In web servers and server management, Plesk comes out as a robust and versatile control panel that simplifies the management of web server accounts. Among its many features, the Plesk File Manager stands out as a crucial tool for website administrators and developers. This comprehensive guide covers what Plesk File Manager is, its features, and why it’s good for managing your website’s files and directories efficiently.
This blog is a part of our Plesk server management services where we make sure your Plesk server works efficiently with any issues.
What is Plesk File Manager?
Plesk File Manager is an integral part of the Plesk control panel, designed to offer a graphical user interface (GUI) for managing files on your server. It allows users to perform a wide array of file operations without the need for FTP (File Transfer Protocol) clients or direct server access. From creating, editing, and deleting files and folders to changing permissions and uploading files, the File Manager equips you with the capability to manage your web hosting environment seamlessly.
Key Features of Plesk File Manager
- User-Friendly Interface: The File Manager provides a straightforward and intuitive interface, making file management accessible even to beginners.
- Comprehensive File Operations: Users can execute various file operations such as creating, uploading, editing, moving, copying, and deleting files and directories directly from the web interface.
- File Permissions Management: It allows for the modification of file and folder permissions, ensuring secure access control.
- Archive and Extract Files: Users can easily compress files into archives and extract them, facilitating efficient file transfer and management.
- Direct File Editing: With the built-in code editor, users can directly edit HTML, PHP, CSS, JavaScript, and other file types, making quick changes possible without the need to download, edit, and re-upload files.
- Search Functionality: The search feature enables users to quickly locate files or folders within their hosting space.
Why Use Plesk File Manager?
- Efficiency and Speed: Plesk File Manager streamlines file management, allowing for quick updates and changes directly through the web browser, eliminating the need for additional FTP software.
- Accessibility: It offers the convenience of accessing and managing your files from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection and access to your Plesk panel.
- Security: By managing files directly through the Plesk interface, you’re leveraging the security measures implemented in Plesk, reducing the risk associated with third-party FTP clients.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The inclusion of File Manager in Plesk eliminates the need for additional file management tools or software, making it a cost-effective solution for website management.
Getting Started with Plesk File Manager
To access Plesk File Manager, log into your Plesk control panel, navigate to the “Files” section, and you’ll be presented with the File Manager interface. Here are a few tips for getting started:
- Explore the interface: Familiarise yourself with the layout and the various options available in the File Manager.
- Manage files and folders: Practise creating new files/folders, uploading files, and editing existing ones to get a feel for how the File Manager works.
- Check file permissions: Review the permissions of your files and folders to ensure they are correctly set for your website’s security and functionality.
- Use the search feature: Learn how to use the search functionality to efficiently find files within your hosting environment.
How to Uuse Plesk File Manager
The file manager facilitates the uploading, deletion, and organization of all website files.
1. Select “Websites and Domains.
2. Choose the “File Manager” icon.
3. Proceed to the httpdocs directory. (Note: The httpdocs directory serves the same purpose as the public_html folder in cPanel, acting as the storage location for your files.)
How to Add and Remove a Directory
To manage directories within Plesk, follow these steps:
1. Sign into Plesk.
2. Go to the “Websites & Domains” section and access the File Manager.
3. To add a new directory, click the “+” symbol to reveal more options.
4. Choose “Create a Directory” from the dropdown menu.
5. Enter the desired name for the directory and click “OK” to establish it. You’ll be automatically navigated into the new directory.
6. To delete a directory, select it using the checkbox and click “Remove.”
7. Confirm the deletion by ticking the confirmation box and selecting “Yes.”
How to Create a New File
1. Log in to Plesk.
2. In the Websites & Domains section, navigate to the File Manager.
3. To create a new file, click the + symbol to expand the options.
4. Select Create a file from the options.
5. Enter the file name you wish to create, then click OK.
How to Upload a New File
To upload a new file in Plesk, follow these instructions:
1. Access Plesk by logging in.
2. Within the “Websites & Domains” section, proceed to the File Manager.
3. For creating a new file, tap the “+” icon to unveil additional choices.
4. From the available options, select “Upload File.”
5. Click on “Choose File” to locate the file you wish to upload.
6. Select the file by browsing your device, click “Open,” and then confirm by clicking “OK.”
How to Change the File Permissions
1. Click on the dropdown on the right side of the file you wish to modify.
2. On the dropdown, select Change Permissions.
3. Then click on Save.
Changing the Maximum Upload File Size
Please be aware that the instructions provided are specifically for Windows VPS or Dedicated Servers.
The maximum file size for uploads is determined by the PHP settings configured in Plesk on your server. You can upload files up to this limit via the File Manager.
Setting the Maximum File Size Limit
- Find the .ini file by navigating to `/usr/local/psa/admin/conf/php.ini`.
- Update the `upload_max_filesize` and `post_max_size` to your preferred limits.
- Execute the `etc/init.d/psa restart` command to reboot the web server.
Important Reminder
Keep in mind that altering these settings will impact both the service provider and all customers hosted on the server.
Conclusion
Plesk File Manager is an essential tool for anyone looking to manage their website files efficiently and securely. Its comprehensive set of features, coupled with an intuitive interface, makes website file management a hassle-free task. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a novice website owner, Plesk File Manager provides you with the tools you need to maintain your website’s files effectively, ensuring your online presence is always up to date and secure.
