Difference Between cPanel and WHM Explained

Author:Lars Nyström
Updated:Jun 4, 2025

Understanding WHM and cPanel Management as a Reseller

  1. User Levels in WHM:

    • Root User: Has full access to all WHM functions and can manage everything, including reseller accounts.
    • Reseller Panel (WHM): Subordinate users with limited permissions set by the server admin, focusing on managing their resold accounts.
    • Individual cPanel Users: Accessible via main domains, requiring direct login for certain features like GoogleApps.
  2. Password Synchronization:

    • WHM and main cPanel passwords are synchronized. Changing one affects the other, so it's crucial to remember this for security purposes.
  3. Managing Resold Accounts:

    • Resellers can manage their resold accounts through the Reseller Panel in WHM.
    • This interface allows creating, editing, and deleting accounts, providing a centralized way to handle client accounts.
  4. Creating Accounts:

    • Accounts are typically created via WHM's Reseller Panel by specifying domain names and settings.
    • Permissions can be set to limit access, ensuring clients have only what they need.
  5. Accessing Features like GoogleApps:

    • Some features require individual cPanel logins. Resellers should guide clients to use their main domain accounts for such features.
  6. Security Best Practices:

    • Regularly monitor and manage accounts to maintain security.
    • Use WHM's tools to enforce strong passwords and secure configurations.
  7. Password Reset:

    • Password resets can often be handled by the user via email, but resellers may need alternative methods if necessary.

Conclusion: