Character Encoding and the cPanel File Manager

In our previous article, we gave an introduction to character encoding and why UTF-8 is considered the best format. We also discussed how different character encodings are not usually compatible with each other. In this article, we will cover what to look for in the character encoding check that appears when editing a file within the cPanel File Manager.

1. In the cPanel File Manager, if you wish to edit a file, you have two editors to choose from: the Code Editor and the Text Editor (Edit). Once you have selected the file you wish to edit, choose either option from the File Manager menu (or right click the file and choose one of the editors).

   

2. When you open a file with either the Code Editor or Text Editor in the cPanel File Manager, an encoding check is performed by default. Normally, this encoding check will correctly detect the character encoding of a file.

   

3. Of course, it doesn't hurt to double check the encoding. If you know that your file is in a different encoding than what is shown by the check, you can choose the correct encoding from the drop down menu.

   

4. Click Edit to finish opening your file.
5. If you accidentally disable the encoding check and would like to re-enable it, you can do so in the File Manager Settings. At the top left of the page, click the Settings link next to the File Manager heading.

   

6. In the Preferences pop up window, deselect the box next to Disable Character Encoding Verification Dialogs and click the Save button.
   

   

In this article we have focused on character encoding for files. Character encoding can also apply to databases. If you have database tables that you need to convert to a different character set and collation, please see our article on converting a database.