How to change File permission in cPanel

Overview

File and folder permissions control who can read, write, or execute files on your hosting account. Incorrect permissions are a common cause of website errors. This guide explains how to change permissions using the cPanel File Manager.

Understanding Permission Numbers

Permissions are represented by a three-digit number (e.g., 644, 755):

• 644 — Standard for files: owner can read/write, others can read only.
• 755 — Standard for folders/directories: owner can read/write/execute, others can read/execute.
• 600 — Restrictive: only the owner can read/write (useful for config files).
• 777 — Full access for everyone (avoid this — it is a security risk).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Log in to cPanel using your account credentials.
2. Under the Files section, click on File Manager.
3. Navigate to the file or folder whose permissions you want to change.
4. Right-click on the file or folder and select Change Permissions from the context menu.
   Alternatively, select the file/folder and click the Permissions button in the toolbar at the top.
5. In the Change Permissions dialog, check or uncheck the boxes for Read, Write, and Execute for each category (Owner, Group, World). The numeric permission value updates automatically.
6. Click Change Permissions to save.

Recommended Permissions for Common Applications

• WordPress: Folders 755, files 644, wp-config.php set to 440 or 600.
• General websites: Folders 755, files 644.

Important Notes

• Never set permissions to 777 — this allows anyone to modify your files and is a serious security vulnerability.
• If your website shows a 500 Internal Server Error or a 403 Forbidden error, incorrect file permissions are often the cause.
• Changes take effect immediately — no restart is required.

Troubleshooting

• 403 Forbidden error: The file or folder may have permissions set too low (e.g., 600 on a publicly accessed file). Set files to 644 and folders to 755.
• 500 Internal Server Error: Check that folders are set to 755 and PHP files to 644. A 000 or 777 permission can also cause this.
• Cannot save changes: Ensure you are modifying the correct file and that your cPanel account owns the file.