How to Upload an HTML File to WordPress? Easy Methods & Troubleshooting Tips

Uploading an HTML file to WordPress is a common requirement for website owners and developers. Whether it’s for site verification or integrating custom pages, knowing how to properly upload HTML file to WordPress ensures seamless functionality.

While WordPress primarily operates with themes and plugins, you can also use static HTML files for extensive customization. Depending on your needs, you can upload files through the WordPress Media Library, using hosting cPanel, FTP clients, or specialized plugins.

This guide explores multiple methods used by WordPress development experts to upload HTML files on the website, along with troubleshooting tips for common issues.

Why Upload HTML File to WordPress?

Whether you’re verifying site ownership, adding a custom design, or integrating a standalone landing page, uploading an HTML file can be a quick and effective solution. And there are several reasons why you might need to upload an HTML file to your WordPress website:

• Site Verification: Google Search Console, Bing Webmaster Tools, and other services may require you to upload an HTML file for site verification.
• Custom Pages: You may have a standalone HTML page that you want to include in your WordPress site.
• Landing Pages: Custom HTML files can be used to create specific landing pages that are not part of your WordPress theme.
• Backup & Migration: Website migrations involve uploading static HTML pages temporarily.

No matter the reason, uploading an HTML file to WordPress gives you greater flexibility in managing your site. Whether it’s for verification, custom pages, or special integrations, knowing how to handle HTML files ensures that your site remains functional and well-optimized.

How to Upload HTML File to WordPress?

There are multiple ways to upload HTML file to WordPress, each suited to different levels of technical expertise. Whether you prefer using the built-in WordPress dashboard, accessing your hosting panel, or working with an FTP client, there’s a method that fits your workflow.

Choosing the right approach depends on factors like ease of use, file access, and customization needs.

Upload HTML File via WordPress Media Library

The easiest way to upload an HTML file in WordPress is through the Media Library, but this platform restricts certain file types, including .html files. You may need to modify settings or use a plugin.

How to Do It?

• Log in to the WordPress admin dashboard.
• Go to Media > Add New.
• Click on Select Files and choose your HTML file.
• Once uploaded, copy the file URL and use it in your content or embed it as needed.

This process is only for very basic, static HTML files and when other methods are unavailable. Primarily for hosting the file for download, not for rendering it as a web page.

Upload HTML File via File Manager (Using cPanel)

With the best WordPress hosting providers, you get a cPanel. You can use the hosting cPanel in WordPress to take care of a range of tasks. As such, you can directly upload an HTML file to the server using File Manager through this control panel.

How to Do It?

• Log in to your cPanel account.
• Go to File Manager and navigate to public_html (root folder).
• Click Upload and select the HTML file from your computer.
• Once uploaded, access the file in the browser using https://yourdomain.com/filename.html.

Go for this process when you need direct control over file placement and have cPanel access. Suitable for integrating custom HTML pages that require server-side execution.

Upload HTML File via FTP Client (FileZilla)

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) provides a reliable method for transferring files between your computer and your web server. Explore the best FTP clients, including FileZilla.

How to Do It?

• Install and open an FTP client.
• Connect to your website using FTP credentials (provided by your hosting provider).
• Navigate to your WordPress installation’s root directory (usually public_html).
• Upload the HTML file by dragging and dropping it into the directory.
• Access the file in your browser using https://yourdomain.com/filename.html.

This process is for when you prefer a dedicated FTP client or when cPanel access is limited. Essential for developers and those who need robust file transfer capabilities.

Upload an HTML File Via a WordPress Plugin

Several WordPress plugins simplify HTML file uploads and integration. These plugins often provide features for embedding HTML content, managing file access, and enhancing security.

How to Do It?

• Install and activate the File Manager plugin.
• Go to File Manager from the WordPress admin dashboard.
• Upload your HTML file to the desired directory (usually wp-content/uploads).
• Copy the file URL and use it wherever needed.

When you want a user-friendly interface and enhanced features for managing HTML content within WordPress, plugins might be more suitable. Many plugins offer security features that help to protect the website.

If you need help with HTML customizations throughout the website, get help from our professional WordPress development company.

How to Create a Custom Page Template for HTML Files in WordPress?

WordPress uses a template hierarchy to determine which template file to use for a given page. Understanding this hierarchy is crucial for advanced customization.

If you want to integrate an HTML file into your WordPress site, you can create a custom page template.

How to Do It?

• Log in to your hosting control panel or use FTP.
• Navigate to wp-content/themes/your-theme/.
• Create a new file and name it ‘custom-page.php’.
• Add the following code:

<?php

/* Template Name: Custom HTML Page */
get_header();
?>

<div class="custom-html-container">
    <?php include get_template_directory() . '/your-html-file.html'; ?>
</div>

<?php get_footer(); ?>

• Upload the HTML file to the same theme directory.
• Go to WordPress Admin > Pages > Add New.
• Select ‘Custom HTML Page’ as the template under ‘Page Attributes’.
• Publish the page and view it on the frontend.

Regardless of which method you choose, uploading an HTML file to WordPress is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps.

By selecting the approach that best aligns with your technical comfort level, you can efficiently manage HTML files while maintaining control over your website’s structure and content.

Potential Issues When Adding HTML Files in WordPress (& Solutions)

Even with the right approach, you may encounter issues when uploading an HTML file to WordPress. Errors like file upload restrictions, broken links, or pages not displaying correctly can be frustrating, but they often have simple solutions.

Knowing common problems and how to fix them will help to ensure that your HTML files function as expected without disrupting your site.

HTML File Not Found (404 Error)

After uploading an HTML file to your WordPress site, you might get a 404 error when trying to access it. This happens because WordPress doesn’t recognize the file as part of its content structure.

Solution

• Check the File Path: Ensure the file is uploaded to the correct directory. For example, if you uploaded it to the wp-content/uploads folder, the URL should look like yoursite.com/wp-content/uploads/yourfile.html.
• Use a Plugin: Install a WordPress plugin like Insert Pages or File Manager to manage and embed HTML files more effectively.
• Modify .htaccess: If you’re adding the file to the root directory, ensure your .htaccess file allows access to HTML files. Add the following rule, if necessary:

<Files *.html>
Allow from all
</Files>

WordPress Blocks HTML File Uploads

WordPress may block HTML file uploads by default for security reasons, as HTML files can potentially contain malicious code.

Solution

• Allow HTML Uploads: Add the following code to your theme’s functions.php file to allow HTML file uploads:

function allow_html_uploads($mimes) {
$mimes['html'] = 'text/html';
return $mimes;
}

add_filter('upload_mimes', 'allow_html_uploads');

• Use a Plugin: Use the WP Extra plugin to enable HTML file uploads without editing code.
• Upload via FTP: If WordPress still blocks the upload, use an FTP client (e.g., FileZilla) to upload the HTML file directly to your server.

HTML Page Doesn’t Match WordPress Design

When you add an HTML file to WordPress, it may not match your site’s theme or design, resulting in a disjointed user experience.

Solution

• Embed HTML in a Page: Use a plugin like “Embed HTML” or “Simple Custom CSS and JS” to embed your HTML code into a WordPress page or post. This ensures the content is displayed within your theme’s framework.
• Use an iFrame: Embed the HTML file using an iFrame within a WordPress page. For example:

<iframe src="https://yoursite.com/wp-content/uploads/yourfile.html" width="100%" height="500px"></iframe>

By identifying the root cause and applying the right fix, you can ensure that your HTML files are uploaded and displayed correctly. Knowing how to troubleshoot errors goes a long way in maintaining a smooth and functional WordPress experience.

FAQs for Upload an HTML File to WordPress

Let’s Summarize

Uploading an HTML file to WordPress can be useful for a variety of reasons, from verifying site ownership to integrating custom pages. With multiple methods available–whether through the WordPress Media Library, cPanel, FTP, or plugins–you have the flexibility to choose the approach that best suits your technical comfort level.

While the process is generally straightforward, occasional challenges may arise, but they can be resolved with the right troubleshooting steps.

With the right knowledge, you can seamlessly integrate static files while maintaining a dynamic and well-optimized website. Or you can connect with our WordPress professionals for the best results.