# Viewing and editing files in cPanel's File Manager

> Open files to view them or edit them directly on the server using the editors in cPanel's File Manager.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/cpanel/files/viewing-and-editing-files-in-cpanels-file-manager/

**Viewing and editing files in cPanel's File Manager**\
This guide explains how to view and edit files directly on your web server using cPanel’s File Manager.

**Viewing a file**\
If you only need to check the contents of a file without making changes, you can open it in view mode.

To view a file:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. On the **Tools** page, in the **Files** section, click **File Manager**.
3. In File Manager, select the file you want to view.
4. Click the **View** icon.
5. The file will open in a new tab or window for you to review.

**Editing a file**\
Editing a file directly in File Manager allows you to update your website quickly without needing to re-upload files.

You can edit any plain text file, such as:

- Configuration files
- HTML, CSS, or JavaScript files

To edit a file:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. On the **Tools** page, in the **Files** section, click **File Manager**.
3. Select the file you want to edit.
4. Click the **Edit** icon.
5. Choose the correct **character encoding** (utf-8 is the default).

   - *Important:* Selecting the wrong encoding may damage the file.
6. Click **Edit** to open the editor.
7. Make your changes.
8. Click **Save Changes** when you’re done.

   - If you decide not to save the changes, simply close the editor.

To exit the editor, click **Close**.