Security & Protection3 min read•Updated September 2026

How to Protect Your .htaccess File and Block Unauthorized Access

The .htaccess file controls routing, caching, security headers, and rewrite rules. If exposed, attackers can analyze server directives. HubforHost provides native LiteSpeed rules to protect it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Open cPanel File Manager

Go to cPanel > Files > File Manager. In Settings (top right), ensure 'Show Hidden Files (dotfiles)' is checked.

2

Edit .htaccess in public_html

Right-click .htaccess and choose 'Edit'.

3

Add Protection Directive

Paste the following directive at the very top of your .htaccess file:

<FilesMatch "^\.ht">
    Require all denied
</FilesMatch>
4

Save Changes and Test

Save the file. Visit https://yourdomain.com/.htaccess in your browser; you should receive a 403 Forbidden response.

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