Getting Started with cPanel
What is cPanel and how do I get started?
cPanel is a popular web-based control panel that allows you to manage your hosting account easily. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing everything from website files and databases to email accounts and DNS settings. With cPanel, you can efficiently handle various tasks related to your hosting account without needing advanced technical knowledge. Some of the most commonly used features in cPanel include: File Manager: Manage, upload, or delete files for your website withoutSome readersHow do I update cPanel's contact information?
To update the contact information in cPanel, please follow the steps below: Log in to the Client Area: Visit my.elitehost.co.za and enter your login credentials. Navigate to Services: Once logged in, click on 'Services' and then select "My Services" from the dropdown menu. Go to cPanel: Click on the cPanel icon next to the service. Update Contact Information: Scroll down to Contact Information Modify details asFew readersHow do I log in to cPanel?
cPanel is where you configure the various features of your web hosting. Your cPanel login details are included in your welcome email. You can access cPanel either via a single-click button in your Elitehost Client Area or directly using your username and password. Below are the steps for both methods: Method 1: Log into cPanel via Elitehost Client Area This is the easiest method as it doesn’t require entering your username and password. Go to the Elitehost Client Area (https://my.eliPopularWhere should I upload my website files?
Your website’s files should be placed in the publichtml folder For example, if your domain is mywebsite.com, a file located in publichtml/mypicture.jpg would be accessible online at http://mywebsite.com/mypicture.jpg. The www directory acts as a shortcut to the publichtml/ directory, so you can use it interchangeably for convenience.Few readersHow do I reset my cPanel password?
If you've forgotten your cPanel password or need to change it for security reasons, you can easily reset it through our Client Area. Follow these steps to recover or reset your cPanel account password: Steps to Reset Your cPanel Password: Log in to the Client Area: Visit my.elitehost.co.za and enter your credentials. Navigate to Services: Once logged in, click on Services in the main menu. Select My Services: ClickFew readersWhat are my FTP details?
Your FTP details are needed for connecting to your hosting account and transferring files. Here's how to find them: Server Address: This is usually your domain name (e.g., exampledomain.co.za) or your server's IP address. Username: This is your cPanel username, which is included in your hosting account welcome email. Password: This is the password you use for your cPanel account. If you have created separate FTP accounts, use the password associated with that specific FTP acFew readersHow do I use the File Manager in cPanel?
The cPanel File Manager is a powerful tool that allows you to manage your website files efficiently. This article will guide you through its basic functionalities, including uploading files, editing files, viewing hidden files and setting file and directory permissions. Accessing the File Manager You can find the File Manager at cPanel Files File Manager. This tool is ideal for quick tasks such as uploading a single file or .zip archive (which you can then extract, e.g., for a WFew readers
Site Builders & Software
How do I install applications using Softaculous in cPanel?
Softaculous is a powerful auto-installer that enables you to quickly install a variety of applications on your cPanel account with just a few clicks. This guide will walk you through the steps to automatically install applications using Softaculous. Steps to Install Applications Using Softaculous: Log into cPanel: Access your cPanel account using your credentials. (Refer to our article: How do I log into cPanel?) Navigate toFew readersHow do I create a website using SitePad in cPanel?
SitePad is a powerful website builder that allows you to create a professional website with ease using a drag-and-drop editor. Follow the steps below to access and create your website using SitePad. How Do I Access SitePad in cPanel? To start building your website with SitePad, follow these steps: Log into cPanel: Access cPanel using your credentials. (Refer to our article: How do I log into cPanel?) Navigate to SitePad:Some readersHow do I create a website using Site.pro in cPanel?
Site.pro is a user-friendly website builder that enables you to create a professional website without any coding skills. Follow the steps below to start building your website using Site.pro in cPanel. Steps to Access Site.pro in cPanel: Log into cPanel: Use your cPanel credentials to log in. Locate the Site.pro Website Builder: Scroll down to the Software section. Click on Site Builder to launch Site.pro. Steps to Create a Website Using Site.pro:Some readers
Domain Management
How do I add a redirect in cPanel?
Log into cPanel. In the Domains section, click on Redirects. Under Type, choose the type of redirect: Permanent (301): This tells search engines and browsers that the redirect is permanent. Temporary (302): This tells search engines and browsers that the redirect is temporary. In the http://(www.)? field, select the domain you want to redirect. Enter the path you want to redirect (or leave it blank to redirect the whole domain). In the Redirects to field, enter thFew readersHow do I add/modify my domain's DNS records?
To add or modify DNS records for your domain, follow these steps: Log in to your cPanel account. Navigate to the "Domains" section and click on "Zone Editor." Find your domain and click on "Manage." To add a DNS record: Select the type of record you want to add (e.g., A, CNAME, MX, TXT). Enter the required information in the provided fields. Click "Add Record" to apply your changes. To modify an existing DNS record: Locate the rPopularHow do I add a new website as an Addon domain in cPanel?
