With an .htaccess file, you shall define how the web server that handles the requests to your web sites have to act in different occasions. This is a text file with directives that are performed when someone tries to open your Internet site and what happens next depends on the content of the file. For instance, you could block a particular IP address from opening the site, and the server will decline your visitor’s request, or you can redirect your domain to an alternative URL, so the server will direct the visitor to the new web address. You can also use custom-made error pages or protect 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, Drupal™ and Joomla™, use an .htaccess file to work efficiently.