In modern PHP applications, file manipulation and file type detection are common requirements. This is where the Fileinfo PHP extension becomes extremely important. Without Fileinfo, many popular CMS platforms, plugins, and scripts fail to handle file uploads or file type validation properly.
In this detailed guide, we will show you How to Enable Fileinfo Extension in cPanel, step-by-step, with actual screenshots and easy explanations. Whether you are a beginner or a developer, this tutorial will help you How to Enable Fileinfo Extension in cPanel effortlessly on your hosting account powered by Hostrago.
What is Fileinfo Extension?
Fileinfo is a PHP extension that helps PHP applications determine the type of a file by analyzing its content, rather than simply depending on file extensions. This is crucial for:
- Secure file uploads
- MIME type detection
- Image and media management
- Content-type validation
Many popular CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, Joomla, Magento, and Laravel require Fileinfo to function correctly.
Why Enable Fileinfo in cPanel?
By default, not all hosting providers enable the Fileinfo extension. Enabling it ensures:
- Smooth functioning of PHP applications.
- Avoid unexpected plugin or CMS errors.
- Enhance file handling security.
- Full compliance with app requirements.
If you’re using Hostrago’s cPanel hosting, enabling Fileinfo is extremely simple and can be done in a few clicks.
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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Enable Fileinfo Extension in cPanel
Let’s get started with the tutorial of How to Enable Fileinfo Extension in cPanel. Below are the steps with visual references from the screenshots you provided.
Step 1: Login to Your cPanel Account
First, access your cPanel dashboard by logging in through your hosting provider.
If you don’t know how to log in, please follow our full guide here: 👉 How to Login in cPanel
Step 2: Navigate to PHP Selector
Once you’re inside your cPanel account:
- Scroll down to the Software section.
- Click on Select PHP Version (highlighted in red box and arrow in your screenshot).
Step 3: Open Extensions Tab
You’ll be directed to PHP Selector interface.
- Click on the Extensions tab to view all available PHP extensions (highlighted by red box and arrow in your provided screenshot).
Step 4: Locate and Enable Fileinfo
Scroll through the list or press Ctrl+F and search for fileinfo.
- Check the box next to fileinfo to enable it.
- The box will turn blue indicating it’s active.
(Again, perfectly shown in your provided screenshot with red highlight.)
Step 5: Save and Apply Changes
Once you’ve checked Fileinfo:
- Click the Apply button to save your changes.
- You can now verify that Fileinfo is enabled by creating a
phpinfo()file or simply checking your CMS or application’s system requirements.
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Fileinfo Use Cases in Real Life PHP Projects
- WordPress Plugins like WooCommerce, Elementor, WPForms.
- Laravel Applications for file uploads.
- Magento Stores for media management.
- Security Software for validating uploaded files.
Without Fileinfo, many of these applications will throw errors or simply refuse to process file uploads correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Fileinfo Extension in PHP?
The Fileinfo extension is a PHP module that allows PHP scripts to determine the actual file type by inspecting the file’s content rather than relying on the file extension. This helps ensure more secure and accurate file uploads and MIME type detection.
2. Why is Fileinfo Extension Required?
Many content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Joomla, Magento, and Laravel depend on Fileinfo for:
- Secure file uploads
- File format validation
- MIME type checking
- Media management features
Without Fileinfo enabled, certain plugins or core features of these platforms may not function properly.
3. Is Fileinfo Extension Safe to Enable?
Yes, Fileinfo is completely safe. In fact, enabling it enhances security by allowing proper validation of uploaded files, thus preventing malicious file uploads.
4. Do I Need to Restart My Server After Enabling Fileinfo?
No server restart is needed when enabling Fileinfo through cPanel’s PHP Selector. The change applies instantly once you check the box and click Apply.
5. What Should I Do If Fileinfo Is Not Available in My cPanel?
If you do not see Fileinfo in your PHP Selector:
- Contact your hosting provider’s support team.
- Ensure your hosting plan supports custom PHP modules.
- If you’re using shared hosting, some providers may restrict certain PHP extensions.
For fully supported hosting with easy Fileinfo management, check out Hostrago’s Hosting Plans.
6. Does Enabling Fileinfo Affect My Website Performance?
No, enabling Fileinfo has minimal to no impact on website performance. It only activates when PHP scripts call its functions for file type detection.
7. How Can I Verify That Fileinfo Is Enabled?
You can verify Fileinfo by:
- Creating a simple
phpinfo()page. - Searching for
Fileinfoin the PHP info output. - Alternatively, many CMS platforms will automatically verify the extension during installation or plugin setup.
8. Can I Disable Fileinfo After Enabling?
Yes, you can disable Fileinfo anytime through the PHP Selector interface by simply unchecking the checkbox and clicking Apply. However, disabling it may cause certain applications to malfunction if they rely on it.
Conclusion
How to Enable Fileinfo Extension in cPanel in cPanel is a very straightforward task if you follow the above steps carefully. Whether you’re running a personal blog, an eCommerce site, or a complex web application, enabling Fileinfo ensures your PHP applications run smoothly and securely.
If you’re still struggling with PHP extensions or need reliable hosting that simplifies these tasks, switch to Hostrago Web Hosting — your perfect hosting partner.
