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Essential control panel tasks

This guide is for hosting services using cPanel. The interface and available features can vary by service. Open the relevant service in the customer portal and use its control panel link. Confirm the domain and account before changing anything.

File Manager​

Open File Manager and check the domain document root in the domain settings; additional domains can use different directories. Copy an existing file before replacing it. If uploading an archive, check its extraction directory and remove the archive after installation. Never keep backups, database dumps or access information in a publicly accessible website directory. Do not give every file 777 permissions to resolve an error; check the permissions required by your application.

Databases​

In MySQL database management, create a database and a user for it. Assign that user to the database with the permissions required by your application. Use the complete names, including any account prefix added by the panel, in the application connection settings. For a migration, export the old database and import it into the new one. Back up before modifying a live database. Then test both reading data and creating a new record.

Domains and DNS​

Domain registration, nameservers and DNS records are separate settings. A Zone Editor change takes effect only if this is the authoritative DNS service for the domain. Record the current values, and preserve email MX and TXT records when changing A/AAAA targets. The DNS record types guide explains each record type. To change registrars, follow the domain transfer guide.

SSL and HTTPS​

Use the SSL/TLS status screen to check the certificate and expiry date. Certificate issuance requires correct DNS targets and domain validation. If AutoSSL is available in your panel, check its result. Do not force HTTPS before a valid certificate is ready. Afterwards, check for mixed content and redirect loops. See the SSL error guide for troubleshooting.

Installing WordPress​

If the panel offers an application installer, select WordPress. Review the domain, protocol and installation directory; do not install over an existing site. Use a strong administrator password and an email address you can access. For manual installation, follow the official WordPress instructions. After installation, test sign-in, permalinks, forms and updates.

Other common tasks​

Separate guides cover email setup, backup restoration and site migration. For a file transfer client, review FTP and SFTP. Confirm that your account has SSH access before choosing SFTP.