Doc Summary
Introduction #
In this doc we’ll explain how to get started with cPanel. Want to know more? Go to the cPanel category within our knowledgebase.
Getting Started with cPanel #
cPanel is the main control panel used to manage your hosting services at ProRedLine. If you have a Web Hosting, Site Hosting, Email Hosting or Domain Manager package that includes cPanel access, this is the place where you manage important parts of your service such as files, domains, email, databases, and basic security settings.
You can think of cPanel as the main management dashboard for your hosting environment. Changes made there usually apply directly to your hosting account.
What cPanel Is Used For #
cPanel is used to manage hosting-related settings from one central interface. Depending on your package, you may use it for things such as:
- managing website files
- creating email accounts
- viewing or adjusting connected domains
- managing databases
- changing PHP-related settings
- accessing backups and security tools
Not every subscription includes the same features, so the tools you see may differ depending on your package.
What cPanel Is Not #
It is also important to understand what cPanel is not. cPanel is not a website builder and it is not the same as WordPress or another content management system. It helps manage the hosting environment, but it does not create or design your website for you.
For example:
- use cPanel to manage hosting settings
- use WordPress or another CMS to manage website content
What You See After Logging In #
When you open cPanel, the interface is usually divided into sections with tool icons. At the top, you will normally see a search bar, which is one of the fastest ways to find a tool if you do not know exactly where it is located.
In general, the cPanel home screen contains:
- a search bar at the top
- grouped tool sections
- account and security options in the header area
If a feature is not included in your package, it may be hidden or unavailable.
The Main Sections in cPanel #
You do not need to learn every cPanel tool at once. For most new customers, it is enough to understand the main sections and what they are commonly used for.
Domains #
The Domains section is used for domain-related hosting settings. Depending on your package, this is where you may manage connected domains, redirects, document roots, and DNS-related tools such as the Zone Editor.
This section is mainly about how your domains connect to websites and related services.
Files #
The Files section is used to manage the actual files stored in your hosting account. This is where tools such as File Manager, FTP accounts, Web Disk, and backup-related features are usually found.
If you are uploading a website manually or checking files on your account, this is one of the most important sections.
Databases #
The Databases section is used for database-related tools such as MySQL databases, database users, permissions, and phpMyAdmin. If your website uses dynamic content, such as WordPress, the database section is often relevant.
New users do not always need this immediately, but many modern websites depend on it in the background.
Email #
If your package includes email hosting, the Email section is where you manage mailboxes and email-related settings. This can include:
- email accounts
- forwarders
- autoresponders
- spam-related settings
- email deliverability tools
If your package does not include email, this section may be missing or limited.
Security #
The Security section contains tools that help protect your account and hosting environment. Depending on the package and server setup, this may include SSL-related tools, two-factor authentication, IP blocking, and other protection features.
For new users, this is often a good place to review once the account is set up.
Software and Advanced #
The Software or Advanced sections usually contain more technical tools such as PHP settings, cron jobs, application-related settings, and other environment controls.
These sections are useful later on, but many customers do not need them immediately when first getting started.
What Features You Get Depends on Your Package #
The exact cPanel layout depends on the type of service you have.
In general:
- Web Hosting / Site Hosting packages usually include the broadest cPanel access
- Email Hosting packages are more focused on email-related tools
- some features may be hidden, limited, or disabled based on the package
This is normal. It simply means your cPanel view is tailored to the service you are using.
Best Way to Get Started #
If you are new to cPanel, the best approach is not to open every tool at once. Start with the section that matches what you want to do first.
A simple starting flow is:
- go to Email if you want to create a mailbox
- go to Files if you want to upload or manage website files
- go to Domains if you want to check domain-related settings
- use the search bar if you already know the tool name
This makes cPanel much easier to navigate.
Good First Tip #
If you cannot find something, use the search bar first. cPanel contains many tools, and searching by name is usually much faster than manually browsing every section.
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