PrestaShop is a popular and powerful open-source e-commerce platform that enables users to quickly and efficiently create and manage online stores. With a wide range of features, modules, and templates, PrestaShop can provide businesses with everything they need for successful online sales. In this article, we will discuss step-by-step how to install PrestaShop.

Prerequisites Before initiating the PrestaShop installation, it's important to ensure that your hosting account meets the following requirements:

• PHP 7.1 or newer
• MySQL 5.6 or higher / MariaDB 10.0 or higher
• Apache web server 2.2 or newer / Nginx web server
• At least 128MB PHP memory, though 256MB or more is recommended

Step 1: Downloading PrestaShop The first step is to download the latest version of PrestaShop from the official website PrestaShop.com. Choose "Download" and save the file to your computer.

Step 2: Uploading Files to the Server Use an FTP client (such as FileZilla) to upload the downloaded PrestaShop files to your web hosting. The files should be placed in the root directory of your domain if you want the store to be accessible directly through the main URL, or in a subdirectory if you want to install the store into a specific section of your website.

Step 3: Creating a Database Log in to your hosting control panel (e.g., cPanel) and use the database management tool (usually phpMyAdmin) to create a new database. During this process, note down the database name, username, and password as you will need these details during the PrestaShop installation.

Step 4: Installation Open a web browser and enter the URL of your website (or directory where you uploaded PrestaShop). The PrestaShop installation wizard should start automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions:

1. Select your language and click "Next."
2. Accept the license agreement.
3. Fill in the database information (database name, username, password).
4. Set up information about your store and administrative details.

Step 5: Completing the Installation Once the configuration is complete, click on the "Install" button. The installation should proceed automatically. Upon completion, you will be redirected to the PrestaShop administrative interface where you can start configuring your store.

Installing PrestaShop is a relatively straightforward process that requires basic knowledge of working with web hosting and database management. After successful installation, you can begin adding products, configuring payments and shipping, and customizing the appearance of your store using templates and modules. With PrestaShop, you can efficiently manage your online store and provide customers with a pleasant shopping experience.