How to Password-Protect a Directory in cPanel

Password-Protecting a Directory

Use directory password protection to restrict access to admin areas, client portals, staging sites, or any folder you want to keep private.

Step 1 — Open Directory Privacy

1. Log into cPanel
2. Go to Files → Directory Privacy

Step 2 — Select the Directory

Navigate to the folder you want to protect (e.g., public_html/admin or public_html/staging). Click the Edit (pencil) icon next to it.

Step 3 — Enable Password Protection

1. Check Password protect this directory
2. Enter a Label (e.g., "Admin Area — Authorised Users Only")
3. Click Save

Step 4 — Create Authorised Users

1. Scroll down to Create User
2. Enter a Username and Password
3. Click Save

You can create multiple users with different passwords.

Step 5 — Test the Protection

Visit the protected URL in your browser. You should see a browser authentication dialog asking for username and password.

Removing Password Protection

Return to Directory Privacy, click Edit on the protected folder, uncheck Password protect this directory, and save.

Use Cases