File permissions control who can read, write, or run files and folders on your hosting account.
They help protect your website files and allow the server to access the files it needs to load your website.
Incorrect file permissions can cause website errors or security risks.
Why Are File Permissions Important?
File permissions are important because they control access to website files.
If permissions are too strict, your website may not work correctly.
If permissions are too open, your website may be less secure.
Correct permissions help balance website functionality and security.
What Do Read, Write, and Execute Mean?
File permissions usually include three types of access.
Read means a file or folder can be viewed.
Write means a file or folder can be changed.
Execute means a file or folder can be run or accessed as needed by the server.
Folders usually need execute permission so the server can open them.
What Do Permission Numbers Mean?
You may see file permissions written as numbers.
Common examples include:
644
755
750
These numbers represent different combinations of read, write, and execute permissions.
Common File Permissions
Many websites use permissions similar to:
Files: 644
Folders: 755
This is common for many standard websites, including WordPress sites.
However, exact permission requirements may differ depending on your website or application.
What Happens If Permissions Are Incorrect?
Incorrect permissions can cause problems such as:
- Website not loading
- 403 Forbidden errors
- 500 Internal Server Errors
- Images not displaying
- Uploads failing
- Plugins not updating
- Permission denied errors
- Security risks
Permissions That Are Too Open
Permissions that are too open can be a security risk.
For example, setting files or folders to 777 can allow too much access.
You should avoid using 777 unless a trusted developer or HostworX Support specifically tells you to do so for a valid reason.
Permissions That Are Too Strict
Permissions that are too strict can stop your website from working.
For example, if a folder cannot be accessed by the server, visitors may see a 403 Forbidden error.
If a script cannot write to a required folder, uploads or cache files may fail.
File Permissions and WordPress
WordPress websites rely on correct permissions for files and folders.
Incorrect permissions may affect:
- Plugin updates
- Theme updates
- Media uploads
- Cache files
- Security plugins
- wp-content folder
- .htaccess file
If WordPress cannot write to required folders, you may see update or upload errors.
Step 1 – Log Into DirectAdmin
Open your browser and visit: https://cp.yourdomain.co.za (Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.)
Enter your DirectAdmin username and password.
Click: Log In
Step 2 – Open File Manager
Once you are logged into DirectAdmin, open File Manager.
Click: System Info & Files
Then click: File Manager
Step 3 – Find the File or Folder
Open the folder where your website files are stored.
Click: domains
Then click: yourdomain.co.za
Then click: public_html
Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.
Locate: File or folder, example: wp-content
Step 4 – View or Change Permissions
Select the file or folder you want to check.
Click: Permissions
or
Click: Set Permissions
The wording may differ depending on the DirectAdmin version.
Review the permission value before making changes.
Important Notes
Please keep the following in mind:
- File permissions affect website security and functionality.
- Incorrect permissions can break your website.
- Avoid using 777 permissions unless specifically instructed.
- Many websites use 644 for files and 755 for folders.
- Always check with your developer before changing important permissions.
- Changing permissions recursively can affect many files at once.
When Should I Change File Permissions?
You may need to change file permissions if:
- Your website shows a 403 Forbidden error.
- Your website shows permission denied errors.
- WordPress cannot upload images.
- Plugins or themes cannot update.
- A developer has requested a permission change.
- File Manager shows incorrect permissions.
- A restore or migration changed permissions incorrectly.
When Should I Contact HostworX Support?
Contact HostworX Support if:
- You are unsure what permissions to use.
- Your website breaks after changing permissions.
- You see permission denied errors.
- WordPress cannot upload media.
- Your website shows a 403 or 500 error.
- You are not sure whether a permission change is safe.
Conclusion
File permissions control access to website files and folders.
Correct permissions help your website work properly while keeping files safer.
Do not change permissions randomly, and avoid insecure permissions such as 777 unless you have a clear reason and trusted guidance.