If you'd like to add a new domain to run a new website, you can do this within the "Domains" option in cPanel. Addon domains count toward your number of unique websites and can have their own unique email accounts. To add a new website as an Addon domain in cPanel, follow these steps: Log into your cPanel account. In the Domains section, click on Domains. Click Create a New Domain. Enter the domain name in the Domain field. Untick the Share documSome readersHow do I add a parked (alias) domain in cPanel?
If you’d like to add a new domain to show the same content as an existing website/domain, you can do this within the "Domains" option in cPanel. To add a new domain as a Parked (Alias) domain in cPanel, follow these steps: Log into your cPanel account. In the Domains section, click on Domains. Click Create a New Domain. Enter the domain name in the Domain field. Tick the Share document root option to allow this domain to point to the same websiFew readersHow do I add a new Subdomain in cPanel?
If you’d like to add a new subdomain to your existing domain, you can easily do so within the "Domains" section of cPanel. Subdomains allow you to manage different sections of your website independently and can feature unique content. For example, you might create a subdomain like blog.exampledomain.co.za to host a separate blog instead of using exampledomain.co.za/blog To add a new subdomain in cPanel, follow these steps: Log into your cPanel account. In the DomainsFew readers
Security & SSL
What does "AutoSSL reduced SSL coverage" mean?
AutoSSL is a feature in cPanel that automatically secures your website with SSL certificates, ensuring encrypted connections for visitors. Occasionally, you may receive a notification indicating “reduced SSL coverage.” This message can be confusing due to the technical language it contains. What does "reduced SSL coverage" mean? This notification indicates that AutoSSL was unable to renew the SSL certificate for one or more of your domains or subdomains. This typically occurs when a domaiFew readersHow do I get a free SSL certificate for my website?
At Elitehost, we provide free SSL certificates through AutoSSL, issued by Let’s Encrypt. These certificates are enabled by default and automatically issued every 12-24 hours. However, you may want to run AutoSSL manually to ensure the certificates are applied immediately. Step-by-Step Guide to Run AutoSSL Access cPanel: For help, see our article How do I log into cPanel? Navigate to SSL/TLS Status: Once inside cPanSome readersHow can I redirect my website to HTTPS/SSL?
cPanel provides a feature to force your website to use HTTPS. Using this feature is preferred over manually adding redirects using the "Redirects" feature or manually adding rules to the .htaccess file. Steps to Force HTTPS Redirect in cPanel: Log in to cPanel. Access your cPanel account using your credentials. Refer to this article: How do I log into cPanel? Navigate to the Domains Section. Look for the DomainFew readersWhat is Imunify360 & How Does It Work?
Imunify360 is security software used on all shared hosting servers at Elitehost. Developed by CloudLinux, it employs a herd immunity approach and a six-layer strategy to protect against various attacks, including DDoS, malware, and brute-force attempts, which are common for WordPress sites. WordPress is a frequent target for hackers, and our servers encounter thousands of attacks daily. Imunify360 helps shield users from these threats through the following layers: Real-time malware scanningSome readersHow do I secure my website?
Securing your website is essential to protect your data, users, and business from cyber threats. Elitehost offers several built-in features, such as free SSL certificates and Imunify360 security, to help keep your website secure. Follow the additional steps below to further enhance your website’s security. 1. Keep Your Software Up to Date Ensure that your website’s CMS (such as WordPress), plugins, and themes are updated regularly. Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated softwaFew readersHow do I install my paid SSL certificate using AutoInstall in cPanel?
If you've purchased an SSL certificate from Elitehost, you can easily install it using the AutoInstall feature in cPanel. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your SSL certificate up and running on your website. If you haven't purchased an SSL certificate yet, you can do so here. Steps to Install Your Paid SSL Certificate Check Your Email for Enrollment Steps: After purchasing your SSL certificate, you wFew readersHow do I install a custom SSL certificate in cPanel?
If you have purchased an SSL certificate from a provider other than Elitehost, you can easily install it using cPanel. This guide will walk you through the process of installing your custom SSL certificate. You may need to generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) before requesting your certificate, so refer to the CSR generation steps below if needed. Steps to Install a Custom SSL Certificate Log into cPanel: Access cPanel using your credentials. (Refer to our article: HowFew readersMy website has been hacked, what should I do?
