Learn to use the Editor in cPanel’s File Manager
cPanel’s File Manager is a very useful tool, as it allows you to manage your website files and edit files directly on your web server. This saves you the time of downloading and re-uploading files. This article will show you how to use the built-in editors.
What is the File Manager Editor?
The File Manager includes two types of editors to enable you to make quick changes to your files.
- Plain Text Editor: This editor is for text-based files, so you can use it to edit configuration files like .htaccess. It is a simple editor and perfect for making minor code or text changes.
- HTML Editor: This editor is for HTML files. It is a WYSIWYG editor. This means “What You See Is What You Get.” It lets you edit a web page visually and is just like a word processor. You can format text or add images without writing code. You can also view and edit the source code.
How to View a File
To check a file’s content, you do not always need to edit it. The File Manager has a view function for this.
- Log in to cPanel: Access your account by logging in.
- Go to File Manager: Click the File Manager icon in the Files section.
- Select a file: Choose the file you want to see.
- View the file: Click the View icon at the top. The file’s content will open in a new tab.
How to Edit a Plain Text File
You can use the plain text editor for files like scripts or configuration files.
- Access your account and go to File Manager (Files section), which opens by clicking on the icon.
- Choose the text file you want to edit.
- Then, click the Edit icon at the top to open the editor. A dialogue box will appear.
- Select character encoding set. UTF-8 is the common one. Click Edit. The editor will open your file.
- Make your edits. Then, click Save Changes to save your work.
- Click Close to exit the editor.
How to Edit an HTML File
You can use the HTML editor to work on web pages.
- Access your cPanel account and open the File Manager.
- Choose an HTML file you want to edit.
- Open the editor by clicking the HTML Editor icon.
- Choose character encoding. Click Edit. The editor will open.
- You can use the formatting toolbar to make visual changes. You can also click the Source button to edit the HTML code directly. You can use the Preview button to see how the page will look.
- Click the Save icon to save your changes.
Cantech’s Web Hosting Features
Cantech offers reliable web hosting services that include a powerful File Manager with cPanel in every plan. The File Manager’s built-in editors make it easy to manage your website. You can make quick changes to your files. Our hosting also provides strong security features. This helps protect your website from threats.
Conclusion
cPanel’s File Manager editors are a convenient tool. They let you edit files directly on the server so that you do not need to use an FTP client for small changes. However, using the right editor for the right file type is key. This simple feature makes website management much easier.
FAQs
Is it safe to edit files directly on the server?
Yes, it is generally safe for small changes. You should always back up your files before editing them. This will help you restore them if something goes wrong.
Can I use the plain text editor for HTML files?
Yes, the plain text editor works for all text-based files. However, the HTML editor provides more features. It is better for a visual editing experience.
What is the difference between ‘View’ and ‘Edit’?
The View option lets you look at the file’s content only. You cannot make any changes. The Edit option opens the file in an editor. This lets you make changes and save them.
What is character set encoding?
Character set encoding is a way to represent text characters. UTF-8 is the most common. You should select the one that your file uses to prevent text from appearing incorrectly.
Does the editor work on all file types?
No. The editors only work on text-based files. You cannot edit binary files like images or videos with them. You should use an FTP client for those files.