The File Manager in cPanel lets you work with your website files directly through your web browser. You can upload, download, edit, and delete files without needing a separate FTP client.
Opening the File Manager
- Log in to your cPanel control panel
- In the Files section, click the File Manager icon
- A new tab or window will open with your file browser
- By default, you'll see your public_html folder (your website's main directory)
Uploading Files
- Navigate to the folder where you want to upload files
- Click the Upload button in the toolbar
- Select one or more files from your computer
- Click Open (or Upload) to begin the transfer
- Wait for the upload to complete — you'll see a progress bar
Tip: You can also drag and drop files directly into the File Manager window if your browser supports it.
Downloading Files
- Right-click the file you want to download
- Select Download from the context menu (or select the file and click the Download button in the toolbar)
- Your browser will save the file to your default download folder
Creating and Editing Files
- Right-click in an empty area of the folder
- Select Create New File and enter a filename
- The file will be created; click on it to edit its contents
- Make your changes in the text editor that appears
- Click Save to store your changes
Managing Folders and Files
- Create a folder: Right-click → Create New Folder → enter a name
- Delete: Right-click the file or folder → Delete (it goes to trash first)
- Rename: Right-click → Rename → type the new name
- Move/Copy: Right-click → Cut or Copy → navigate to the destination folder → Right-click → Paste
Setting File Permissions
- Right-click the file or folder
- Select Change Permissions
- Adjust the read/write/execute settings for Owner, Group, and Others as needed
- Click Change Permissions to apply
Note: Most web files (HTML, PHP, images) should be readable by the web server; consult your provider's documentation if you're unsure about permissions.
Returning to Your Home Directory
If you navigate deep into folders, click the Home button in the toolbar to quickly return to your public_html folder.