Discovering that your website has been hacked can be both alarming and overwhelming. However, by following the right steps, you can quickly resolve the issue and secure your site. Steps to recover and secure your website: Identify Modified Files Log in to cPanel and open the File Manager. Navigate to the publichtml directory (or the directory where your website files are stored). Check for files with unexpected modification dates or unfamiliar file names. These mFew readersHow do I configure Two-Factor Authentication for cPanel?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your cPanel account by requiring not only your password but also a second form of verification. This helps protect your account from unauthorised access. Follow the steps below to enable 2FA in cPanel. Steps to Enable Two-Factor Authentication Go to to cPanel by visiting https://exampledomain.co.za/cpanel (Refer to our article: How do I log in to cPanel?) Log in using ySome readersHow do I configure Two-Factor Authentication for Webmail?
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your Webmail account by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. This helps prevent unauthorised access to your email. Steps to Enable Two-Factor Authentication in Webmail Access Webmail by visiting https://exampledomain.co.za/webmail Log in using your email address and password. On the Webmail management screen (before opening RoundCube), look for the Edit Your Settings section.Few readers
Database Management
How can I create a MySQL database?
MySQL databases play a crucial role in powering web applications, such as content management systems like WordPress and ecommerce platforms. Follow these steps to create and manage MySQL databases in cPanel: Steps to Create a MySQL Database Log in to cPanel. Scroll down to the "Databases" section and click on "Manage My Databases". Under "Create New Database", enter the desired database name. Click "Create Database". Steps to Create a MySQL UserFew readersHow can I import or export a MySQL database?
You can IMPORT a MySQL database using the phpMyAdmin tool in cPanel by following these steps: Steps to Import a MySQL Database: Log in to cPanel Scroll down to the "Databases" section, then click phpMyAdmin. Select the Database On the left sidebar, click the name of the database where you want to import data. Click 'Import' In the right window, navigate to the 'Import' tab at the top of the screen. Click 'Choose File' AFew readersWhat are my database host and port details?
The standard connection details for all MySQL/MariaDB databases on our cPanel servers are: Host: localhost Port: 3306 Connecting remotely? If you want to connect to your database from an external application (like MySQL Workbench), you must: Log in to cPanel Go to Remote MySQL Add your IP address to the Access Hosts list Once added, the host to connect to would be your domain name, server IP address, or server hostname. Where do I manage my databasesFew readers
Backup and Restore
What backups do you offer?
At Elitehost, we understand that data security is paramount for our clients. To ensure your information is safe and easily recoverable, we provide comprehensive backup solutions using Acronis. Backup Availability We offer Acronis backups on all unlimited, business, and reseller hosting plans. For VPS clients, Acronis can be enabled at an additional cost for the license and storage, providing flexible options tailored to your needs. Daily Backups Our backup system inclFew readersHow do I restore my website using Acronis?
How do I restore my website files with Acronis? To restore the account to a specific date, please follow these steps: Log in to cPanel. Go to Acronis Backup. Select the desired date you would like to roll back to. Go to Files. Check the publichtml folder box (only select the publichtml folder). Click Recover. How do I resFew readersHow do I restore email/mailbox using Acronis?
To restore mailboxes via Acronis, follow these steps:Few readersHow do I generate a full cPanel backup?
To perform a full backup of your account, follow these steps: Log into cPanel. In the Files section, click on the Backup icon. Under Full Backup, click Download a Full Account Backup. On the next page, select the Home Directory option from the Backup Destination drop-down menu. For Email Address, select whether you wish to receive an email notification once the backup is complete. (You can also change the notification email address in the provided field if needed.) ClicFew readers
PHP & Advanced Settings
How do I set the PHP version, extensions and options in cPanel?
To change the current PHP version used by your website: Log into cPanel. In the Software section, click on Select PHP Version. On the PHP Selector page, you will see the current PHP version. Click the dropdown next to the Current PHP Version. Select the PHP version you want to use from the list (e.g., PHP 7.4, PHP 8.2). Click Set as current to apply the changes.Some readersHow do I disable LiteSpeed connection timeouts?
LiteSpeed web server is utilised on our hosting accounts for its improved security, performance, and stability. However, certain PHP scripts may need to run for extended periods without interruption. Examples include WordPress modules such as BackupBuddy, ImportBuddy, or any other module that relies on a WordPress built-in cron job. Additionally, whenever a PHP application rebuilds MySQL indexes, the process may take a long time to complete. Disabling LiteSpeed connection timeouts can be essentiFew readersHow do I increase the max upload limit in cPanel?
To increase the max upload size, both the uploadmaxfilesize and postmaxsize values need to be updated. Follow these steps: Log into your cPanel account. Under the Software section, click on Select PHP Version. Click on Options to modify the PHP settings. Locate and update the values for uploadmaxfilesize and postmaxsize as needed.Few readersHow do I set up Cron Jobs in cPanel?
Cron jobs allow you to automate tasks on your server by scheduling scripts or commands to run at specific times or intervals. This is especially useful for tasks like regular backups, clearing caches, or sending scheduled emails. Follow the steps below to set up a cron job in cPanel. Steps to Set Up a Cron Job in cPanel Log into cPanel: Access cPanel using your credentials. (Refer to our article: How do I log into cPanel?)Few readersHow do I use PHP Composer?
