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How to Generate The Default WordPress .htaccess File?

Introduction

When working with WordPress, you will probably have to work with the .htaccess file. Your website cannot run without it. This guide explains what the .htaccess file is, its functionality, and how to make one in case it is not present.

What is the .htaccess File?

The .htaccess file is a special configuration file. It is not specifically part of WordPress; it can be used on any site running on the Apache web server. It is the primary configuration file on a directory level.

The server looks in the root directory of the project whenever a server starts a site. In case it is present, the server executes the file. The name of this file starts with a dot, hence it is not visible in your file system by default.

The Function of the .htaccess File

The main purpose of the .htaccess file is to reconfigure certain settings of the Apache web server. It is useful for turning certain server features on or off.

  • URL Management: It usually generates redirects, including the redirecting of non-www URLs into www URLs and vice versa.
  • Access Control: It is able to assign certain privileges to a particular file or block unwanted bots from accessing your site.
  • Security: It handles security options, which protect the WordPress installation from common threats.
  • MIME Types: It allows you to add or edit MIME types for different file formats.

These are significant in WordPress development. You must configure and adjust these settings to suit your specifications.

Steps to Generate the Default WordPress .htaccess File

When you install WordPress on an Apache server, the .htaccess file is there by default. It is hidden and, therefore, you have to turn on ‘Show Hidden Files’ in your file manager in order to view it. In case the file is lost or it is accidentally deleted, you must make a new file.

You can create the file either in cPanel or on your computer. We will use the cPanel method here.

  • Log in to cPanel.
  • Go to the root directory of your WordPress installation, which is normally referred to as public_html.
  • Prepare a new text file called .htaccess. Always remember to include the leading dot.
  • Open the new file in a text editor and paste the default WordPress code. You need to copy and paste the default WordPress code into it. This code sets the basic server settings for WordPress. The standard default code looks like this:

Paste the code with the start and end marker exactly as shown below:

# BEGIN WordPress
<IfModule mod_rewrite.c>
RewriteEngine On
RewriteBase /
RewriteRule ^index\.php$ - [L]
RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-f
RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-d
RewriteRule . /index.php [L]
</IfModule>
# END WordPress
  • Close the editor and save the file.

You have just made your own default .htaccess file. You should visit your WordPress website to ensure that it is working correctly. A 500 Internal Server Error can be caused if the .htaccess file has incorrect code.

Hosting features of Cantech for You

Cantech provides a reliable hosting platform for your WordPress site.

  • Simple File Access: With our cPanel File Manager, it is easy to find and edit the hidden .htaccess file.
  • Apache Optimization: We have optimized Apache servers, which makes your .htaccess rules run fast and efficiently.
  • Troubleshooting Support: Our 24/7 support team will assist in the troubleshooting of the server error and will ensure that you are properly configured.

Conclusion

The .htaccess file is an essential part of any WordPress site. It maintains the correct operation and provides advanced server configuration. Understanding this file helps you manage various features. You can especially manage security settings easily.

FAQs About the .htaccess File

Where is the .htaccess file located in WordPress?

The .htaccess file is located in the root of your WordPress installation, which is usually called public_html on your server.

Why is the .htaccess file sometimes missing?

This file will not be present when your host is not running the Apache web server, or when your file manager hides dot files by default.

Can I use the .htaccess file to boost website security?

Yes. It is a great security tool; you can block certain IP addresses or turn off directory browsing easily.

What happens if I delete the .htaccess file?

Deleting the file will not crash your site immediately, but features such as permalinks will stop functioning properly since the file manages the URL rewriting policies.

Is the .htaccess file used on Nginx web servers?

No, .htaccess is Apache-specific. Nginx has a different configuration system that manages settings in its primary configuration file.

January 19, 2026