# Suspending and unsuspending accounts in WHM

> Suspend or unsuspend cPanel accounts in WHM, add a suspension reason, and know what users see while suspended.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/vps/whm/suspending-and-unsuspending-accounts-in-whm/

**WebHost Manager (WHM)** allows VPS and dedicated server administrators to suspend or unsuspend cPanel accounts. This is typically done for reasons such as non‑payment, policy violations, or resource overuse.

## Why Suspend Accounts?

- Temporarily disable access for non‑payment.
- Enforce compliance with hosting policies.
- Prevent accounts from consuming excessive resources.
- Secure compromised accounts until issues are resolved.

## Suspending an Account

1. **Log in to WHM.**
2. In the left sidebar, search for **Suspend/Unsuspend Accounts**.
3. Select the account you want to suspend.
4. (Optional) Enter a **reason for suspension** — this will appear in WHM logs.
5. Click **Suspend**. The account’s website will display a suspension notice, and cPanel/FTP access will be disabled.

## Unsuspending an Account

1. In WHM, search for **Suspend/Unsuspend Accounts**.
2. Locate the suspended account.
3. Click **Unsuspend**. The account will be restored, and all services (website, cPanel, FTP, email) will resume.

## Customizing the Suspension Page

- WHM allows you to customize the default suspension page shown to visitors.
- To edit:

  1. Log in to the server via SSH or File Manager.
  2. Navigate to:

     ```
     /usr/local/cpanel/base/frontend/paper_lantern/suspended.tmpl
     ```
  3. Modify the template to include your branding or instructions. ⚠️ Be careful not to remove required system variables.

> **Note:**
- Suspension does not delete account data — it only disables access.
- Unsuspending restores the account exactly as it was before suspension.
- Always document the reason for suspension for auditing purposes.
- Suspension is reversible, but termination (deletion) is permanent.