This article will guide you through setting up password protection for directories using the .htaccess file.

1. Create the .htpasswd File:

• Use a text editor to create a new file named .htpasswd.
• Generate a username and password combination. You can use online tools to create an encrypted password.
• Add the username and encrypted password to the .htpasswd file in the format: username:encrypted_password.
• Save the .htpasswd file.

2. Upload the .htpasswd File:

• For security reasons, place the .htpasswd file outside of your web root directory to prevent unauthorized access.

3. Create the .htaccess File:

• Navigate to the directory you want to protect.
• Create a new file named .htaccess in that directory.
• Add the following lines to the .htaccess file:

     AuthType Basic
     AuthName "Restricted Area"
     AuthUserFile /path/to/.htpasswd
     Require valid-user

• Replace /path/to/.htpasswd with the actual path to your .htpasswd file.

4. Save and Upload the .htaccess File:

• Save the .htaccess file and upload it to the directory you wish to protect.

5. Test the Password Protection:

• Navigate to the protected directory in your web browser. You should be prompted to enter the username and password you set up.

Important Notes:

• Ensure that the .htpasswd file is stored in a secure location outside the web root to prevent unauthorized access.
• Additionally, verify that your server allows the use of .htaccess files and that the AllowOverride directive is enabled in the server configuration.