Resolving the "Cannot Run FrontPage Server Extensions" Error in cPanel

If you're encountering the error message "Cannot run the FrontPage Server Extensions on this page" when submitting a feedback form on your website, it likely stems from how the form was created and saved within Microsoft FrontPage.

Understanding the Issue:

This error typically occurs when a feedback form, created using FrontPage 2002 or 2003, is saved in a subfolder rather than the root directory of your website. FrontPage's Save Results component attempts to store form submissions in a '_private' directory relative to the form's location. If this '_private' directory doesn't exist in the subfolder, the error is triggered.

Steps to Resolve:

1. Repropagate Permissions: Ensure that all necessary permissions are correctly set for the FrontPage user in IIS.
2. Create the Feedback.txt File:
   • Open your website in FrontPage.
   • Navigate to the '_private' folder in the root directory.
   • If 'Feedback.txt' doesn't exist, create a new blank page and save it as 'Feedback.txt' in the '_private' folder.
3. Update Form Properties:
   • Open the page containing the feedback form.
   • Right-click on the form and select 'Form Properties'.
   • Click 'Browse' and navigate to the 'Feedback.txt' file in the root '_private' folder.
   • Select the file and confirm the changes.
4. Save and Test:
   • Save the changes to your webpage.
   • Test the form to ensure submissions are processed without errors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Why does this error occur only when the form is in a subfolder?

A1: FrontPage's Save Results component saves submissions relative to the form's location. If the form is in a subfolder without a corresponding '_private' directory, the component cannot find the specified path, leading to the error.

Q2: Is FrontPage still supported in cPanel?

A2: No, Microsoft discontinued support for FrontPage Server Extensions in 2006. Subsequently, cPanel removed support for these extensions in version 11.46. It's recommended to transition to modern web development tools.

Q3: What alternatives can I use instead of FrontPage for forms?

A3: Consider using contemporary form builders or content management systems like WordPress with plugins such as Contact Form 7 or WPForms. These tools offer enhanced functionality and security.