File Manager gives direct access to the files in a hosting account. That makes it useful, but it also bypasses WordPress and most of the safeguards you normally get in the dashboard.
File Manager is useful for
- Uploading or downloading a known file
- Checking whether a file exists
- Reviewing file and folder sizes
- Renaming a file temporarily during troubleshooting
- Working with a file when WordPress itself is unavailable
Be careful with WordPress files
Do not casually edit WordPress core, plugin or theme files on a live site. An update can overwrite the change, a syntax error can take the site offline, and File Manager does not give you a reliable undo history.
Before a direct change
- Confirm that you are in the correct website directory.
- Make sure there is a current backup.
- Download a copy of the file you are about to change.
- Make one change at a time and test immediately.
If the change is part of normal site development
Use the normal development and deployment workflow instead. File Manager is a troubleshooting tool, not a substitute for version-controlled development.
Need help? If you are a Mumford Connect client and would rather not make the change yourself, use the Support page and include the affected domain or email address.