How to Install WordPress Using Softaculous in DirectAdmin
WordPress is the world's most popular website platform and powers millions of websites worldwide. Using Softaculous in DirectAdmin, you can install WordPress in just a few minutes without needing any technical knowledge or manual file uploads.
Installation Overview
Step 1: Login to DirectAdmin
Login to your DirectAdmin control panel using the details provided in your welcome email. Once logged in, you will see your account dashboard and hosting tools.
Step 2: Open Softaculous Apps Installer
Locate and click Softaculous Apps Installer. Softaculous provides quick installation of popular applications including WordPress, Joomla, Drupal and many others.
Step 3: Select WordPress
Click the WordPress icon from the list of available applications and then click Install Now to begin the installation process.
Step 4: Choose Your Domain
Select the domain name where you want WordPress installed. If your website already has SSL enabled, choose the HTTPS protocol for improved security and SEO benefits.
Step 5: Install to the Correct Location
If you want WordPress to load directly from your main website address (for example, https://yourdomain.com), leave the In Directory field completely blank.
Step 6: Enter Website Details
Enter your website name and description. These can be changed later from within the WordPress dashboard if required.
Step 7: Create an Administrator Account
Choose a secure administrator username, strong password and valid email address. Avoid using "admin" as your username for better security.
Step 8: Select Automatic Updates
We recommend enabling automatic updates for WordPress core, plugins and themes. This helps keep your website secure and protected from vulnerabilities.
Step 9: Advanced Options
Softaculous can automatically create backups before updates. Enabling backups provides an additional layer of protection should you ever need to restore your website.
Step 10: Install WordPress
Click Install and wait while Softaculous creates the database, uploads the files and configures WordPress automatically.
After Installation
View Your Website
Visit your domain name in your web browser to view your new WordPress website and confirm the installation was successful.
Login to WordPress
Access your WordPress dashboard by visiting:
https://yourdomain.com/wp-admin
Choose a Theme
Install a theme to customise the appearance of your website. Thousands of free and premium themes are available.
Install Plugins
Extend the functionality of your website with plugins for SEO, security, contact forms, backups, caching and more.
Create Your First Page
Start building your website by creating pages such as Home, About Us, Services and Contact from the WordPress dashboard.
Common Issues & Fixes
WordPress Installed in a Subfolder
If your site loads from yourdomain.com/wordpress, the Directory field was not left blank during installation. Reinstall or adjust the site URL settings.
SSL Certificate Not Working
Ensure an SSL certificate has been installed before selecting HTTPS. If necessary, install a free Let's Encrypt certificate from DirectAdmin.
Forgotten Password
Use the "Lost your password?" link on the WordPress login page to reset your administrator password.
Website Shows a Directory Listing
Verify WordPress was installed in the correct location and that the installation completed successfully.
Unable to Login
Double-check your username and password. If needed, reset the password using the registered administrator email address.
Recommended Next Steps
Install an SSL Certificate
Secure your website with HTTPS encryption and improve visitor trust.
View GuideUpload Additional Files
Learn how to upload files using DirectAdmin File Manager or FTP software.
View GuideWhy Use WordPress?
WordPress is flexible, beginner-friendly and suitable for blogs, business websites, portfolios, online shops and membership sites. With thousands of themes and plugins available, it can be customised to suit almost any type of website.
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