How to Install a WordPress Website (Easy Guide)

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Multiple methods exist to install WordPress, including using Softaculous from cPanel or manually installing it. Softaculous allows a quick installation with an auto-installer, saving time and reducing errors. Alternatively, manual installation involves downloading the software, creating a database, and configuring settings.

WordPress is easy to use, flexible, and offers a wide range of features that make it an ideal platform for both beginners and advanced users. If you are looking to create your own website using WordPress, then you will need to know how to install it. 

In this easy guide, we will walk you through the process of installing a WordPress website step-by-step, so you can get your site up and running in no time.

Your Options to Install a WordPress Website

Before diving into creating your WordPress website, it’s essential to understand the different methods available for installation. By selecting from available installation options, you can ensure your website is set up effectively and efficiently.

There are two common methods for installing WordPress:

  • Using cPanel and Softaculous: With this method, you’ll log into your web host’s cPanel and access the Softaculous auto-installer to install WordPress quickly. This is an easy and time-saving option, as it involves minimal configuration and automatically creates a database for you.
  • Manual installation: This option requires more involvement, as you need to download the WordPress software, create a database, and configure settings yourself. While it may take some more time and effort, the manual installation gives you full control over the process and is a great choice for users who want to customize their setup.

Installing WordPress from cPanel with Softaculous

Installing WordPress from cPanel with Softaculous is a quick and efficient way to get your WordPress website up and running. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Log in to your cPanel

Access your web hosting account’s cPanel, which is typically provided by your hosting provider. Log in with your username and password.

Step 2: Locate Softaculous

Once you’re logged in to cPanel, look for the Softaculous icon or the “WordPress Installer” option, which is usually located under the “Auto Installers” or “Software” section.

Step 3: Choose WordPress for installation

Click on the WordPress icon or select “WordPress” from the list of available software in Softaculous.

Step 4: Start the installation

Click on the “Install Now” button to start the installation process.

Step 5: Configure WordPress settings

You’ll be prompted to enter various settings for your WordPress website, including the domain name, directory (if you want to install WordPress in a specific folder), site name, site description, and admin username and password. Fill in these details according to your preferences.

Step 6: Select plugins and themes (optional)

You can also choose to install plugins and themes during the installation process if you want to customize your WordPress website further. However, this step is optional.

Step 7: Click Install

Once you have entered all the necessary information, click on the “Install” button to initiate the installation process. Once initiated, Softaculous will automatically install WordPress on your server. Wait for the process to complete, which usually takes a few minutes.

Note that the process can be slightly different depending on the hosting provider. Please refer to your hosting provider’s documentation for more precise information.

Installing WordPress Manually

Installing WordPress manually gives you more control over the process and is a good option for those who are comfortable with technical tasks. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install WordPress manually:

Step 1: Locate your database login details

Before installing WordPress, you’ll need to gather your database login details, including the database name, username, password, and database host. You can usually find this information in your web hosting provider’s cPanel.

Step 2: Download WordPress

Visit the official WordPress website (https://wordpress.org/) and download the latest version of WordPress in a zip file format.

Step 3: Extract WordPress

Once the WordPress zip file is downloaded, extract its contents to a folder using a file extraction tool. This will create a folder called “wordpress” containing all the WordPress files.

Step 4: Open File Manager

Access the file manager in the cPanel to navigate to the root directory of your website.

Step 5: Upload the WordPress files and folders

Using a FTP client or the file manager, upload the extracted “wordpress” folder and its contents to the root directory of your website.

Step 6: Open index.php in your browser

The next steps of the installation process occur in your web browser. You will need to open the index.php file (or any other relevant file) to continue with the installation. Simply click the file and then press “View”. 

Step 7: Choose your language

Choose your preferred language from the list of available languages on the WordPress installation page.

Step 8: Begin the installation

Click on the “Let’s go” button to begin the WordPress installation process.

Step 9: Enter your database details

On the installation page, enter the database details (database name, username, password, and database host) that you gathered in Step 1.

Step 10: Click on the “Run the installation”

Once you have entered the correct details and WordPress is able to access your database, you will receive a confirmation. Click on the “Run the installation” button to proceed with the installation process.

Step 11: Enter your login details

Fill in the required information, such as site name, admin username, password, and email address on the next page. Click on the “Install WordPress” button to complete the installation of WordPress on your website.

Step 12: Log in

After the installation is complete, you’ll be directed to the WordPress login page. Enter your admin username and password to log in to your WordPress admin area for the first time.

After WordPress Installation: Here’s What to Do Next

Congratulations! You have successfully installed WordPress on your website. Now, it’s time to take some important steps to set up your website and make it ready for your audience. Here are some essential tasks you should consider after WordPress installation:

  • Change your admin password: As a security measure, it’s crucial to change the default admin password provided during installation. Go to your WordPress admin area and navigate to “Users” > “Your Profile” to set a strong and unique password to protect your website from unauthorized access.
  • Update WordPress and plugins: Keeping your WordPress installation and plugins up-to-date is crucial for the security and performance of your website. Check for any available updates in the “Updates” section of your WordPress admin area and apply them regularly to ensure your website stays secure and runs smoothly.
  • Customize your website’s appearance: WordPress offers a wide range of themes that allow you to change the appearance of your website. Navigate to “Appearance” > “Themes” in your WordPress admin area to choose and activate a theme that fits your website’s branding and design.
  • Install essential plugins: Plugins are additional software that can extend the functionality of your WordPress website. Consider installing essential plugins such as a backup plugin to safeguard your website data, a security plugin to protect against malicious attacks, and an SEO plugin to optimize your website for search engines.
  • Configure website settings: Review and configure your website’s settings to suit your requirements. This includes settings related to permalink structure, comment settings, media settings, and more. Customizing these settings will help you optimize your website’s functionality and performance.
  • Set up website backups: Set up regular backups of your website to protect against data loss due to technical issues, hacking, or human error. Consider using a reliable backup plugin to automate this process and ensure your website’s data is safe.

Conclusion

Installing WordPress on your website is a straightforward process that can be done through various methods, such as using cPanel with Softaculous or manually. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this blog post, you can easily set up a WordPress website and take the first steps towards creating your online presence. 

Remember to also take important post-installation tasks to ensure your website’s security and optimal performance. With WordPress’s powerful features and flexibility, you’re now ready to embark on your website-building journey and make your mark on the web. Happy website building!

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