Indexes and MIME types control how files are displayed and interpreted on your website.
These settings affect how visitors and browsers access and understand your site content.

Indexes and MIME types are available on Web Hosting and Site Hosting packages.

What Indexes Are #

Indexes determine what happens when a visitor opens a directory without a specific file.

Example:

• Visiting yourdomain.com/files/
• The server checks for index files

Common index files include:

• index.html
• index.php

If no index file exists, the server behavior depends on index settings.

Directory Index Behavior #

Directory index behavior can be:

• Display a list of files
• Show a default index file
• Block directory access

This behavior is controlled by the server and cPanel settings.

Security Considerations for Indexes #

Allowing directory listings can:

• Expose file names
• Reveal sensitive information
• Create security risks

For most websites, directory listing should be disabled.

What MIME Types Are #

MIME types tell the server how to handle different file types.

They define:

• File type interpretation
• Content handling by browsers
• Download or display behavior

Without correct MIME types, files may not load properly.

Common MIME Type Examples #

Examples include:

• .html → text/html
• .css → text/css
• .js → application/javascript
• .json → application/json
• .pdf → application/pdf

These mappings ensure correct browser behavior.

When You Might Need Custom MIME Types #

Custom MIME types may be required for:

• New file formats
• Web applications
• Specialized downloads

Most standard websites do not need custom MIME types.

Managing Indexes and MIME Types in cPanel #

These settings can be accessed via:

• Indexes
• MIME Types

Changes apply immediately.

Common Mistakes #

• Enabling directory listing unintentionally
• Modifying MIME types without understanding impact
• Breaking file downloads or rendering

Incorrect changes can affect the entire website.

When Not to Change These Settings #

Do not change index or MIME settings if:

• Your website is working correctly
• You do not understand the change
• You are following CMS defaults

Most websites do not require manual changes.

Responsibility Notice #

You are responsible for:

• Changes made to index settings
• Correct MIME type configuration
• Avoiding unnecessary exposure of files

ProRedLine does not automatically revert index or MIME changes.