I am trying to see if anybody is aware of any ssh or ftp ways of editing files in expression web. This is similar to notepad++. I am already aware of sftpdrive option. I am looking for something that is free, and robust.
I have not played with open site feature in Expression Web. I am not sure if this will work well with a php site on a Linux box.
Another option is to use samba or nfs to mount a directory on your local machine. If the server is live, you should restriction connections by ip and/or with a vpn.
Be aware that some editors will lag quite a lot with these solutions though, especially with large files.
Connect your Expression Web directly to any FTP server in the open site dialog by typing the ftp address in the site name placeholder like ftp://myftpsite.com. Expression web ask you for your login and password and list your folders to begin to edit your files. It’s very easy, no problems at all.