How to upload a website using cPanel File Manager

Find the correct website folder

In cPanel, open Domains to check the document root for the domain. Your primary domain commonly uses public_html, but addon domains can use a different folder.

Upload the files

1. Open File Manager and navigate to the domain’s document root.
2. Choose Upload and select your site files or a ZIP archive.
3. If you uploaded a ZIP, return to File Manager and use Extract in the intended folder.
4. Confirm that the homepage file, such as index.php or index.html, is in the document root—not nested in an extra folder.
5. Visit the domain over HTTPS and test several pages.

If the website is not appearing

Verify the domain’s DNS is pointing to the hosting server and allow for DNS propagation. Check whether the homepage exists, whether PHP is enabled for your site, and whether your browser or CDN is showing cached content.

Protect your deployment

Keep a copy of your old site and database before replacing files. Never upload passwords, database exports, or private keys into publicly accessible folders.

Before you say the upload is finished

• Homepage loads: Open the domain and a subpage in a private window; verify links and static assets resolve.
• Directory listing appears: Confirm an appropriate index file is present and the domain points to the right document root.
• Blank page or server error: Check PHP compatibility and the error log rather than repeatedly re-uploading the same archive.
• Old website still appears: Check DNS, browser caching and whether the intended domain uses a different document root.

If the site uses WordPress, remember that copying files alone may not transfer its database. Use the WordPress migration checklist for a complete transfer.