What cPanel Does
cPanel is a web-based control panel used to manage a hosting account. It organizes common hosting tasks into sections so website owners do not need to perform every action from a command line.
File Management
The File Manager lets you upload, rename, edit, compress, and remove website files. The document root for a primary website is commonly the public_html directory, although account configurations can vary.
Email Management
You can create domain-based mailboxes, adjust storage limits, configure forwarding, and view connection settings for email applications.
Database Tools
cPanel includes tools for creating MySQL or MariaDB databases and users. phpMyAdmin provides a browser interface for reviewing and changing database content.
Security And SSL
Depending on the hosting configuration, cPanel may provide SSL status, directory privacy, IP blocking, hotlink protection, and security-related account tools.
Backups And Applications
Backup options vary by provider and plan. Softaculous may also be available for installing WordPress and other applications.
Before changing files, databases, DNS, or email settings, create a backup and document the original configuration.