A skeleton directory is a template folder on your web server that automatically copies files into every new hosting account's public_html and public_ftp directories during account creation. This feature allows server administrators and resellers to provide standardized default content, welcome pages, or essential files to all new users without manual setup for each account.
The skeleton directory streamlines the account provisioning process and ensures consistency across all new hosting accounts on your server.
How Does the Skeleton Directory Work?
When the system creates a new hosting account, it automatically copies the contents of the skeleton directory into that account's web and FTP directories. This happens during the initial account setup process, ensuring that every new user starts with the same base files and structure.
The skeleton directory typically contains two main subdirectories:
- public_html: Files placed here appear on the account's website when visitors access the domain
- public_ftp: Files placed here are available for FTP users to download
When a visitor accesses a website like example.com, they see the contents of that account's public_html directory. Any subdirectories work the same way, so example.com/subdirectory displays the contents of public_html/subdirectory.
Setting Up Your Skeleton Directory
To configure a skeleton directory for your hosting environment, follow these steps:
Step 1: Plan Your Default Content
Decide what files and content you want to provide to all new users. This might include:
- A default welcome page or coming soon page
- Standard favicon and logo files
- Common configuration files
- Terms of service or acceptable use policy documents
- Basic website structure or templates
Step 2: Place Files in the Appropriate Location
The location of your skeleton directory depends on whether you're a server administrator or reseller:
For root/server administrators:
- /root/cpanel3-skel/public_html: Place web content files here
- /root/cpanel3-skel/public_ftp: Place FTP-accessible files here
For resellers:
- /home/reseller/cpanel3-skel/public_html: Place web content files here (replace "reseller" with your username)
- /home/reseller/cpanel3-skel/public_ftp: Place FTP-accessible files here
The system automatically copies these files to new accounts' public_html and public_ftp directories during account creation.
Step 3: Organize Your Content Structure
Create subdirectories within your skeleton directory to match the structure you want new accounts to have. Any folder hierarchy you create will be replicated in each new account.
Best Practices for Skeleton Directories
To make the most of your skeleton directory setup, consider these recommendations:
- Keep it lightweight: Don't include large files that will consume disk space across all accounts
- Use generic content: Avoid account-specific information since all new accounts receive identical copies
- Include helpful resources: Provide links to your support documentation or getting started guides
- Update regularly: Review and refresh your skeleton directory content periodically to keep it current
- Test before deploying: Create a test account to verify that skeleton files copy correctly
Common Use Cases for Skeleton Directories
Hosting providers and resellers use skeleton directories for various purposes:
Welcome Pages: Display a branded welcome message or instructions for new users who haven't uploaded their website yet.
Default Error Pages: Provide custom 404 or 500 error pages that match your brand identity.
Required Documentation: Include copies of terms of service, privacy policies, or usage guidelines that users should review.
Starter Templates: Offer basic HTML templates or website frameworks that users can customize as a starting point.
Configuration Files: Pre-configure settings files like .htaccess with standard security rules or performance optimizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have different skeleton directories for different hosting packages?
The standard skeleton directory applies to all new accounts created by a specific administrator or reseller. If you need package-specific content, you would need to manually customize accounts after creation or use different reseller accounts with their own skeleton directories.
What happens if I update my skeleton directory after creating accounts?
Changes to the skeleton directory only affect new accounts created after the modification. Existing accounts retain their original files and are not automatically updated when you change the skeleton directory.
Do skeleton directory files use up my disk quota?
Yes, files copied from the skeleton directory count toward each account's disk space allocation. Keep skeleton content minimal to avoid consuming unnecessary quota across all accounts.
Can I delete the skeleton directory after creating accounts?
Deleting the skeleton directory won't affect existing accounts, as they have independent copies of the files. However, new accounts created afterward will start with empty directories instead of your template content.
OBHost's support team is available 24/7 to help you configure skeleton directories or answer questions about account provisioning. Contact us at https://www.obhost.net/contact or email support@obhost.org for assistance.
