How to rename files and folders in cPanel

What is File Manager?

cPanel is the control panel you use to manage your hosting. File Manager is a tool inside it. It works like the Files app on a computer. You can see, move, copy and rename the files that make up your website.

Warning: Renaming files used by your website can break it. For example, if you rename index.php, visitors may see an error. Take a backup first if you are not sure.

Steps

Log in to cPanel. Your welcome email or the client area at https://secure.hostvento.com/clientarea.php shows how to reach it.
In the Files section, click File Manager.
Open the folder that holds your item. Website files are usually in public_html.
Click once on the file or folder to select it.
Click Rename in the top toolbar. You can also right-click the item and choose Rename.
Type the new name in the box.
Click Rename File to save.
Check that the new name shows in the list.

Name rules to remember

Names are case sensitive. Photo.jpg and photo.jpg are two different files.
Do not use spaces. Use dashes or underscores, like my-photo.jpg.
Keep the file ending, such as .html or .jpg. It tells the computer what kind of file it is.
Avoid special characters such as & and ?.

If your site breaks after renaming

Go back to File Manager.
Select the item you renamed.
Click Rename and type the old name again.
Reload your website.

If a web page links to a renamed image or file, the link will break too. Update the link on the page, or keep the old name.

Tip: To change many names at once, a plugin or a script may be easier. Ask Hostvento support if you need help.

Quick recap

Open File Manager in cPanel.
Select the item and click Rename.
Type the new name and save.
Do not rename files your site needs unless you update links.
You can undo by renaming back.