How to install an app with Softaculous

Before installing an application

Make sure:

• The domain or subdomain exists on the hosting account.
• You know which folder should contain the application.
• The selected PHP version supports the application.
• The destination does not contain a website you still need.
• The domain points to the Webway server if you want to test it publicly.

Softaculous is available on DirectAdmin and on most cPanel servers. If you can't find it, open a support ticket.

Open Softaculous

• cPanel: find the Software section and open Softaculous Apps Installer.
• DirectAdmin: open Extra Features → Softaculous Auto Installer.

Search for the application. Available applications include Joomla, Drupal, PrestaShop, OpenCart, forums, wikis and project-management tools. The list changes as applications are added or removed.

Start the installation

1. Select the application.
2. Review its requirements and version.
3. Select Install Now.
4. Choose the protocol (https:// once SSL is active).
5. Choose the destination domain.
6. Enter an installation directory if required.
7. Enter the site name and description.
8. Create the administrator account.
9. Review the database and advanced settings.
10. Start the installation.

Choose the correct directory

Leave the directory field empty to install at the root, for example https://example.co.za/.

Enter a folder such as shop to install at https://example.co.za/shop/.

Do not enter public_html in the directory field. Softaculous already knows the domain's document root.

Create a secure administrator account

Use a username other than admin, a unique generated password, and an email address you monitor. Store the credentials in a password manager.

Use HTTPS

Free Let's Encrypt SSL is issued automatically after the domain points to the Webway server. Where possible, wait for SSL and choose https:// as the protocol. See Why does my website say "Not secure"?

Database creation

Softaculous creates the database and database user automatically. For manual database work, see How to create a MySQL database and use phpMyAdmin.

Updates, backups and staging

Softaculous may offer automatic updates, backups, cloning and staging. These features vary by application.

Keep an independent off-site backup of important websites.

After installation

1. Open the public website.
2. Sign in to its administration area.
3. Apply available security updates.
4. Remove unused themes, extensions and sample content.
5. Configure backups.
6. Test forms and outgoing email.
7. Check the application's system-status page.