How to Install WordPress on Your Web Hosting Account (Manual Install Guide)

Installing WordPress manually on your web hosting account is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you set it up.

Step 1: Prepare Your Hosting Environment

1. Choose a Hosting Provider

Select a web hosting provider that supports PHP and MySQL, such as Bluehost, SiteGround, or DreamHost.

2. Create a Database

1. Log in to your Hosting Control Panel (cPanel or similar).
2. Navigate to MySQL Databases:
   • Create a new database.
   • Create a new user and assign a secure password.
   • Add the user to the database with All Privileges.

Step 2: Download WordPress

1. Go to the WordPress.org Website: Visit WordPress.org.
2. Download WordPress: Click on the “Get WordPress” button and download the latest version as a .zip file.

Step 3: Upload WordPress Files

1. Extract WordPress

• Unzip the downloaded WordPress file on your local computer.

2. Upload Files to Your Server

1. Access File Manager: Open your hosting control panel and go to the File Manager or use an FTP client like FileZilla.
2. Upload Files:
   • Navigate to the public_html directory (or the directory where you want to install WordPress).
   • Upload the extracted WordPress files here.

Step 4: Configure wp-config.php

1. Rename wp-config-sample.php: In your file manager, rename wp-config-sample.php to wp-config.php.
2. Edit wp-config.php:
   • Open the file in the editor.
   • Fill in your database details:
     php

     Copy

     define('DB_NAME', 'database_name_here');
     define('DB_USER', 'username_here');
     define('DB_PASSWORD', 'password_here');
     

   • Save the changes.

Step 5: Run the WordPress Installation

1. Access Your Website: Open a web browser and go to your domain (e.g., www.yourdomain.com).
2. Choose Language: Select your preferred language and click “Continue.”
3. Fill in Site Information:
   • Site Title: Enter your site’s name.
   • Username: Choose a username (avoid “admin” for security).
   • Password: Set a strong password.
   • Email Address: Enter your email for notifications.
   • Search Engine Visibility: Check this box if you want to discourage search engines from indexing your site (optional).
4. Click Install WordPress: Once completed, you’ll see a success message.

Step 6: Log in to Your WordPress Dashboard

1. Access the Admin Area: Go to www.yourdomain.com/wp-admin.
2. Log In: Use the username and password you created during installation.

Conclusion

You have successfully installed WordPress on your web hosting account! Now you can start customizing your site, adding themes, and creating content. Enjoy your new website!