Upload an index file with FileZilla when publishing a homepage or deliberately replacing an existing entry page. Common names include index.html and index.php, but the server's configured priority determines which file loads. Adding an index file can override an existing website or CMS homepage.
Before you start
- Confirm the site's document root in the hosting panel. The primary site often uses public_html, while other domains can use separate directories.
- Back up the existing entry file and related assets. Do not replace a WordPress index.php or add index.html over a CMS unless that change is intentional.
Instructions
Connect and locate the website
Connect using the authorized secure FileZilla profile. In the remote pane, open the recorded document root; a restricted account may already be inside it.
Check the local file
In the local pane, locate the prepared index file. Confirm its complete filename and extension, including capitalization, and check it is not accidentally saved as index.html.txt.
Preserve the current version
Download the existing remote entry file to a separate backup folder before replacement. Keep the backup outside the public website directory so its contents are not exposed.
Upload deliberately
Right-click the local file and choose Upload. If FileZilla asks to overwrite an existing file, compare the names and destination carefully before confirming that replacement.
Check dependent assets
Upload any required images, stylesheets, or scripts into the paths referenced by the page. Wait for the queue to finish and review Failed transfers.
Check the result
- The remote listing shows the intended entry file, and FileZilla reports a successful transfer.
- Open the website root and the exact entry-file URL in a browser; check the page and its assets.
Troubleshooting
- The old homepage still loads.
- Check the document root, browser or CDN cache, and competing index files. Ask support about entry-file priority before deleting existing files.
- The root address returns a 403 error.
- Confirm the expected index filename exists in the correct root and is readable. Do not enable directory listing as a substitute for publishing the intended page.
Watch the video
The video may show an older interface. Use the written instructions above when screen names differ.
Continue with a related task
- How to Add an Addon Domain in cPanel
- How to Connect FileZilla to Your Hosting Account
- How to Download Website Files with FileZilla
