Uploading a WordPress theme manually through cPanel is a great option when you are facing issues with the built-in WordPress theme uploader or if your theme file size exceeds the WordPress limit. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of manually uploading a WordPress theme using cPanel.
Why Upload a WordPress Theme Manually?
There are several reasons why you might need to upload a WordPress theme manually, including:
- The theme file is too large for the WordPress uploader.
- Issues with internet connectivity cause the upload to fail.
- Direct file management is required for customization.
- Troubleshooting theme installation errors.
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process.
Step 1: Access Your cPanel Account
- Log in to your hosting provider’s cPanel account.
- Look for the File Manager option and click on it.
- Navigate to the public_html directory, which contains all WordPress files.
Step 2: Locate the wp-content/themes Directory
- In the public_html folder, find the wp-content directory.
- Open the themes folder where all WordPress themes are stored.
Step 3: Upload Your Theme ZIP File
- Click the Upload button at the top of the cPanel File Manager.
- Select the theme ZIP file from your computer (Make sure you’ve downloaded a compatible WordPress theme).
- Wait for the upload to complete.
Step 4: Extract the Theme ZIP File
- Once uploaded, go back to the themes folder in File Manager.
- Right-click on the ZIP file and select Extract.
- A pop-up will appear; confirm by clicking Extract File(s).
- After extraction, you will see a new folder with your theme’s name.
Step 5: Activate the Theme in WordPress
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
- Navigate to Appearance > Themes.
- Find your uploaded theme and click Activate.
Step 6: Customize Your Theme
Now that your theme is successfully uploaded and activated, you can go to Appearance > Customize to start tweaking the design, colors, fonts, and other settings as per your needs.
Bonus Tip: Delete the ZIP File
After extracting the theme, go back to File Manager and delete the theme ZIP file to save storage space on your server.
Final Thoughts
Manually uploading a WordPress theme via cPanel is an easy and effective way to install a theme when the default WordPress uploader isn’t working. By following these steps, you can successfully add a new theme to your website and enhance its design without any hassle.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others! For more WordPress tutorials, stay tuned to Web WP Creator.