With an .htaccess file, you can define how the server which deals with the requests to your websites have to act in various cases. This is a text file with directives that are executed when an individual tries to open your Internet site and what happens next will depend on the content of the file. As an example, you could block a particular IP address from accessing the site, so the server will decline the visitor’s request, or you can redirect your domain name to some other URL, so the server may direct the visitor to the new web address. You can also use custom error pages or shield any part of your site with a password, if you place an .htaccess file inside the correct folder. Many popular script-driven apps, such as WordPress, Joomla™ and Drupal™, use an .htaccess file to work correctly.