I think the problem is your 'defined' call. The return value from new() may be defined even if its false. Also it appears you are trying to print out the value in the $ftp but you put it in single quotes. Perl only interpolates on double quotes.

Anyway try calling Net::FTP like this:

If it can't make a connection that should give you the reason why

Also a couple of other small observations that may or may not be related to your problem. The -w and use warnings; do the same thing so you really only need one of them. You should also use strict; I know that this is a small program, but it is good practice and it can help you locate hidden bugs.

Hope that helps