cPanel
cPanel File Manager: how to use it without breaking a site
cPanel File Manager is convenient because it can change live website files from a browser. That convenience also means a delete, rename, permission change, or syntax error can become a production outage immediately.
Identify the correct document root
Accounts with multiple domains can have different document roots. Confirm which directory serves the hostname before uploading or deleting files so a maintenance task for one site does not affect another.
Show hidden files when configuration depends on them
Files such as `.htaccess` can control redirects, access, PHP behaviour, and application routing. A directory can appear normal while an important hidden configuration file is the real source of the behaviour.
Back up before destructive edits
Download or copy the file you are about to replace, and keep a current application/database backup for larger changes. File Manager has no universal undo button for every production edit.
Avoid broad permission changes
Changing an entire tree to overly permissive modes can create security and application problems. Preserve normal ownership and only change the specific permissions needed for the workload.