# Upload HTML files and publish a static site

> Upload HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, PDFs, and other static assets, then publish them as a versioned StaticX site.

Canonical: https://staticx.site/html-file-upload

## Direct file management

Create files in the dashboard, upload individual assets, or upload a ZIP archive when a project is ready to publish.

## Required pages are clear

StaticX expects an index.html for the homepage and encourages a 404.html so missing pages render cleanly.

## Publish when ready

Editing updates the working files. Publishing creates the next immutable version for rollback, analytics, and production history.

## Upload HTML files without losing production history

Use direct file upload for simple websites, client edits, and AI-generated pages that do not need a build step.

1. **Prepare the file tree** — Keep index.html at the root and include CSS, JavaScript, images, PDFs, and 404.html beside the paths that reference them.
2. **Upload or edit files** — Use the dashboard file manager for small changes or upload a ZIP when the whole tree is ready.
3. **Publish a deployment** — Saving edits changes the working files. Publishing creates the immutable deployment used for rollback and analytics.

## HTML upload should be simple, but not disposable.

A one-page HTML site can still be production work. StaticX treats uploaded files like a real release, not a temporary pastebin.

That means you can edit a typo in the browser, publish a clean version when ready, connect a domain, collect form submissions, and roll back if the change breaks the page.

## Useful safeguards for HTML sites

- **404 page guidance** — A custom 404.html keeps broken links professional and helps agents build complete static sites.
- **File manager edits** — Small changes can be made in the dashboard without rebuilding a ZIP from scratch.
- **Versioned publishing** — Publish only when the working files are ready to become production history.

## FAQ

### Can I upload only one HTML file?

Yes, but production sites should include index.html and preferably 404.html plus any referenced assets.

### What happens when I edit a file?

The edit updates the working copy. Create a new deployment version when you want rollback, analytics, and history to track the change.

### Can HTML files include forms?

Yes. Add StaticX form rules to normal HTML forms so submissions appear in the lead inbox.

[View on staticx.site](https://staticx.site/html-file-upload)