The Dreamweaver Site Setup dialog (Advanced Mode) has several categories of information, the second of which (The Remote Info category) 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 public websites, 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.

In the FTP host box, you simply enter 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).

Host Directory is basically the folder or sub-directory on the web server in which internet files need to be uploaded 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.

In the next section, you need to specify the login and password which have been allocated to allow you FTP access to the server hosting your site. 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.

Occasionally, because of the way FTP works, you may sometimes find that 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.

Dreamweaver uses the 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.

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