How to Configure cPanel on a New Server

Once cPanel/WHM is installed on your server, proper configuration is key to ensuring your hosting environment runs smoothly and securely. Follow these steps to configure cPanel on your new server:

1. Access WHM

• Log in to WHM:
  Open your web browser and navigate to:

  https://your-server-ip:2087
  

  Replace your-server-ip with your server’s actual IP address. Log in using your root credentials.

2. Complete the Initial Setup Wizard

• Launch the Setup Wizard:
  When you first log in, WHM will prompt you to run the Initial Setup Wizard. This wizard helps configure basic settings.
• Accept the EULA:
  Review and accept the End-User License Agreement.
• Enter Contact Information:
  Provide a valid email address for administrative and security notifications.
• Configure Nameservers:
  Set up your primary and secondary nameservers. You can use your own domain names (e.g., ns1.yourdomain.com and ns2.yourdomain.com) or the default options provided by your provider.
• Select the IP Address:
  If your server has multiple IP addresses, choose the one you want to use for your hosting accounts.
• Finalize and Save:
  Complete the wizard to apply these settings.

3. Configure Basic Server Settings

• Server Time and Locale:
  In WHM, navigate to Server Configuration > Tweak Settings to set the correct time zone and locale settings for your server.
• Hostname:
  Verify that your server hostname is set correctly. You can check or change it under Networking Setup > Change Hostname.
• Mail Settings:
  Configure your mail server options under Service Configuration > Exim Configuration Manager to optimize mail delivery and spam control.

4. Set Up Security Measures

• Configure the Firewall:
  Use WHM’s built-in tools or install a firewall like CSF (ConfigServer Security & Firewall) to secure your server.
  • Go to Plugins > ConfigServer Security & Firewall to configure rules and monitor traffic.
• SSH Hardening:
  Ensure your SSH settings are secure by disabling root login and using key-based authentication. This can be done via your server’s SSH configuration outside of WHM.
• Security Advisor:
  Run the Security Advisor tool in WHM to receive recommendations on improving server security.

5. Optimize Performance and Resource Allocation

• Service Manager:
  Under Service Configuration > Service Manager, enable or disable services based on your server’s needs to optimize resource usage.
• Apache & PHP Settings:
  Configure Apache settings (e.g., worker processes, timeout settings) and PHP versions/modules via Software > MultiPHP Manager and MultiPHP INI Editor to ensure compatibility with your websites.

6. Create Hosting Packages and Accounts

• Set Up Packages:
  Go to Packages > Add a Package to define hosting plans with specific resource limits (disk space, bandwidth, email accounts, etc.). This helps streamline account creation.
• Create cPanel Accounts:
  Under Account Functions > Create a New Account, set up individual hosting accounts for your clients or websites. Ensure that domain names, usernames, and passwords are correctly configured.

7. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring

• Update Software:
  Regularly update cPanel/WHM and server software to the latest versions via cPanel Updates in WHM.
• Monitor Logs and Performance:
  Use WHM’s monitoring tools under Server Status to keep an eye on server performance, resource usage, and any potential issues.

Final Thoughts

Properly configuring cPanel on a new server sets the foundation for a secure, efficient, and manageable hosting environment. By completing the initial setup, fine-tuning basic settings, implementing robust security measures, and optimizing performance, you’re well on your way to providing a reliable hosting solution.

Ready to get started? Log in to WHM and follow these steps to fully configure your new cPanel server for success!

Related posts:

How to Set Up a cPanel Dedicated Server: Complete Guide How to set up a dedicated server with cPanel How to Set Up a cPanel VPS (Step-by-Step Guide 2025) What is Cpanel Dedicated Server Hosting?