Change a root password through WHM

Updated: 28 September 2026 · Applies to: cPanel & WHM 138 (WHM, root access)

On a VPS or dedicated server with cPanel, you can change the root password from WHM.

Steps

1. Log in to WHM as root (https://your-server:2087).
2. Open Server Configuration › Change Root Password.
3. Enter a long, unique password twice, or use Password Generator.
4. Click Change Password.

The new password works straight away for WHM and SSH. Store it in a password manager.

Tip: Better still, log in to SSH with a key and turn off root password logins; see "Connecting to your VPS with SSH and improving security". If you are locked out, reset the root password from the VPS control panel or ask support.