Introduction to cPanel
A cPanel is one of the most widely used web hosting control panels that simplifies server management tasks. It provides a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to manage domains, email accounts, databases, file management, security settings, and website backups without needing advanced command-line knowledge.
If you’re setting up a Linux Server and need an easy way to manage it, installing cPanel & WHM (Web Host Manager) is a great choice.
System Requirements for Installing cPanel
Before proceeding with the cPanel installation, ensure that your Linux Server meets the following requirements:
✅ Operating System: AlmaLinux, Rocky Linux, CentOS, CloudLinux, or Ubuntu 20.04+
✅ RAM: Minimum 2GB (4GB recommended)
✅ Storage: Minimum 40GB disk space
✅ Processor: 64-bit CPU
✅ Static IP Address (cPanel does not work with dynamic IPs)
✅ Fresh Installation (cPanel requires a clean OS without existing software like Apache, MySQL, or PHP)
✅ Root Access to the Server
Step-by-Step Guide to Install cPanel on a Linux Server
Step 1: Update Your Server
Before installing cPanel & WHM, update your Linux Server to ensure all packages are up to date:
Step 2: Set the Hostname
A valid hostname is required before installing cPanel. Set your hostname using the following command:
Replace server.example.com with your actual domain name.
Step 3: Disable SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux)
cPanel does not work properly with SELinux enabled. Disable it using:
To make this change permanent, edit the SELinux configuration file:
Find the line:
Change it to:
Save the file and restart your server.
Step 4: Install cPanel & WHM
To install cPanel & WHM, run the following command:
This command:
- Downloads the latest version of cPanel & WHM
- Installs cPanel automatically
The installation may take 30-60 minutes depending on server speed.
Step 5: Log in to WHM (Web Host Manager)
Once cPanel installation is complete, access WHM (Web Host Manager) using your web browser.
Open:
Example:
Use root as the username and enter your server root password to log in.
Step 6: Activate cPanel License
cPanel & WHM require a valid cPanel license. If you don’t have one, you can activate a free trial by running:
To purchase a license, visit cPanel’s official website.
Step 7: Configure Basic WHM Settings
Once logged into WHM, complete the initial setup:
✅ Set Up Nameservers (e.g., ns1.yourdomain.com & ns2.yourdomain.com)
✅ Configure Server Networking (IP addresses & hostname)
✅ Enable AutoSSL for free SSL certificates
✅ Create cPanel Accounts for website hosting
Post-Installation Security & Optimization
After installing cPanel on a Linux Server, follow these best practices for security and performance optimization:
🔒 Enable CSF Firewall to block unauthorized access:
🔒 Configure ModSecurity to protect against web attacks
🔒 Enable cPanel Backups to prevent data loss
🔒 Use Let’s Encrypt SSL for secure HTTPS
Common cPanel Installation Issues & Fixes
❌ cPanel Installation Stuck
Fix: Check logs using:
❌ Can’t Access WHM Panel
Fix: Ensure ports 2087 and 2083 are open in the firewall:
❌ Invalid License Error
Fix: Verify cPanel license status:
Why Use cPanel on a Linux Server?
Using cPanel Hosting on a Linux Server provides:
✅ Easy Server Management – No need for complex CLI commands
✅ Automated Website Backups – Prevents data loss
✅ One-Click Software Installations – Softaculous for WordPress, Joomla, etc.
✅ Integrated Security Features – DDoS protection, SSL, and ModSecurity
✅ User-Friendly GUI – Makes web hosting simple for beginners
Whether you are managing a VPS, Dedicated Server, or Cloud Hosting, cPanel Hosting is a powerful solution for website and server administration.
Installing cPanel on a Linux Server is an essential step for website administrators who want an efficient, secure, and user-friendly hosting environment. With cPanel & WHM, you can manage your domains, emails, databases, and security settings effortlessly.
Looking for reliable cPanel Hosting? Choose a provider that offers pre-installed cPanel, DDoS protection, and 24/7 technical support to get the best hosting experience.