A quick guide on how to enable PHP Fileinfo extension in cPanel using PHP selector or php.ini with clear steps and code to get it done fast. Our cPanel Support Team is always here to help you.

How to Enable PHP Fileinfo Extension in cPanel

The PHP Fileinfo extension is a powerful tool that allows scripts to detect file types, MIME types, encoding, and other useful metadata. It plays a key role in handling file uploads, file validation, and file processing in PHP projects. Many users often need to enable PHP Fileinfo extension in cPanel to make sure their applications run smoothly. The process is straightforward, and you can do it in two simple ways, through the PHP selector or by editing the php.ini file.

Below, you will find both methods explained clearly with every action laid out so you can follow without confusion.

Method 1: Enable Fileinfo Using PHP Selector

The PHP selector option in cPanel makes it very easy to activate extensions with just a few clicks. Here’s how to do it:

• First, login to your cPanel account.
• Next, under the Software section, click on Select PHP Version. You can also search “php version” in the search bar if you don’t see it right away.
• After choosing your PHP version, you will notice a list of available extensions. Scroll down until you find fileinfo. By default, this is not checked. Simply check the box for fileinfo.
• Finally, click on Save.

With this, the selected extension is now enabled in your PHP configuration. This method is fast, reliable, and requires no coding knowledge.

Method 2: Enable Fileinfo Using php.ini

Sometimes you may prefer to enable PHP Fileinfo extension in cPanel manually by editing the php.ini file. This method gives you more control. Follow these directions carefully:

• Start by logging in to your cPanel account.
• Then, go to the File Manager located under the Files section.
• Inside File Manager, open the public_html folder from the folder list.
• Now, locate the php.ini file. If it’s not present, create a new file named php.ini.
• Once you have the file, open it using the Edit option. Then, include the following code inside and save:

extension = fileinfo.so

• After saving the file, the Fileinfo extension is enabled. You can verify its status by running a PHP info page or checking through your application.

Why Enabling PHP Fileinfo Matters

Enabling PHP Fileinfo extension in cPanel ensures that your PHP applications can properly identify file types before processing them. This adds an important layer of security when handling user uploads and prevents common errors caused by unidentified files.

Developers working with images, audio files, PDFs, and other document formats benefit directly from this extension. Without it, many file validation tasks would either fail or rely on weaker methods.

[If needed, Our team is available 24/7 for additional assistance.]

Conclusion

You now know two reliable ways to enable PHP Fileinfo extension in cPanel: using the PHP selector for a quick setup or editing php.ini for more manual control. Both approaches are effective, and once enabled, your applications will have stronger file handling capabilities.

By taking just a few minutes to activate this extension, you make your PHP environment more secure and efficient. Next time your project requires accurate file type detection, you’ll be ready.