Whan accessing your cPanel File Manager, the ability to see hidden files is not enabled by default. This article will demonstrate how to turn on that feature.

What is a hidden file?

Hidden files are any files or folders that have a dot at the beginning of their name. For instance, .htaccess or .htpasswd. These are commonly files that are contain information used for configuration of some sort. Keeping them hidden simply prevents accidental deletion or editing.

How to show hidden files in file manager

  1. Log into your cPanel dashboard.
  2. Click on the File Manager icon, located in the Files category.
    click file manager icon
  3. When the popup appears, be sure to select the checkbox entitled Show Hidden Files (dotfiles)
    click checkbox
  4. Click on the Go button to enter the File Manger, displaying any hidden files and folders. Below is a sample of a few hidden files that display when the feature is enabled.
    display hidden files after enabled
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Comments

n/a Points
2016-03-09 5:43 pm

Thanks. But I don't see a popup when I click the filemanager icon. I read elsewhere something about resetting the cPanel interface settings, but I see no control for doing that either. Help? Thank you. 

Staff
17,314 Points
2016-03-10 6:03 am
Hello Marc,

The file manager interface may differ depending on the style of the interface. If you're using paper lantern, then the settings are in top right corner. If you're using the original x3 interface, when you open up the File Manager, the option for seeing hidden files, pops up. I hope that helps to clarify it!

If you have any further questions, please let us know.

Kindest regards,
Arnel C.
n/a Points
2017-04-05 12:53 pm

Hi Please can you assist me.  I am going crazy!  My provider (who insists on not assisting me) appears not to understand how to solve this.  

I am using CPanel.  It may be an older version.

When I follow your instructions there is no way (entering file manager) that I can elect to show hidden files.

There is also no cog or settings button anywhere on the CPanel interface.

There is also no way to reset the theme or interface.

I do see the files (hidden) using file manager but cannot access them.

There is also no permisions values on the right hand side of the file / folder listing in CPanel.

Any ideas?

 

Kind regards

 

Mark

Staff
17,314 Points
2017-04-05 5:39 pm
Hi Mark,

Sorry for the issues! If you're using the x3 theme for cPanel, then this article will apply. The reset options are the bottom of the cPanel screen that appears when you first login. If you are using the new Paper Lantern theme, then you can go to the top right-hand corner and see the settings. Our sister company (InMotion Hosting) has updated documentation for this version that you can find here.

If you have any further questions or comments, please let us know.

Regards,
Arnel C.

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