How to Set Up a cPanel VPS
Setting up a cPanel VPS gives you a powerful, user-friendly control panel to manage your websites, email, DNS, and more. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you configure your VPS with cPanel/WHM.
1. Prepare Your VPS
a. Use a Supported Operating System
- Recommended OS:
Ensure your VPS is running a supported OS such as CentOS 7/8, AlmaLinux 8, or CloudLinux. - Fresh Installation:
For best results, start with a minimal, clean installation.
b. Set a Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN)
- Example Command:
hostnamectl set-hostname server.yourdomain.com
- Note:
Replaceserver.yourdomain.com
with a valid hostname for your VPS.
c. Update Your System
- Update Packages:
yum update -y
d. Disable SELinux
- Edit SELinux Config:
Open/etc/selinux/config
and change:SELINUX=enforcing
to
SELINUX=disabled
- Reboot the Server:
reboot
2. Verify Prerequisites
- Clean Environment:
Ensure there are no conflicting control panels or services installed. - cPanel License:
Have a valid cPanel license ready. You can purchase one through cPanel or your hosting provider.
3. Install cPanel/WHM
a. Log in as Root
- SSH Access:
Connect to your VPS as the root user.
b. Download the Installer
- Download Command:
cd /home && curl -o latest -L https://securedownloads.cpanel.net/latest
c. Run the Installer
- Start Installation:
sh latest
- Duration:
The installation process may take 30–60 minutes depending on your server and connection speed.
4. Configure WHM
a. Access WHM
- URL Format:
Open your web browser and navigate to:https://your-server-ip:2087
Replace
your-server-ip
with your VPS’s IP address.
b. Log in to WHM
- Credentials:
Use the root username and password.
c. Complete the Initial Setup Wizard
- Steps Include:
- Accepting the End-User License Agreement (EULA)
- Entering your cPanel license details (if prompted)
- Configuring basic settings such as network information, nameservers, and contact details
d. Secure Your Installation
- Additional Security:
Use WHM’s security tools to configure firewalls, automatic updates, and other security measures.
Final Thoughts
By following these steps, you’ll have a fully functional cPanel VPS that simplifies web hosting management and provides a robust environment for your websites and applications. With your VPS now running cPanel/WHM, you can easily create and manage hosting accounts, configure email, and monitor server performance.
Ready to manage your hosting like a pro? Set up your cPanel VPS today and take full control of your online presence!