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How to Download Files from cPanel File Manager?

To download a file from cPanel File Manager: Log in to cPanel → open File Manager → navigate to the folder containing your file → select the file → click Download.

To download a folder from cPanel File Manage: select the folder → click Compress → choose Zip Archive → then select and download the resulting .zip file.

cPanel File Manager is a useful tool which facilitates direct file management operations within the hosting environment. Users gain the ability to access and modify files while managing them without needing FTP clients or command-line skills. The process of file downloading stands out as a basic yet critical feature for cPanel data backup and file transfer to local systems among its numerous functionalities.

This blog explains the process to download files and folders using cPanel File Manager, ensuring users can efficiently retrieve their website data while leveraging the intuitive interface of the File Manager.

Steps to Download Files from cPanel File Manager

1. Firstly, Log in to your cPanel.

2. Then, Go to the “File Manager” option.

  • If you are using the Jupiter theme, go to the “Tools” page >>> under the
    “Files” section >>> where you’ll find the “File Manager” option. Click and open it.
  • And, if you are using the Paper Lantern theme, look under the “FILES” section of the cPanel home page and find the “File Manager” option.

3. Choose the folder which has the file that you want to download.

4. Choose the file you want to download.

Note: To download multiple files at a time, click the SHIFT key along with the UP or DOWN arrow keys to select the files you want.

5. Click on the “Download” button.

6. Go to the location on your machine where you would like to save the downloaded file/(s) and save it.

The above process outlined here enables you to download website files from cPanel’s File Manager easily. Before initiating large file downloads, verify that your device has sufficient storage. If any difficulties arise, check the network connectivity or refresh the page.

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Conclusion

Using cPanel File Manager to manage and download files is one of the simplest ways to back up your website’s data. Whether you’re backing up essential files or moving your website content, this method ensures fast access and doesn’t require FTP Hosting or complicated commands. Remember to always check your storage space before downloading large files and keep your files organized for smoother management in the future.

FAQs

Can I download a folder from cPanel File Manager?

Yes, but not directly. cPanel doesn’t let you download a folder as-is. Select the folder, click Compress in the toolbar, choose Zip Archive, and once it’s compressed, select the new .zip file and click Download. This lets you download the entire folder as a single file.

How do I download a website’s files from cPanel?

Select all the files/folders in your public_html (or the relevant directory), compress them into a ZIP using the Compress option, then download that ZIP file. This is the fastest way to get a full backup of your website files without using FTP.

How do I download a database from cPanel?

Files and databases are handled separately. To download a database, go to phpMyAdmin (not File Manager), select your database, click Export, choose the SQL format, and download it. File Manager only handles website files, not database exports.

How do I download a specific file type, like a PHP file, from cPanel?

The process is the same as downloading any file – locate the .php file in File Manager, select it, and click Download. There’s no separate method for specific file types.

Why is my cPanel download stuck or not starting?

This is usually caused by a slow or interrupted network connection, browser download restrictions, or an oversized file. Refresh the page, check your internet connection, and confirm the file isn’t too large for your browser or available disk space, then try again.

Is downloading via File Manager better than using FTP?

File Manager is quicker for downloading a handful of files or folders since it needs no extra software – just your browser. FTP is better suited for large-scale transfers or recurring backups, since FTP clients handle bigger file sets and resume interrupted downloads more reliably.

What file formats does cPanel support for downloads?

cPanel doesn’t restrict file types – you can download any file present in your hosting account, including HTML, PHP, images, and compressed archives like ZIP or TAR.GZ.

October 14, 2026