Disable the Default Trash Option in the DirectAdmin File Manager

What is the Trash option?

The File Manager is the tool inside DirectAdmin where you manage files. Like the recycle bin on a computer, it has a Trash. When you delete a file, DirectAdmin can move it to the Trash first. You can restore it if you made a mistake. The catch is that trashed files still use up your disk space until you empty the Trash.

Some people prefer to delete files for good right away. This saves space.

Warning: if you turn the Trash off, deleted files cannot be restored. Take a backup first.

Option 1: Choose it each time

In many versions, the delete box has a choice such as Move to Trash or Delete permanently.

1. Open File Manager.
2. Tick the file or folder.
3. Click Delete.
4. In the box that opens, choose the permanent option.
5. Confirm.

Option 2: Change the default for everyone

This part is for server owners with admin access, on a VPS or dedicated server. Admin settings decide the default for all users.

1. Log in to DirectAdmin as admin.
2. Open Admin Level and look in Administrator Settings or Server Manager.
3. Look for a setting about the File Manager Trash.
4. Change it so the default is to delete without the Trash.
5. Click Save.

If the setting is not in the menus, it may be in the main settings file, /usr/local/directadmin/conf/directadmin.conf. Editing it needs root access. Make a copy of the file first. Check the official DirectAdmin option list for the exact name, then restart the panel:

systemctl restart directadmin

This command restarts DirectAdmin so it reads the change.

Quick recap

• The Trash keeps deleted files so you can restore them.
• Trashed files still use disk space.
• Choose permanent delete per action, or change the default as admin.
• Back up first, as there is no undo.