# Logging in and out of cPanel

> Log in to cPanel through the client area or directly, and log out securely when you have finished.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/cpanel/getting-started/logging-in-and-out-of-cpanel/

cPanel is the control panel included with your Ruachost hosting plan. It gives you an easy way to manage your website, files, email, databases, and more. This article explains how to log in and log out securely.

## Logging In to cPanel

There are two main ways to access your cPanel account:

### **Method 1: Through the Ruachost Dashboard (Recommended)**

1. Log in to your [ruachost.com](dashboard.ruachost.com).
2. Go to Services.
3. Locate and click on your hosting plan.
4. Click **Login to cPanel**.

   - A new window opens, and you’re automatically logged in.
   - No need to remember separate usernames or passwords.

### **Method 2: Direct Login**

1. Open your web browser.
2. In the address bar, type one of the following (replace `example.com` with your domain):

   - `http://example.com/cpanel`
   - `http://cpanel.example.com`
   - `http://example.com:2082` (non-SSL)
   - `https://example.com:2083` (SSL – recommended)
3. Enter your **cPanel username** and **password**.

   - You can find or reset these in your Ruachost Dashboard.
4. Click **Log In**.

   - The cPanel home screen will appear.

## Logging Out of cPanel

Always log out when you’re finished to keep your account secure.

1. In the top-right corner of cPanel, click your **username menu**.
2. Select **Log Out**.
3. Your session ends, and you’re returned to the login screen.

> **Note:**
If you don’t log out manually, cPanel will eventually time out automatically. However, logging out yourself is safer.