A web hosting control panel is a set of software instruments which you can access via a browser to manage your online content. Since you'll get a graphic point-and-click interface, you can use these tools to execute various tasks easier than if you have to type complex commands in a command line. All control panels allow you to do some basic things such as managing your files, emails and databases or viewing stats and logs, but some of them are simpler and easier to use than others and contain more attributes that will save you time and efforts. That's why, the control panel that you'll receive with your new web hosting account can really make a difference, therefore you should check it and see whether it'll suit your needs before you sign up for the service.