---
title: "What is the Apache .htpasswd file?"
source: "https://docs.nexcess.com/sites-stores/server-administration/linux/apache-web-server/htpasswd-file/"
description: "Learn more about the Apache .htpasswd file. This article provides the definition and purpose of the .htpasswd file and how it facilitates basic access authentic…"
vertical: "Sites & Stores"
date: "2019-09-10"
last_modified: "2026-06-30"
---

# What is the Apache .htpasswd file?

## Definition

The Apache HTTP server allows a user to configure two files which restrict access to content by “authorized” eyes only. Passwords will be stored in an encrypted format and the username will be in plaintext. One of these files which create this restricted access is the Apache .htpasswd file, a [flat-file](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat_file_database) used to store usernames and password for [basic authentication](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basic_access_authentication) on an [Apache HTTP Server](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server).

For more information, visit [apache.org](http://www.apache.org/).

## Purpose

You can edit your Apache .htpasswd file(s) using FTP or SiteWorx.