What Is the .htaccess File
The .htaccess is a hidden plain text file that you can use to configure the details of your website without needing to alter the server configuration files. You can also use the file to block specific traffic from being able to view your website.
The .htaccess file is important because the configuration in that file will affect everything in its directory and the directories under it.
How to View .htaccess With the File Manager
By default, most advanced files are hidden in the Hosting Manager CPanel. Hidden files always begin with a dot, such as .htaccess. These hidden files can be edited using your File Manager, but you need to ensure you have selected the option to view hidden files. Here’s how to view the .htaccess file:
Step 1. Log in to your cPanel.
Step 2. On the Home page, click the Files icon or the [ v ] arrow symbol. Click on the File Manager icon.
Step 3. You will then be redirected to your File Manager control panel. All hidden files here will be shown.
Congratulations! You can now view .htaccess in the File Manager. If you’re not seeing a .htaccess file on your File Manager, then create one by continue reading the steps below.
How to Create .htaccess
There are two ways to create a .htaccess, via your local computer or web hosting file manager.
Via your local computer:
- Open Notepad (for Windows) or TextEdit (Mac OS).
- Save the file using only the .htaccess extension.
- Upload it to your File Manager, typically in the public_html folder or any folder where your site files are located.
Via your web control panel:
Step 1. Log in to your cPanel.
Step 2. On the Home page, click the Files icon or the [ v ] arrow symbol. Click on the File Manager icon.
Step 3. On the File Manager page, click + File and enter .htaccess as the new file name. Then, enter the folder location you want to save the file.
For this guide, we’ll create the file under public_html folder.
Step 4. Click the Create New File button.
You should see you created immediately. See the image below for reference:
Congratulations! You just created a .htaccess file. If you need any further assistance or if you have any questions in creating or accessing your .htaccess file, please let us know. We’d love to help!