Knowledgebase

Using Softaculous on DirectAdmin

Accessing Softaculous

1. Log in to your DirectAdmin account.
2. Scroll down to the Extra Features or Advanced Features section (depending on your skin).
3. Click on Softaculous Auto Installer or Softaculous Apps Installer. This loads the Softaculous dashboard, similar to cPanel, with search, categories, and popular apps.

Installing an Application (e.g., WordPress)

1. In the Softaculous dashboard, search for the app or browse categories.
2. Click on the app (e.g., WordPress).
3. Click Install Now.
4. Configure the installation:
   • Select the software version (latest or older).
   • Choose the protocol and domain/subdomain.
   • Specify the directory.
   • Enter admin username, password, email, site name, and description.
   • Optionally, choose a theme or advanced options.
5. Click Install. You'll get a confirmation with access details upon completion.

Ensure your domain is added in DirectAdmin's Domain Setup if it's not listed.

Managing Installations

1. Click the All Installations icon in the top bar of the Softaculous dashboard.
2. View your list of installs and perform actions like:
   • Edit installation details.
   • Clone or stage the site.
   • Push staging to live.
   • Remove or detach installations.
   • Direct sign-on to the admin area.
   • Reset passwords.

WordPress Manager provides extra tools for WP-specific management, like cloning or staging.

Backups and Restores

1. In All Installations, select an app and click Backup.
2. Configure and create the backup.
3. Access Backup and Restore from the top menu to manage, download, or restore backups, including to remote servers.
4. Set up automated backups in the app's settings.

Updates and Other Features

• Updates: Check for updates in All Installations and upgrade manually or enable auto-updates (especially for WordPress).
• Other Tools: Similar to cPanel, including script demos, ratings, theme customization, templates, and import options for existing installs.

Tips and Best Practices

• Use strong, unique passwords for admin accounts.
• Regularly update apps to avoid security issues.
• Test changes in staging before going live.
• If you encounter errors, check your hosting limits (e.g., disk space) or consult Softaculous support docs.