WHMCS, the web hosting management system, is a popular tool for hosting management and invoicing. While its installation might seem daunting at first glance, it's actually a straightforward process. In this article, we'll walk through step by step how to install WHMCS on your web hosting.
Prerequisites
Before starting the installation, make sure your hosting meets the following requirements:
- PHP version 7.2 or higher
- MySQL database version 5.5 or higher
- IonCube Loaders installed on the server
You'll also need access to your web hosting account, an FTP client for uploading files, and a WHMCS license.
Step 1: Download WHMCS
The first step is to download the latest version of WHMCS from the WHMCS.com website. Upon purchasing a license, you'll have access to download the installation package.
Step 2: Upload Files to the Server
After downloading the WHMCS archive, extract it and use an FTP client to upload the files to your web hosting. Ideally, upload them to the root directory of your domain name or to a subdirectory if you want to run WHMCS from a specific URL.
Step 3: Create a Database
Log in to your web hosting control panel (e.g., cPanel) and create a new MySQL database. Make a note of the database name, username, and password - you'll need these details during the installation.
Step 4: Installation
After uploading the files to the server and creating the database, open the URL in your browser where you uploaded WHMCS. The installation wizard will start. Follow the on-screen instructions, where you'll be prompted to enter database information and your license key.
Step 5: Configure Cron Job
WHMCS requires a cron job to be set up for automatic execution of periodic tasks. In your web hosting control panel, set up a cron job to run the 'cron.php' file in your WHMCS installation every 5 minutes.
Step 6: Secure the Installation
After completing the installation, secure your WHMCS system. This includes removing the installation directory, setting the correct permissions for files and directories, and activating an SSL certificate to secure communication.
Installing WHMCS on web hosting is a process that requires careful planning and following steps. Once installed and configured, you'll have a powerful tool for hosting management and invoicing at your disposal. Remember to regularly update WHMCS and its addons to ensure the security and stability of your system.
