Softaculous, an intuitive auto-installer integrated within your cPanel, empowers users to effortlessly deploy a wide array of popular software applications. This includes robust content management systems like WordPress and Joomla, as well as e-commerce platforms, forums, wikis, and more. Utilizing Softaculous not only simplifies the deployment process but also significantly reduces the time and effort typically associated with manual software installations, thanks to its robust automation capabilities.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the straightforward process of installing various software applications using Softaculous. While Softaculous boasts a library of over 200 diverse programs, the fundamental installation steps remain remarkably consistent across all applications, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for every user.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Applications with Softaculous
Step 1: Access Your cPanel Account
The initial step involves securely logging into your cPanel account. This control panel serves as the central hub for managing all aspects of your website and hosting environment, providing access to essential tools and functionalities.
Step 2: Navigate to Softaculous Apps Installer
Once you have successfully logged into cPanel, locate and click on the "Softaculous Apps Installer" link. This essential tool is typically found within the "Software" or "Software/Services" section of your cPanel interface. Clicking this link will redirect you to the Softaculous dashboard, where you can browse and manage available applications.
Step 3: Select Your Desired Software Application
Upon entering the Softaculous interface, you will find several convenient methods to locate the specific software you wish to install:
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Browsing Categories: On the left-hand menu, you'll see various categories such as "Blogs," "eCommerce," "Portals/CMS," "Forums," and many others. Clicking on any of these categories will display a filtered list of applications relevant to that specific type. For instance, selecting "Blogs" will present you with popular blogging platforms like WordPress, b2evolution, and others.
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Top Scripts: For commonly used and highly popular applications, refer to the "Top Scripts" section. This area often highlights leading platforms such as WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, and PrestaShop, among others, due to their widespread adoption and utility.
Step 4: Initiate the Installation Process
Once you have identified the software application you intend to install, proceed by clicking the "Install" button. This button is strategically positioned just above the detailed description and overview of the chosen application.
Important Consideration: Addressing Potential File Conflicts
In some instances, you might encounter an error message indicating "conflicting files" (such asrobots.txt,.htaccess, or other system-level files). Should this occur, it is often necessary to resolve these conflicts. This typically involves accessing your hosting account's File Manager and safely removing these existing files from your primary website directory (commonlypublic_html) before attempting the Softaculous installation again. This crucial step helps ensure a clean and unhindered installation environment for your new software.
Step 5: Configure Comprehensive Installation Details
A detailed installation form will subsequently appear, prompting you to input various configuration specifics for your new application. Carefully complete all the required fields to tailor the installation to your preferences, and then finalize this step by clicking the "Install" button located at the bottom of the page.
For convenience and future reference, you have the option to receive a copy of these installation details via email. Simply enter your preferred email address in the designated field.
While the specific fields may vary slightly depending on the application being installed, the information requested generally falls into the following crucial categories:
Software Setup
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Choose Protocol | Select the desired protocol for your website. The most common and recommended options are https:// for secure connections or https://www if you prefer the 'www' prefix with security. |
| Choose Domain | If your cPanel account manages multiple domain names, you will need to select the specific domain where you intend to install this new application. |
| In Directory | To install the application into a subfolder (e.g., if you want users to visit https://yourdomain.com/blog instead of simply https://yourdomain.com to access your site), specify the desired directory name here. If this field is left blank, the software will be installed directly into your root domain. |
| Database Name | Unless you possess advanced database management requirements or specific reasons to alter it, the default database name suggested by Softaculous is usually appropriate and can be left as is. |
Database Settings
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Table Prefix | Similar to the database name, the default table prefix provided is generally suitable. Modifying it is typically only required for specific security practices or database organization within a shared database environment. |
Site Settings
This section allows you to define fundamental details about your new website, such as its official name and a brief descriptive tagline. It's important to note that these values are almost always easily modifiable later through the administrative panel of your newly installed application, offering flexibility for future branding or content adjustments.
Admin Account
This is a critical section where you will establish the administrator username and password for logging into your newly installed application's backend. It is paramount to select a strong, unique username (avoiding generic options like "Admin") and a highly complex, robust password. Prioritizing strong credentials here is essential for safeguarding the security and integrity of your website against unauthorized access.
Choose Language
If your website will primarily operate in a language other than English, select the appropriate language from the provided dropdown menu. This ensures that the application's default interface and certain content elements are displayed in your chosen language.
Step 6: Finalize Installation and Access Your New Site
Once you click the "Install" button, a progress bar will appear, visually indicating the status and remaining time for the installation process. Upon successful completion, you will receive a congratulatory message, typically stating, "Congratulations, the software was installed successfully." This confirmation will usually be accompanied by two direct links: one leading to your newly launched website and another providing quick access to its administrative login page, enabling you to immediately begin managing and populating your content.
