Learn how to find the root directory in WordPress using cPanel, FTP, or hosting panels. Also, discover how to verify your WordPress site in Google Search Console for better SEO.
Introduction
If you are managing a WordPress website, you may need to access the root directory at some point. The root directory contains essential files like wp-config.php, .htaccess, and wp-content, which control how your website functions. Whether you need to install a new plugin, fix an issue, or verify your site with Google Search Console, knowing how to locate your root directory is crucial.
In this blog, we’ll guide you step by step on how to find the root directory in WordPress. We’ll also answer a common question related to Google Search Console verification.
What is the Root Directory in WordPress?
The root directory (also called the document root) is the main folder where all your WordPress files are stored. It contains important files such as:
- wp-config.php – Configuration file for your WordPress site.
- .htaccess – Controls site structure and redirections.
- wp-content/ – Contains themes, plugins, and media uploads.
- wp-admin/ – WordPress dashboard files.
- wp-includes/ – Core WordPress files.
How to Find the Root Directory in WordPress?
Method 1: Using cPanel File Manager
If your hosting provider uses cPanel, follow these steps:
- Log in to cPanel – Visit your hosting provider’s cPanel (e.g., yourwebsite.com/cpanel).
- Go to File Manager – Locate and open the File Manager tool.
- Find the ‘public_html’ Folder – This is usually your root directory.
- Access Your WordPress Files – You’ll see folders like wp-content, wp-admin, and files like wp-config.php.
Method 2: Using an FTP Client
If you prefer FTP (File Transfer Protocol), follow these steps:
- Download an FTP client – Use FileZilla (https://filezilla-project.org/) or any FTP software.
- Connect to Your Server – Enter your FTP credentials (provided by your host).
- Locate the Root Directory – After connecting, look for public_html or www.
- Access WordPress Files – You’ll see core WordPress files inside this folder.
Method 3: Using Hosting Panel (Direct Admin, Plesk, etc.)
If your hosting provider doesn’t use cPanel, you can find the root directory through your hosting dashboard by locating the File Manager and looking for the public_html folder.
Related Question: How Do I Verify My WordPress Site in Google Search Console?
To improve SEO, you need to verify your WordPress website with Google Search Console. Here’s how:
Step 1: Sign in to Google Search Console
Go to Google Search Console and sign in with your Google account.
Step 2: Add Your Website
Click ‘Add Property’ and enter your website’s URL.
Step 3: Choose a Verification Method
Google provides several ways to verify ownership:
- HTML File Upload (Recommended) – Download the verification file from Google and upload it to your root directory via cPanel or FTP.
- HTML Tag – Copy the provided meta tag and paste it into the
<head>section of your site using a plugin like Insert Headers and Footers. - DNS Record – Add the verification TXT record in your domain’s DNS settings.
- Google Analytics – If you already use Google Analytics, you can verify through it.
Step 4: Verify and Submit Sitemap
After verification, submit your sitemap.xml to Google Search Console to help Google index your site faster.
Conclusion
Finding the root directory in WordPress is essential for various tasks, such as editing configuration files, installing custom scripts, and verifying your site with Google Search Console. Whether you use cPanel, FTP, or a hosting dashboard, you can easily access it using the methods shared above.
By verifying your website with Google Search Console, you ensure better search engine visibility and SEO performance.