The Indexes interface in cPanel allows you to control how directories on your website display when visitors access them directly. By default, if a directory does not have an index file (like index.html or index.php), Apache displays a generic directory listing page, showing all files within that folder. This can be customized or disabled for security and usability.
What Are Directory Indexes?
When someone visits a folder URL on your website (e.g., www.example.com/folder/), the web server looks for an index file to display. If none exists, it generates a directory listing showing all files and subfolders inside.
This listing may reveal sensitive files or clutter the user experience. The Indexes interface helps you manage this behavior by customizing or disabling directory listings.
Why Customize Directory Indexes?
- Improve security: Prevent visitors from seeing all files in a directory, which could expose sensitive information.
- Enhance user experience: Display a friendly message or no listing instead of a raw file list.
- Control file visibility: Allow or deny directory contents to be browsed based on your needs.
How to Use the Indexes Interface
- Log in to your cPanel account.
- Find and click on the Indexes icon under the Files section.
- Select the directory you want to configure.
- Choose one of the following options for that directory:
- Default System Setting: Use the server’s default behavior.
- No Indexing: Prevent directory listings altogether. Visitors will see a 403 Forbidden error if no index file is present.
- Standard Indexing: Show a simple listing of files and directories.
- Fancy Indexing: Display a visually enhanced directory listing with icons and file details.
- Click Save to apply your changes.
Example Use Cases
| Scenario | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| Secure directory with sensitive files | No Indexing |
| Public folder with downloadable files | Fancy Indexing |
| Maintain default server behavior | Default System Setting |
Tips and Best Practices
- Always disable directory indexing on sensitive directories such as configuration or upload folders.
- Use an index file (like index.html) in directories you want visitors to see instead of listings.
- For public file repositories, Fancy Indexing offers a better browsing experience.
Indexes Interface on Govaio Hosting
At Govaio.com, we provide full cPanel access including the Indexes tool, allowing you to customize directory listings securely and easily.
Need help with configuring your site’s directory indexing? Contact us at:
📞 +91-657-3599171
🌐 www.govaio.com