Error: 421 too many connections (8) from this IP
The "421 too many connections (8) from this IP" error occurs when FileZilla exceeds the server's limit for simultaneous connections from a single IP address. Enabling Connection Persistence can help by reusing the same connection for multiple transfers instead of opening new connections for each action.
What is Connection Persistence?
- Persistent Connections keep a single connection open for multiple commands or file transfers.
- This avoids the need to repeatedly open and close connections, which can trigger the server's connection limit.
How to Enable Connection Persistence in FileZilla
Adjust the Simultaneous Connection Limit
- Open FileZilla Settings:
- Go to Edit > Settings (Windows/Linux) or FileZilla > Preferences (Mac).
- Navigate to Transfers:
- In the settings menu, click on Transfers.
- Reduce Maximum Simultaneous Transfers:
- Set the Maximum simultaneous transfers to 2 or 3 (default is often higher).
- Example:
Maximum Simultaneous Transfers: 2
- Save Changes:
- Click OK to save your settings.
Limit Connections Per Server
- Open Site Manager:
- Go to File > Site Manager.
- Select Your Server:
- Choose the FTP site/server causing the issue.
- Set Connection Limits:
- Go to the Transfer Settings tab.
- Check Limit number of simultaneous connections.
- Set the limit to 2 or 3.
- Save and Connect:
- Click OK to save the configuration and reconnect to the server.
Enable Keep-Alive
- Go to Settings:
- Navigate to Edit > Settings.
- Enable Keep-Alive Commands:
- Under Connection, check the box for Send keep-alive commands.
- This ensures the connection remains open during idle periods.
- Save Changes:
- Click OK to apply the settings.
Server-Side Adjustments (If You Manage the Server)
Increase Max Connections per IP
For vsftpd or other FTP servers:
- Edit the FTP configuration file:
sudo nano /etc/vsftpd.conf - Adjust the
max_per_ipsetting:max_per_ip=10 - Restart the FTP server:
sudo systemctl restart vsftpd
Use Passive Mode
Ensure your server supports Passive Mode, as it reduces simultaneous connection issues by using dynamic ports.
Preventive Measures
- Use a Static IP: If you're on a shared IP, switching to a static IP may reduce connection conflicts.
- Limit Concurrent Sessions: Avoid running multiple FileZilla instances or sessions from the same machine.
- Monitor Server Logs: For server admins, check logs for excessive connections and adjust limits accordingly.
Summary
Enabling connection persistence in FileZilla, reducing simultaneous connections, and optimizing your client settings can resolve the "421 too many connections" issue. If the problem persists, coordinate with your hosting provider or server administrator to increase connection limits.


