.htaccess Generator - Apache Config Tool Free
Build Apache .htaccess rules visually. Select options, configure settings, and get ready-to-use code with syntax highlighting.
What Is an .htaccess File?
An .htaccess (hypertext access) file is a configuration file used by Apache web servers to control directory-level settings. It allows you to set up URL redirects, access control, caching rules, compression, custom error pages, and security headers without modifying the main server configuration. The file is placed in your website's root directory and applies to all files in that directory and subdirectories.
How to Use This .htaccess Generator
- Select Options — Check the boxes for the rules you need (HTTPS, caching, Gzip, etc.)
- Configure Details — Fill in domains, paths, IP addresses, and other settings as needed
- Review Code — The generated .htaccess code updates in real-time with syntax highlighting
- Copy or Download — Click Copy Code or Download .htaccess to get your file
- Upload — Place the .htaccess file in your website's root directory via FTP/SFTP
Why Use This .htaccess Generator?
- Visual Interface — No need to memorize Apache directives. Toggle options and fill in fields
- 14+ Rule Types — HTTPS, WWW redirects, error pages, caching, Gzip, CORS, IP control, hotlink protection, and more
- Real-Time Preview — See the generated code update instantly as you change settings
- Syntax Highlighting — Color-coded output makes it easy to read and verify rules
- Copy & Download — One-click copy to clipboard or download as a ready-to-use .htaccess file
- Privacy First — Everything runs in your browser. No server configuration data is ever sent anywhere
FreeToolbox vs Other .htaccess Generators
| Feature | FreeToolbox | htaccessredirect.net | htaccess-generator.org |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rule Types | 14+ | 5-6 | 8-10 |
| Real-time Preview | Yes | No (button) | No (button) |
| Syntax Highlighting | Yes | No | No |
| Download File | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IP Rules | Yes (multiple) | Limited | Yes |
| Hotlink Protection | Yes | No | Yes |
| Ads | Minimal | Heavy | Heavy |
FAQ
Where do I put the .htaccess file?
Upload the .htaccess file to your website's root directory (usually public_html or www) via FTP or SFTP. The rules will apply to all files in that directory and its subdirectories.
Will this work on Nginx servers?
No. The .htaccess file is specific to Apache web servers. Nginx uses a different configuration format (nginx.conf). Most shared hosting providers use Apache, but VPS/cloud servers often use Nginx.
Can .htaccess slow down my site?
Apache reads .htaccess files on every request, so complex rules can add slight overhead. For high-traffic sites, it's better to move rules into the main Apache config (httpd.conf). For most sites, the impact is negligible.
What does the 301 vs 302 redirect mean?
A 301 redirect is permanent — search engines will update their index. A 302 redirect is temporary — search engines keep the original URL. Use 301 for permanent URL changes and 302 for temporary redirects.
How do I test if my .htaccess is working?
After uploading, test by visiting the affected URLs. For redirects, check if the browser redirects correctly. For security rules, try accessing blocked files. Use browser developer tools (Network tab) to verify headers and status codes.
What if my .htaccess causes a 500 error?
A syntax error in .htaccess will cause a 500 Internal Server Error. Connect via FTP, rename or delete the .htaccess file to restore access, then fix the syntax issue. Always keep a backup before making changes.