---
title: "Viewing Hidden Files (htaccess) in cPanel’s File Manager"
description: "By default, when you use the File Manager in cPanel, it doesn't show hidden files. Hidden files are any file that begins with a dot, such as .htaccess. .htaccess is a common file to edit, so to edit..."
url: https://www.inmotionhosting.com/support/website/show-hidden-files-in-file-manager/
date: 2011-11-17
modified: 2023-06-07
author: "InMotion Hosting Contributor"
categories: ["cPanel", "Website"]
type: post
lang: en
---

# Viewing Hidden Files (htaccess) in cPanel’s File Manager

By default, when you use the File Manager in cPanel, it doesn’t show **hidden files**. Hidden files are any file that begins with a dot, such as .htaccess. **.htaccess** is a common file to edit, so to edit the file using your File Manager, you’ll need to have the option selected to show hidden files. Keep reading to learn how.

## Showing hidden files in File Manager

1. [Log in to your cPanel](/support/edu/cpanel/how-to-log-into-cpanel/)  
2. Under *Files* click **File Manager**[![](https://www.inmotionhosting.com/support/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cpanel_lanternUpdatesMay17_cmPape_01.png)](/support/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cpanel_lanternUpdatesMay17_cmPape_01.png)    
3. Slick **Settings** in the upper right corner[![Settings button](https://www.inmotionhosting.com/support/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cpanel_plfix_PL_fix_Selection_03.png)](/support/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cpanel_plfix_PL_fix_Selection_03.png)    
4. Select your Document Root and check the box for **Show hidden files** and click **Save**[![Show hidden files option](https://www.inmotionhosting.com/support/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cpanel_plfix_PL_fix_Selection_02.png)](/support/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cpanel_plfix_PL_fix_Selection_02.png)    

Do you need a little more guidance? When you are an InMotion [ cPanel Hosting customer,](https://www.inmotionhosting.com/cpanel-hosting) you have access to world-class, 24/7 support. Simply select one of the contact options at the bottom of your screen.