# Using skeleton files for customer account default content

> Use skeleton files in WHM so every new cPanel account starts with default content, such as a welcome page.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/vps/whm/using-skeleton-files-for-customer-account-default-content/

When you create new customer accounts in **WebHost Manager (WHM)**, their `public_html` and `public_ftp` directories are empty by default. Without an index file, visitors see a **403 Forbidden** error. To avoid this, you can use **skeleton files** to automatically provide default content for every new account.

## Why Use Skeleton Files?

- Provide a welcome page for new accounts.
- Ensure visitors see a friendly message instead of an error.
- Save time by automatically copying default files into each new account.
- Maintain consistent branding across customer sites.

## Setting Up Skeleton Files

### 1. Locate the Skeleton Directory

- Log in to your **reseller cPanel account**.
- Navigate to the **File Manager**.
- In the file listing pane, open the directory:

  ```
  /cpanel3-skel/
  ```
- Inside, you’ll find two subdirectories:

  - **public_html** → Files placed here are copied into the `public_html` directory of new accounts.
  - **public_ftp** → Files placed here are copied into the `public_ftp` directory of new accounts.

### 2. Add Default Content

- Place an `index.html` file in the **public_html** directory. Example content:

  ```
  <html>
    <head><title>Welcome!</title></head>
    <body>
      <h1>Your site is working, but no content has been added yet.</h1>
    </body>
  </html>
  ```
- Add any FTP instructions or placeholder files in **public_ftp** if needed.

### 3. Create a New Account

- Log in to **WHM**.
- Create a new hosting account.
- The files you placed in `/cpanel3-skel/public_html` and `/cpanel3-skel/public_ftp` will automatically appear in the new account’s directories.

> **Note:**
- Skeleton files apply only at the time of account creation.
- Updating skeleton files later does not affect existing accounts.
- Use skeleton files for branding, welcome messages, or basic instructions.

##