Composer is a powerful dependency management tool for PHP, allowing you to install and manage libraries easily. This guide explains how to use Composer, whether through a SSH (shell access) or a PHP script. Option 1: Using Composer with Shell Access If you have SSH/Terminal access through a Business or Reseller package, you can directly run Composer commands in the terminal. Open Terminal / SSH Session: cPanel -Advanced -Terminal or connect via SSH using your usernameFew readersHow do I connect via SSH?
Accessing your cPanel account via SSH (Secure Shell) allows you to securely perform command-line tasks. This guide covers connecting to SSH through the cPanel Terminal, PuTTY (Windows), and Terminal (macOS/Linux). Prerequisites Enable SSH Access: SSH is not enabled by default on shared cPanel hosting. If you have a Business or Reseller package, request SSH acceFew readersHow do I set up SSH keys for cPanel?
To securely access your cPanel account, using SSH keys is a highly recommended alternative to using your cPanel password. SSH keys offer a more robust layer of security compared to password-based authentication, which is particularly valuable in shared hosting environments. How do I get SSH access? SSH access is not enabled by default on cPanel hosting. However, if you have a Business or Reseller package, you can request SSH access to be activated for your account by submitting a supFew readers
Troubleshooting & Performance
My website is displaying a 503 error. How do I fix it?
A 503 Service Unavailable error typically means that your website’s resources are temporarily maxed out, preventing the server from processing requests. This error usually results from high usage of your cPanel account resources. Step 1: Check Resource Usage in cPanel Log in to cPanel. Look at the Statistics section in the sidebar. Check if your CPU, Physical Memory, or I/O usage limits are maxed out. If you notice any of these resources maxed out, it could cause a 503 error.Few readersMy website is displaying a 403 error. How do I fix it?
A 403 Forbidden error occurs when your web server understands the request but refuses to authorise it. This error can arise from various issues, including incorrect file permissions and security blocks. Common Causes of a 403 Errors: Incorrect File Permissions: To ensure that users can access your website, the correct file permissions must be set. Typically, this is handled automatically during file uploads. However, if you've been manually adjusting permissions, it's possibSome readersWhy do I get a "Your IP Address Has Changed" error in cPanel?
When logging into cPanel, you may encounter a message that says: Your IP address has changed. Please log in again. Why does this happen? cPanel/WHM monitor your IP address during login and throughout your session. If your IP address changes during this process, cPanel may block the login attempt or immediately end the session. This security feature is designed to protect your account from session hijacking and unauthorised access. This commonly occurs when: Your internet providerFew readersMy website is displaying a 500 error. How do I fix it?
A PHP 500 error, also known as an "Internal Server Error," can occur when your website encounters issues with its code or server configuration. These errors can be intermittent or persistent, and understanding their cause is key to resolving them. Understanding PHP 500 Errors A PHP 500 error is a generic server-side error that doesn't provide specific details, which can make it difficult to diagnose. These errors are usually related to issues in the PHP code or settings. IntermittentFew readersHow do I run a Traceroute?
If you're experiencing network issues, our support team may ask you to run a traceroute. A traceroute helps identify the path your network traffic takes and where any delays or failures are happening. Below are steps to run a traceroute on both Windows and macOS. Steps to run a traceroute on Windows Open the Command Prompt: Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog. Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt. Run the TraceroFew readers
Node.js/Python Applications
How do I deploy a Node.js App in cPanel?
Node.js is a popular JavaScript runtime that enables developers to build fast, scalable web applications. If you’re familiar with Node.js development, you might be wondering how to host your application on a shared server. In this guide, we’ll walk you through deploying a Node.js app on cPanel. Step 1: Create a Node.js Application Navigate to cPanel: In cPanel, locate and click on Setup Node.js App under the Software section. Click "Create Application": Select this opSome readersHow do I deploy a Python App in cPanel?
Python is a powerful programming language commonly used for web development, scientific computing, data analysis, and more. cPanel makes it easy to deploy Python applications through the Setup Python App feature, allowing you to host your Python applications without needing SSH access. Follow this guide to deploy your Python app in cPanel. Step 1: Create a Python Application Navigate to cPanel: Locate and click on Setup Python App in the Software section of cPanel.Some readersHow can I deploy a Django application on cPanel without SSH/Terminal access?
Django is a high-level Python web framework designed to help developers build robust, scalable web applications quickly and efficiently. It offers a clean, pragmatic design, and comes with powerful features like an integrated admin interface, automatic database management, and built-in security measures against common web vulnerabilities. Many well-known websites and companies use Django for their platforms, including Instagram, Spotify, Pinterest, Mozilla, and YouTube, showcasing Django’s abilSome readers