WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems (CMS) available today, powering millions of websites across the globe. While many web hosts offer easy, one-click installations of WordPress, there are instances where you might need to install it manually. This could be due to specific customizations you require, or because your hosting provider does not offer automatic installation. Manually installing WordPress gives you a deeper understanding of its structure and can offer more control over the setup process. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of manually installing WordPress on your web host.
Step 1: Download and Prepare WordPress Files
To begin the installation process, visit the official WordPress website at wordpress.org and download the latest version of WordPress. The file will be in a compressed format (.zip), so after downloading, you need to extract it. Once extracted, you will see a folder named wordpress containing all necessary WordPress files. It’s important to review the contents to familiarize yourself with the different files and directories you will be working with.
Next, before proceeding with the upload to your web hosting account, you might want to rename the wordpress folder to something that suits the purpose of your site. This is useful if you are using a temporary directory or want a specific name for your project’s root directory. However, if you plan to install WordPress in the root directory of your domain, you don’t need to rename the folder.
Lastly, if you want to make any pre-configurations to WordPress, such as setting up database connection details beforehand or configuring wp-config.php with your security keys, do it at this stage. You can find the wp-config-sample.php file in the WordPress folder. Rename this file to wp-config.php and open it in a text editor to make the necessary changes. This step is technically optional but can simplify the installation process later on.
Step 2: Upload Files to Your Web Host
Once your WordPress files are prepared, the next step is to upload them to your web hosting server. This can be done using an FTP client such as FileZilla or through the file manager provided in your hosting control panel. Connect to your hosting account and navigate to the directory where you want to install WordPress. If it’s the main domain, you’ll likely be uploading to the public_html directory.
Using an FTP client, upload all files and folders inside your prepared WordPress directory to the chosen directory on your server. Depending on your internet connection and the number of files, this process can take a while. Ensure that all files are uploaded correctly and in the correct directories to avoid any issues during installation.
After the files are uploaded, double-check to ensure everything looks right. Verify that the structure of the directories on your web host matches the local structure you set up earlier. Correct file placement is vital for the next steps in the installation process, which will involve running the WordPress installation script through your web browser.
Installing WordPress manually might seem daunting at first, but by following the steps outlined above, you can successfully set up WordPress on your web host with full control over the installation environment. This method not only enhances your understanding of how WordPress works but also allows for customization that is not possible with one-click installations. Once you have completed these steps, you are ready to proceed with the final configuration and begin using your new WordPress website. Whether you are setting up a personal blog or a complex business website, manual installation offers a solid foundation for building your online presence.
