Change DocumentRoot of the Apache Web Server

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Change DocumentRoot of the Apache Web Server

In this hands-on lab, your task is to change the DocumentRoot of the Apache web server. DocumentRoot changes also require other corresponding changes. First, we will create a new directory in a location with the proper permissions. The new directory and any nested directories will require read permissions. We will add the to the Apache configuration file. Next, copy the contents from the current directory to the new directory. SELinux will also need to be configured, so the new DocumentRoot can be accessible and able to serve the website to the client. We will verify the new changes. Lastly, we will restore the previous DocumentRoot along with the previous SELinux configuration to verify if the old DocumentRoot is accessible through the browser.

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Lab Info

Level

Intermediate

Last updated

Sep 18, 2025

Duration

45m

Challenge

Create a New Directory for the DocumentRoot
Note: You must use a local terminal app program with ssh support for this lab (examples: The mac/linux terminal program, or the new Windows Terminal with WSL2). The Instant Terminal can not be used for this specific lab.
1. Create a new directory.
2. Edit the Apache configuration file.
Challenge

Copy the Files
1. Copy the files from the old directory to the new directory.
Challenge

Configure Selinux and Restart Httpd
1. Edit SELinux to allow the new directory, file and image.
2. Restart Apache service.
3. Verify changes by opening a new private/incognito browser using the public IP address of the cloud server.
Challenge

Restore Original DocumentRoot and Verify Changes
1. Edit Apache configuration file and revert to the original DocumentRoot.
2. Verify changes by opening a new private/incognito browser using the public IP address of the cloud server.

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