Modern websites often need to support a range of .well-known files for security verification, app integrations, authentication protocols, and other standardized services. Managing these files manually can be tedious, especially for those unfamiliar with server directories and file permissions. The Well-Known File Manager plugin offers a practical, streamlined solution by providing a simple, WordPress-friendly way to create, manage, and edit these essential files directly from your admin dashboard.
What Is Well-Known File Manager?
Well-Known File Manager is a WordPress plugin designed to help site owners manage a variety of .well-known files efficiently. These files are essential for tasks such as domain ownership verification, secure application associations, and protocol handling. The plugin uses a physical file creation approach, ensuring maximum compatibility by creating actual files in your server’s .well-known directory rather than relying on WordPress routing or custom .htaccess rules.
Key Features of Well-Known File Manager
- Easy File Management: Enable or disable .well-known files with simple toggle switches inside your WordPress admin area.
- Physical File Creation: Creates actual files in the
.well-knowndirectory, ensuring direct access by browsers, search engines, and third-party apps. - Built-In Content Editor: Edit file contents easily with a built-in editor that features syntax highlighting and content validation to meet required standards.
- Default Templates: Use pre-configured templates for common files like
security.txt,assetlinks.json, andapple-app-site-association. - Automatic Cleanup: When a file is disabled, it’s automatically removed from the server, keeping your hosting environment clean and organized.
Supported .well-known Files
This plugin covers a broad range of file types for different purposes:
- Security:
security.txt,security-txt - App Associations:
assetlinks.json,apple-app-site-association - Protocol Handlers:
change-password,gpc,hoba - Discovery & Authentication:
host-meta,host-meta.json,nodeinfo,openid-configuration,oauth-authorization-server - And many more…
How Well-Known File Manager Works
The plugin operates without requiring any server configuration adjustments:
- When enabled, it creates actual files within your
.well-knowndirectory. - When disabled, those files are completely removed from the server.
- No rewrite rules or .htaccess modifications are needed, ensuring maximum compatibility across any hosting setup.
Benefits of Using Well-Known File Manager
- Universal Hosting Compatibility: Works seamlessly with any hosting provider without special permissions or configurations.
- Direct Web Server Performance: Files are served directly by your server for faster access and better performance.
- Simplified Setup: Avoid manual file creation, permission settings, and server rule adjustments.
- Automatic File Management: Add or remove files instantly from your WordPress dashboard as needed.
- Cleaner Server Environment: Disabled files are removed entirely, reducing clutter and improving security.
If your website requires support for .well-known files — whether for app associations, domain verification, or authentication protocols — Well-Known File Manager is a smart, reliable solution. Its straightforward interface, automatic file management, and universal compatibility make it an essential plugin for WordPress site owners looking to stay compliant with modern web standards while simplifying their workflow.