What Is The Difference Between cPanel and WHM?
Difference between server management and website management is essential to know for any hosting provider. The industry standard uses two distinct panels to handle these different tasks effectively.
Concept of WHM and cPanel
WHM or Web Host Manager is the control center for an entire server or a reseller account. It acts as the parent system where you create and oversee multiple small hosting accounts. On the other hand, cPanel is the individual dashboard for a single website owner to manage their files and emails.
Roles and Responsibilities
Each panel handles specific technical operations to keep the hosting environment organized.
Functions of WHM
- Build new hosting accounts for individual clients.
- Define storage and bandwidth limits through packages.
- Modify DNS zone records for any domain on the server.
- Reset cPanel passwords for users who lose their login info.
- Access any client account without needing their private password.
Functions of cPanel
- Upload website files and manage folders.
- Create and delete email addresses for a specific domain.
- Install scripts like WordPress using automated tools.
- Set up databases for website data storage.
- View visitor statistics and traffic reports.
User Access Levels
The hosting system operates on a hierarchy of permissions to maintain security.
The Root Administrator
This is the highest level of access available on a VPS or Dedicated server. The root user has total power over the hardware and can change any global setting. There is only one root user per server.
The Reseller
Resellers manage their own block of users through a limited version of WHM. They cannot change server-wide settings but have full control over their own customers. A server can have many different resellers at once.
The End User
This user only has access to a single cPanel account. They can manage their own website but cannot see or interfere with other accounts on the same server.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I log into cPanel using my WHM details?
Yes a reseller or root admin can enter any cPanel account directly from the WHM dashboard. You do not need to ask your client for their specific password to help them with their site. This is a very helpful feature for providing quick technical support to your customers.
Does a reseller have the same power as a root user?
No a reseller only manages the accounts they have created for their own clients. They cannot see other resellers or change the core software settings of the server. Only the root user has the permission to perform server-wide maintenance or security updates.
What happens if I change my main WHM password?
Your main cPanel account password will usually change automatically to match your new WHM password. These two accounts are linked because they represent your primary ownership of the hosting space. It is a good practice to use a very strong password for these administrative logins.
Can an end user see my WHM panel?
No an end user only sees their own cPanel dashboard and nothing else. They cannot access the WHM area or see the other websites you are hosting on your server. This separation keeps your business data and other client files completely private and secure.
