A .htaccess file is a small configuration file used on many Apache-based hosting setups. It can change how a website behaves without editing the main server configuration.
For website owners, it is most commonly associated with redirects, custom error pages, security rules and URL handling.
It is powerful, but it is also easy to break things with a small mistake, so it should be edited carefully.
What .htaccess can do
The exact options depend on the hosting environment, but a .htaccess file may be used for tasks such as:
- Redirecting old URLs to new ones
- Creating custom 404 error pages
- Forcing HTTPS
- Protecting certain files or folders
- Controlling URL rewriting
- Blocking some types of access
- Setting basic caching rules
Many WordPress websites also use .htaccess to manage permalink structure.
Why the filename starts with a dot
The dot at the start means the file may be hidden by default in some file managers or FTP programs.
If you cannot see it, your file manager may need to be set to show hidden files. In cPanel, for example, there is usually an option to display hidden files when using the File Manager.
Redirects are a common use
If a page moves, a redirect can send visitors and search engines to the new location.
For example, if you rename a page or restructure your website, a redirect can prevent people landing on a broken link.
Redirects should be planned carefully. Sending every missing page to the homepage is rarely helpful. A redirect should take the visitor to the most relevant replacement.
Custom error pages
A .htaccess file can be used to set custom error pages, such as a helpful 404 page when a URL cannot be found.
This can improve the visitor experience because they are not left with a plain technical error. A good error page can link back to key sections, include a search box or explain what might have happened.
Be careful when editing
A small syntax error in .htaccess can cause a website to show a server error.
Before making changes, take a copy of the existing file. If something goes wrong, you can restore the previous version quickly.
It is also sensible to make one change at a time and test the website after each change.
Not every hosting setup uses .htaccess
The .htaccess file is associated with Apache web servers. Other server environments, such as Nginx, handle similar rules differently.
That means advice you find online may not always apply to your hosting setup. If you are unsure, check with your hosting provider before copying rules into place.
A useful file when handled carefully
The .htaccess file is small, but it can have a large effect on how your site behaves.
Used properly, it can help with redirects, error handling, security and performance. Used carelessly, it can take a website offline.
If you need to edit it, keep a backup, test carefully and ask for support if you are not sure what a rule does.