How to Create a Default htaccess File for WordPress Print

Introduction

The .htaccess file is a critical component of any WordPress website. It allows you to control server configurations, manage URL redirections, and enforce access permissions, which can significantly impact your site’s performance and security. This guide will walk you through the process of creating and configuring a default .htaccess file for WordPress using DirectAdmin and cPanel control panels. Following these step-by-step instructions will help ensure that your WordPress site operates efficiently and securely.

1. Creating a Default .htaccess File for WordPress in DirectAdmin

Step 1: Access Your DirectAdmin Account

1. Log in to your DirectAdmin control panel.
2. Navigate to the "File Manager" located under the "Files" section.

Step 2: Locate Your WordPress Root Directory

1. Browse to the root directory of your WordPress installation, typically found at public_html or domains/yourdomain.com/public_html.

Step 3: Create a New .htaccess File

1. Click the "New File" button at the top of the file manager interface.
2. Name the file .htaccess (ensure there’s no file extension) and click "Create."

Step 4: Edit the .htaccess File

1. Select the newly created .htaccess file.
2. Click the "Edit" button to open the file in the text editor.

Step 5: Add Default WordPress .htaccess Rules

1. Paste the following default WordPress .htaccess rules into the file:

# 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

1. Save your changes by clicking the "Save" button.

2. Creating a Default .htaccess File for WordPress in cPanel

Step 1: Access Your cPanel Account

1. Log in to your cPanel control panel.
2. Navigate to the "File Manager" located under the "Files" section.

Step 2: Locate Your WordPress Root Directory

1. Browse to the root directory of your WordPress installation, typically public_html.

Step 3: Create a New .htaccess File

1. Click the "New File" button in the top-left corner of the file manager.
2. Name the file .htaccess and click "Create New File."

Step 4: Edit the .htaccess File

1. Right-click on the newly created .htaccess file and choose "Edit" or "Code Edit" from the context menu.

Step 5: Add Default WordPress .htaccess Rules

1. Paste the following default WordPress .htaccess rules into the file:

# 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

 2.Save your changes by clicking the "Save Changes" button in the top-right corner.

Conclusion

Creating a default .htaccess file for your WordPress site using DirectAdmin or cPanel is a straightforward process that plays a crucial role in your site’s functionality and security. The .htaccess file not only controls URL redirection and access permissions but also helps optimize your site's performance. Always handle this file with care, as incorrect configurations can lead to site errors. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your WordPress website runs smoothly with the proper server configurations in place.