File Management
Updated 2 July 2026
Website files live on your hosting server, usually accessed via FTP, SFTP, or a hosting file manager. WordPress core files, themes, plugins, and uploads each have standard locations.
This article explains where key WordPress files are stored and how to manage edits safely with backups and staging.
WordPress paths
/wp-content/themes/theme files/wp-content/plugins/plugin files/wp-content/uploads/media library
Edit files on a staging copy when possible. Always back up before changing theme or plugin PHP files.