What is htaccess File
htaccess files (or “distributed configuration files”) provide a way to make configuration changes on a per-directory basis
The htaccess file is a distributed configuration file used to configure certain aspects of your website, like redirects, IP management, and more.. This file allows you to specify and apply configuration directives on your site. Making any changes to the file should be done with caution as it can influence your site’s Speed, Security and Accessibility.
htaccess files are essential WordPress files that can enable or disable website features hosted on the server. htaccess files manage permalink structures and redirect 301. Plugins use .htaccess files to operate, including caching and security plugins modify .htaccess to perform their functions.
If you place the htaccess file in the root directory of your website, the file’s configurations would apply to all the URLs on your site.
Benefits of htaccess File
- Setting up redirects
- Enabling hotlink protection
- Altering access restriction
- Rewriting a URL – Creating an SEO-friendly URL to increase search engine crawlability and indexability.
- Password-protect directories – Commanding that every directory requires a valid user by setting up a password and creating a .htpasswd file.
- Serving customized error pages – Customizing messages that appear on your “404 error not found” pages.
With htaccess File You Can
Rewriting URLs
Password Protection
Redirects
