What is allow_url_fopen and what must it be set to?

PHP is a scripting language used by developers to build websites. ‘url_fopen’ refers to a PHP directive allowing files to be included from external sources.

When the directive ‘allow_url_fopen’ is enabled on a server-wide level, it creates a security risk for all domains hosted on that server. It is, for this reason, we have disabled the ‘allow_url_fopen’ directive on Monday, 23 November 2009 on our Web hosting servers.

Should you require the ‘allow_url_fopen’ directive to be enabled on your domain to ensure your website functions optimally, you will need to enable the directive on a per domain level. If your website does not require ‘allow_url_fopen’ you can simply check that the directive is set to ‘off’.

Simply follow these steps to enable ‘allow_url_fopen’ per domain:


  • Enable ‘allow_url_fopen’ via konsoleH

    1. 1
      Browse to konsoleH.
    2. 2
      Log in with your Client number and Management password.
    3. 3
      Select or search for the domain you would like to configure under the ‘Hosting Service’ tab.
    4. 4
      Select Manage Services > PHP Config.
    5. 5
      You will see ‘allow_url_fopen’ and the drop-down options ‘off’ or ‘on’.
    6. 6
      Click Save once you have made your selection.




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