With an .htaccess file, you'll determine how the web server which deals with the requests to your Internet sites have to act a number of situations. This is a text file with directives that are executed when an individual tries to open your site and what happens next will depend on the content of the file. As an illustration, you can block a specific IP address from accessing the website, and the server will decline your visitor’s request, or you can forward your domain name to some other URL, so the server may direct the visitor to the new web address. You may also use custom error pages or protect any part of your Internet site with a password, if you place an .htaccess file in the correct folder. Many widespread script-driven apps, like WordPress, Drupal™ and Joomla™, use an .htaccess file to function correctly.