---
title: "How do I password-protect a directory in DirectAdmin?"
description: "Password protection adds a login prompt before anyone can view a folder on your site. It is handy for staging areas, private downloads, or admin sections. Here is how to set it up in DirectAdmin. ## What this does -…"
url: "https://disoh.com/support/how-do-i-password-protect-a-directory-in-directadmin/"
updated: "2026-07-22"
category: Webhosting
---

# How do I password-protect a directory in DirectAdmin?

Password protection adds a login prompt before anyone can view a folder on your site. It is handy for staging areas, private downloads, or admin sections. Here is how to set it up in DirectAdmin.

## What this does

- Adds a username and password prompt to a specific folder.
- Blocks access to everything inside that folder until the visitor logs in.
- Works at the server level, separate from any application login.

## Step-by-step: protect a directory

1. Log in to DirectAdmin (usually *yourdomain.com:2222*).
2. Go to **Advanced Features** and click **Password Protected Directories** (sometimes under File Manager).
3. Select or enter the folder path you want to protect.
4. Enable protection and set a prompt name (the text shown on the login box).
5. Create a username and password for access.
6. Save your settings.

## Adding more users

- Return to the same folder settings.
- Add extra usernames and passwords as needed.
- Remove users when they no longer need access.

## Removing protection

1. Open the protected directory settings.
2. Disable protection or delete the users.
3. Save.

## Tips

- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Protect the exact folder you mean, not the whole site by mistake.
- Combine with SSL so the login is encrypted.

## Troubleshooting

- **No login prompt appears:** confirm protection is enabled on the correct folder.
- **Login keeps failing:** re-enter the password to rule out typos.
- **Locked out:** disable protection from DirectAdmin and set it up again.

## Need help?

If protection is not working as expected, our support team can check it for you over live chat.