Use File Manager in cPanel to adjust permissions for individual files and directories. These determine which system users may read, write or execute them.
Who is this guide for?
This guide applies exclusively to customers whose hosting is managed on the new Webland platform (WHMCS) and whose hosting plan includes cPanel.
Essential Hosting without cPanel: This guide does not apply to your hosting.
Previous platform using System Configurator or Domain Manager: Sign in at classic.webland.ch. The steps below do not apply to that platform.
Important information
Incorrect permissions can prevent access to your website or allow unwanted changes to files.
Change only the permissions that need adjusting.
Note the existing value before each change.
Do not use 0777 as a general fix for access problems. It grants all user categories read, write and execute permissions.
File permissions do not replace password protection for website visitors.
Requirements
Before you begin, make sure you:
Have access to your cPanel hosting service.
Know which file or directory needs changing.
Know which permissions your application requires.
Step 1: Sign in to cPanel
Find your hosting service in the active services overview in the client area.
Click “Log in to cPanel”.
You will be signed in to cPanel automatically.
Step 2: Open File Manager
Open the “Files” section in cPanel and click “File Manager”.
Step 3: Select the file or directory
Navigate to the relevant file or directory.
Select the item.
Note its currently displayed permissions.
Click “Permissions” in the toolbar.
Step 4: Adjust permissions
The dialog allows you to set permissions separately for the owner, group and others.
The available permissions are:
Read: Read a file’s contents or list a directory’s contents.
Write: Modify a file or create, rename and delete entries in a directory.
Execute: Run an executable file or traverse a directory to access items inside it.
Common values for reference:
Use | Common permission value |
Regular website files, such as HTML files and images | 0644 |
Many website subdirectories | 0755 |
These values do not apply universally. Confidential configuration files, executable scripts and special directories may require different permissions. Different requirements may also apply to public_html.
Adjust the checkboxes or numeric fields according to your requirements. Then click “Change Permissions” to save.
Step 5: Check functionality
Open your website and test the affected feature, such as a file upload or script.
If problems occur after the change, first restore the permission value you noted earlier and test again.
Troubleshooting
My website shows a 403 or 500 error after the change
Restore the previous permissions. These errors can also have other causes. If the problem persists, contact Webland Support.
An application still cannot save files
File ownership can also affect access. Avoid granting broader permissions without identifying the cause. Provide Webland Support with the affected path and exact error message.
I do not know which permissions are required
Check your application’s documentation or ask your website developer. Webland Support can help with your hosting’s requirements.