I just put up a small website on HostMonster. I've downloaded the .bashrc file that came with the site by default, edited it to add one linewhich uses the same syntax and punctuation as three alias lines that were pre-recorded in the file. However, when I log onto the server using ncftp and try to use the alias, I get the message "lss: no such command"

I'm guessing this is a problem with the ncftp software not recognizing the alias in the .bashrc file, but that's just a guess. Anyone have any real knowledge or experience with something like this?

The ftp server dictates which commands can be used (the ? will show you which commands can be used and help <command> for details).

Setting up, for example, an alias on your remote .bashrc will not change what the ftp server permits you to do. Depending on how the ftp server is set up you might be able to escape to the shell by using !