# How to use Apache Handlers in cPanel

> Apache Handlers tell your web server how to process particular file types, letting you control what happens when certain files are requested.

Source: https://www.kualo.com/knowledgebase/cpanel-advanced/how-to-use-apache-handlers-in-cpanel
Updated: 2026-06-11

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An **Apache Handler** tells the web server how to treat a particular type of file when someone requests it. Most file types already have a handler built in, but you can add your own - for example, to make the server run a certain extension as a CGI script. This is an advanced tool; most websites never need to change it.

## Open Apache Handlers

Log in to cPanel and, in the **Advanced** section, click **Apache Handlers**.

![The Apache Handlers tool in cPanel](https://kb-cdn.kualo.com/8a/b2/8ab2e2ce1e63dd6c1d0a9ff75fd6ca6b2745b930.png)

## Create a handler

In the **Create an Apache Handler** section:

1. In the **Handler** box, enter the name of the handler you want to use (for example `cgi-script`).
2. In the **Extension(s)** box, enter the file extension or extensions it should apply to (for example `.cgi`). Separate multiple extensions with a space.
3. Click **Add**.

Your new handler appears in the **User Defined Apache Handlers** table, where you can remove it later from the **Actions** column.

## Built-in handlers

The **System Apache Handlers** table further down the page lists the handlers Apache already applies by default - for example `cgi-script` for `.cgi`, `.pl` and `.perl` files, and `server-parsed` for `.shtml` files. These are shown for reference and cannot be edited.

:::warning
Setting the wrong handler for a file type can stop those files working. If you are not sure you need a custom handler, it is safest to leave this tool alone.
:::


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_Source: Kualo Knowledgebase — https://www.kualo.com/knowledgebase/cpanel-advanced/how-to-use-apache-handlers-in-cpanel · © Kualo Ltd._