Unable to change permissions on host server

I just downloaded zen cart 1.3.8 full file set. I am brand new to this and have really no idea what I'm doing. I have tried to follow the zencart installation process and ran into the following problem.

My website is hosted by tripod lycos. I uploaded the files for zencart into the file manager. I can change the name of the files as instructed in the zencart's instructions, however, I cannot change the permissions.

When I asked tech support at tripod lycos they said that "Unfortunately, we do not allow for the permissions to be changed."

I have also downloaded FileZilla for the FTP as recommended by zencart, but did not try to use this to transfer the files as my host seemed to accept them in my file manager without issue.

Is there a way to use FileZilla to change the permissions before they are placed on my host server? If not is there some other way I can do this?

I have never set up an e-commerce site before and do not have the money to pay for someone to do it for me until my business starts to make a profit. Any help at all would be truly appreciated. Thank you!

No, you can't change permissions before uploading.

You won't have to pay someone to build your site, but you will have to find a new host. 'Free' hosting just doesn't work with real programs like Zencart. Check the Certified Hosts at the top of this page, and Google 'webhosting'. Be sure to search the forums here for the name of any other host you're considering.

You'll want a host which uses Linux servers to avoid more permissions problems.

After you've switched to a good host, you can change permissions via Filezilla or other FTP programs.