# Using the Index Manager in cPanel

> Use Index Manager in cPanel to show or hide the file listing visitors see in folders that have no index page.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/cpanel/advanced/using-the-index-manager-in-cpanel/

The **Index Manager** in cPanel allows you to control how directories on your website are displayed when no index file (like `index.html` or `index.php`) is present. By default, if a directory doesn’t have an index file, visitors may see a list of all files inside that folder. With Index Manager, you can customize or restrict this behavior to improve security and user experience.

## Why Use Index Manager?

- Prevent visitors from browsing sensitive files in directories.
- Control whether directory contents are visible or hidden.
- Customize the way your site handles missing index files.

## Steps to Configure Index Manager

1. **Log in to cPanel.**
2. On the **Tools page → Advanced section**, click **Index Manager**.
3. Navigate through the directory tree to select the folder you want to manage.
4. Choose one of the following options:

   - **Default System Setting** → Uses the server’s default configuration.
   - **No Indexing** → Prevents directory contents from being listed. Visitors see a *403 Forbidden* error.
   - **Standard Indexing** → Displays filenames only.
   - **Fancy Indexing** → Displays filenames with additional details (file size, modification date).
5. Click **Save** to apply changes.

> **Note:**
- Use **No Indexing** for directories containing sensitive files (e.g., configuration files, scripts).
- Fancy indexing is useful for public download directories where you want visitors to see file details.
- Index Manager affects only directories without an index file. If an index file exists, it will always take precedence.