What Is a Document Root? Understanding Website Directory

The document root is the main directory where the website files for a specific domain name are stored. In the Bluehost hosting environment, each domain—whether it’s your primary domain, an addon domain, or a subdomain—requires its own unique folder. This structure keeps each website separate and allows them to function independently.

• Primary Domain
• Addon Domains and Subdomains
• Where to Find the Document Root
• Alternative Way to Find the Document Root
• Summary
   

Primary Domain

Your primary domain is stored in the main directory called public_html.
Because this folder is dedicated to your primary domain, its files remain separate from those belonging to addon domains or subdomains.

Primary Domain Document Root:
public_html

Addon Domains and Subdomains

When you create an addon domain or a subdomain in Bluehost’s cPanel, the system automatically generates a corresponding directory. Each of these additional domains is rooted in its own separate folder.

This folder structure ensures that:

• Addon domains operate as completely separate websites
• Subdomains function as independent sections of your main website
• Files from different domains remain organized and isolated

Where to Find the Document Root

After setting up an addon domain or subdomain, you can view its document root in cPanel:

1. Log in to your Bluehost Portal.
2. Click Hosting in the left-hand menu.
3. In the hosting details page, click the cPanel button.

   
    

4. Your cPanel will open in a new tab.

   
    

5. In cPanel, scroll down to the Domains section and click on Domains.

   
    

6. In the domain list, the Document Root column will show the folder where your website files are stored.

   
    

Alternative Way to Find the Document Root

1. Log in to your Bluehost Portal.
2. In the left-hand menu, click Websites.
3. Click the Manage button located next to the website you want to manage.

   
    

4. In the top navigation menu, click Files & Access.

   
    

5. Look for the Document Root section, which shows the root directory path for your website.

   
    

   
    

Summary

Understanding how document root folders work helps you keep your websites well-organized, especially when managing multiple domains in Bluehost. Whether you're working with your primary domain, addon domains, or subdomains, knowing where each site’s files are located ensures smoother site management, easier troubleshooting, and a more structured hosting environment.