Managing Multiple Websites on a Single Shared Hosting Account
1. Check Your Host’s Policy
First things first: make sure your hosting plan allows multiple websites. Look for terms like “Add-on Domains” or “Multiple Websites” in your plan’s description. Some basic plans only allow one site.
2. Add Domains via Control Panel
Most hosts use cPanel or a similar dashboard. Here’s how it usually goes:
- Find “Addon Domains” or “Domains”: This is where you can link additional domains to your account.
- Add Your Domain: Enter the new domain name, set its document root (the folder where its files will go), and follow the prompts.
- Update DNS: Point your new domain’s DNS to your hosting provider’s nameservers.
3. Organize Your Files
Each website will have its own directory (often inside /public_html/ or /home/username/).
For example:
/public_html/ (main site)
/public_html/site2.com/ (second site)
/public_html/site3.com/ (third site)
Keep each site’s files in its own folder to avoid confusion or accidental overwrites.
4. Install Applications (WordPress, Joomla, etc.)
Use your host’s “Softaculous” or “One-Click Installer” to set up WordPress or other CMS for each domain. Just be sure to select the correct directory during installation.
5. Manage Email Accounts
Each domain can have its own email addresses (e.g., hello@site2.com). Set these up in the “Email Accounts” section of your control panel.
6. SSL Certificates
Many hosts give you free SSL via Let’s Encrypt. Be sure to enable SSL for every domain—there’s usually a simple toggle or “Install SSL” option.
7. Monitor Resource Usage
Multiple sites mean more traffic and resource use. Keep an eye on your CPU, RAM, and bandwidth in cPanel. If you notice slowdowns or warnings, consider upgrading your plan.
8. Back Up Regularly
Backing up is even more important with several sites. Use your host’s backup tools, or set up a backup plugin for each CMS. Store copies offsite for safety.
9. Keep Everything Updated
Update CMS, plugins, and themes for all sites. Outdated software is a security risk, and with multiple sites, one vulnerable site can put the others at risk.
10. Set Up Security
Install security plugins, enable firewalls, and use strong, unique passwords for each website’s admin area.
Quick Tips
- Use subdomains for testing (e.g., staging.site2.com).
- Label folders clearly to avoid mistakes.
- Automate updates and backups where possible.
Bottom line:
With a bit of organization and routine maintenance, managing multiple sites on a shared account is totally doable. Just remember that your resources are shared—if your sites grow, you might eventually need to upgrade to VPS or cloud hosting.
