This tutorial explains how to upload a ZIP archive through cPanel File Manager and and extract its contents into the intended directory. It helps transfer several files together or deploy a site. Check the archive contents and keep backups before replacing existing files.
What is a ZIP file?
A ZIP archive packages files and directories into one file, usually with compression. This simplifies transferring a site’s directory structure.
Sign in to cPanel and open File Manager
First sign in to your authorized cPanel account:
Sign in to your cPanel account
On the dashboard, find Files
Open File Manager
The interface displays your hosting account’s file structure.
Upload the ZIP to the right directory
To upload the archive:
In File Manager, open the intended destination directory. For the primary site, this is often public_html.
Click Uploadin the toolbar
On the upload page, click Select File , then select the archive .zip from your computer
Wait until progress reaches 100 %. Then return to File Manager
Extract the ZIP in cPanel
After uploading, follow these steps:
Find your archive with the extension .zip.
Click once to select it.
Then click Extract in the toolbar, or right-click the archive and choose Extract.
A dialog asks where to extract the files. The suggested destination is usually the archive’s current directory. Check it carefully and avoid overwriting files unintentionally.
Click Extract Files to start extraction.
Review the extraction results, then click Close.
Clean up if needed
After extraction:
Check that all expected files are present in the intended directory, including the correct nested-folder structure.
If you no longer need the archive, you can delete it to free space. Remove public archives containing configuration or other sensitive files promptly.
What if you need help?
If the expected controls are missing Upload or Extractor File Manager behaves differently, check:
That you have appropriate permissions on the account
Or contact our technical support for assistance.
Reference documentation:
Sources accessed on October 11, 2026. Available features depend on your hosting version and options.
