Managing Website Files (File Manager & FTP)
Beginner-friendly guide for managing website files using cPanel File Manager and FTP.
Jump to
File Manager Basics
- Log in to cPanel and click File Manager.
- Navigate to your website root, usually public_html.
- Use the interface to browse, upload, delete, and organize files.
Tip: Keep files organized by domain or project to avoid confusion.
FTP Accounts
- Go to Files → FTP Accounts.
- Create a new FTP account with a username and strong password.
- Set the home directory to restrict access if desired.
- Use an FTP client (FileZilla, WinSCP, etc.) to connect using your credentials.
Uploading Files
- Open File Manager and navigate to the correct folder.
- Click Upload and choose files from your device.
- For large sites, upload a
.zipfile and extract it on the server.
Tip: Extract archives inside the correct folder to keep your site structure clean.
File Permissions
Use proper permissions to avoid security or functionality issues:
| Item | Recommended Permission |
|---|---|
| Directories | 755 |
| Files | 644 |
| Sensitive Configuration | 600 |
Cleanup & Security
- Delete unused uploads, old backups, and temporary files.
- Never leave backups inside public_html — they may be publicly accessible.
- Review FTP accounts and remove any not in use.
Warning: Incorrect permissions can expose sensitive files or cause the site to break.
Final Checklist
- [ ] Open File Manager - [ ] Navigate to correct web root - [ ] Upload or extract files - [ ] Set correct file & folder permissions - [ ] Delete temp files & ZIP backups - [ ] Test the website functions - [ ] Review and clean unused FTP accounts© cPanel File Manager Guide
