FTP (file transfer protocol) is a way to access files that anyone can download from a server on the Internet. When AGS clients need information fast, we recommend using our FTP server to transfer files from the client to AGS, or vice versa.
To view an online demonstration of how to use our FTP Site, Click Here.
The FTP upload process is quite simple; however, a customer needs a program that supports FTP (file transfer protocol). Here are a few options depending on your operating system.
The instructions below are designed to assist you with using FTP to send us your files. It is impossible for us to take into account the differences in network and browser configurations amongst all of our customers. We've included contact info for you in case this generic set of instructions does not help you.
For the PC |
For the Mac |
One of the easiest programs already available on a PC, that supports FTP is Internet Explorer.
- Step 1: Launching Internet Explorer
Internet Explorer installs in a program group in "Programs" under the Windows START button called Internet Explorer. Simply click on the icon to launch the program. Internet Explorer is also commonly located on your PC Desktop.
- STEP 2: Connecting to AGS
Once Internet Explorer is running, the user needs to type in the address of AGS's FTP site. The address is ftp://ftp.ags.com/. It is not case sensitive. The user would type the address into the box labeled "Address" and press ENTER.NOTE: If you receive an error while attempting to connect to the FTP site, please click "Tools" on Internet Explorer's menu and then "Internet Options", Otherwise proceed to step 3.
(Internet Explorer 6 is demonstrated below. Older versions of IE may have this option depicted differently).
Click on Advanced tab, place a check in the box beside "Use Passive FTP (for firewall or DSL modem compatibility" and try connecting to the FTP site again.
If you still do not connect, consult your Network Administrator or call AGS at 800-678-8760 and ask to speak with your Customer Service Representative. If this is an after hours emergency, please call 800-678-8760 and select option # 1 to speak with someone directly
Once connected, you will see a box, similar to the one below
- STEP 3: Uploading Files
The file upload process is very easy, requiring just a few mouse clicks. Once connected to the FTP site, click the "Uploads" folder icon to be transferred into the "Uploads" section of the FTP site. From here, and only from here, will you be able to upload files and or folders. After clicking into the Uploads folder, you will see a listing of files and folders currently residing in the folder.
The user must
know in which folder or directory their file/folder is stored, either
locally or on a network drive, in order to transfer it. For locating
documents/folders on disk, refer to your Windows users manual. You
can simply drag and drop your files and or folders into the Internet
Explorer Window. A status indicator may pop-up and display the progress
of the transfer depending on the speed of your connection. For smaller
files/folders, it may merely flash across the screen.
NOTE: Existing files/folders must not be
overwritten! If there is a file/folder that has the same name as
the one being sent the user MUST rename the file first and then
transfer it.
Upon successful
transfer, you can scroll through the file listing to verify your file and or folder was
sent successfully. Once you see your files/folders in the “uploads”
directory, the file transfer is complete.
- STEP 4: Logging Off
To log off, simply close Internet Explorer or go to another Web site or FTP location. If you should need further assistance, please call AGS at 800-678-8760.
Newer versions
of Internet Explorer and Netscape do not support FTP on a Mac platform.
Fetch is a common FTP client used by Mac users. If you do not own
Fetch, you may obtain the software at http://www.macosarchives.com/files/fetch_3.0.3.hqx
- Step 1: Connect to the AGS FTP Server
Activate Fetch and click on New Connection under the File menu. Enter ftp.ags.com in the Host field. Enter anonymous in the User ID field. You may leave the Password field blank. Uploads should be typed in the Directory field. Click OK.NOTE: Refer to fetch documentation or help screens save your connection information as a bookmark
Note: If you receive an error while attempting to connect to the FTP site, please click "Customize" on the Fetch menu and then "Preferences", Otherwise proceed to step two.
Click the tab entitled "Firewall" and place a check in the box "Use passive mode transfers (PASV)" and try the connection again.
If you still do not connect, consult your Network Administrator or call AGS at 800-678-8760 and ask to speak with your Customer Service Representative. If this is an after hours emergency, please call 800-678-8760 and select option # 1 to speak with someone directly
- STEP 2: Uploading Files
1. In the left-hand side of the Fetch Window, is a list of files and folders currently in the uploads directory of ftp.ags.com. Double clicking on a folder icon will display the contents of that folder. This should only be done if you are uploading a file to a particular folder in the uploads directory.
2. Click the Put File button.
3. Fetch will ask you to locate the file you want to transfer. When you have found the file, click the Open button.
4. You will be asked to enter the name you want the file to have on the remote host. Enter the name you want to use. Be aware that most operating systems (especially unix) do not work well with files that have spaces in their names.
5. Click the OK button to start the transfer of the file from your computer to the FTP server. Once the tranfer is complete, close Fetch.