The FTP host is simply the host name or IP address of the FTP server associated with your domain. The name usually takes the form ftp.yoursite.com or www.yoursite.com. If in doubt, consult your internet service provider (ISP).

On a typical web server internet files need to be uploaded into a specific sub-directory if they are to be visible on the web. Check with you ISP to see whether files should be uploaded to the root directory or into a sub-directory.

You web hosting company will have allocated you user name and password. Usually all, you need to to do is to copy and paste from the email they sent you straight into the login and password boxes. Note that Dreamweaver activates the option to save the password. If you think this feature represents a security risk then click the checkbox to deactivate it. Once again, this information will be available from your ISP.

When copying files to and from a server, you may occasionally find that, because of the way FTP works, your firewall is continually attempting to interrupt FTP transfers causing constant delays. Activating the option Use passive FTP (a system whereby the FTP connection is initiated by the client rather than the server) may cure this problem.

Many companies use firewalls to block access to intranets and to control how their own workers access the Internet. If your company uses a firewall then you must enter the relevant information in Preferences. Once you have done so, the Use Firewall option will be automatically selected.

Adobe Dreamweaver’s useful Check-in/Out feature can be used when several team members are working in collaboration on the same site. When a team member is working on a particular file, Dreamweaver will place a check mark next to the file in the remote listing in site files view as well as the name and email of the person editing the file, so other users can email him or her. If you activate this option, you must enter your name and email in the appropriate boxes.

Becoming fluent in Adobe’s Dreamweaver CS4 is a good move for any IT specialist. Looking to master Dreamweaver? We offer Adobe Dreamweaver CS4 training courses in London and all over the UK.