Table of Contents
Need to know how to install WordPress? This guide will take you through every step, from accessing your cPanel and finding the WordPress Toolkit to completing the installation and setting up your site. Let’s get started.
Key Takeaways
Start by logging into your cPanel account to access the tools needed for installing WordPress.
Use the WordPress Toolkit in cPanel to streamline the installation process and easily manage your site settings.
After installation, enhance your site by choosing a theme, creating basic pages, and installing essential plugins for added functionality.
Log in to Your cPanel Account
To access your cPanel account, you have two options. Start by visiting our website, Ozzietel, and navigating to the “Customer Login” section. Enter your username and password to log in. If two-factor authentication is enabled, input the six-digit code from your authentication app for added security.
Once logged in, you’ll find yourself in the hosting account dashboard. Look for the button or link labeled “cPanel” or “Control Panel” in the Services section. Click on it to open the cPanel interface and get ready to install WordPress.
Alternatively, you can log in directly to cPanel by using your domain name followed by port number 2083 in a web browser (e.g., https://example.com:2083). Ensure you know your domain name for this option.
Find the WordPress Toolkit
Locate the WordPress Toolkit within the ‘Domains’ section of cPanel. This tool simplifies managing multiple WordPress instances and comes with your own domain cPanel license at no extra cost.
If the WP Toolkit icon isn’t visible, contact your hosting provider’s support team for activation. Once activated, click the “WordPress Toolkit” icon to open it.
Initiate the WordPress Installation
Initiate the WordPress installation by clicking the ‘Install’ button within the WordPress Toolkit. This crucial step sets the stage for your WordPress website.
After clicking ‘Install’, the toolkit will guide you through the installation settings, making it easy to follow even for beginners.
Configure the WordPress Installation
Configuring your WordPress installation involves filling out details like the site title, administrator username, and password. Ensure the administrator username and password are strong and unique for security.
Enter a valid email address for notifications and password recovery. You can also choose to discourage search engines from indexing your site if it’s not yet ready for public viewing. This step is essential for setting up your WordPress instance correctly.
Select Domain and Directory
Select the right domain and directory. Obtain a domain name if you haven’t already, then fill out the Installation Path details by choosing the domain name and directory. You can install your WordPress site in either the root directory or a subdirectory based on your preference. For example, installing in the root directory means your site will be accessible at https://example.com. To achieve this, leave the Installation Path blank. Conversely, if you want to install in a subdirectory, enter the desired folder name in the Installation Path, such as ‘blog’, making your site accessible at https://example.com/blog.
If unsure about the web directory location, consult Ozzietel support or system administrator, as this choice determines where users will access your website. Additionally, consider reaching out to various hosting providers for further assistance.
Enter Site Information
Enter your site information, starting with the website title to define your site’s identity. This title is what visitors will see, so make it count.
Next, choose the Plugin/Theme set to customize your WordPress site’s appearance and functionality. Select from a variety of pre-configured sets that best match your vision. Alternatively, you can set this option to none if you prefer to start with a clean slate and add themes and plugins manually.
Set the Website Language to ensure your site communicates effectively with your audience. This setting will determine the default language for your WordPress dashboard and site content.
Finally, select the WordPress Version you wish to install. Opt for the latest version to benefit from the newest features and security updates.
Review all entered information for accuracy before proceeding, as this step sets the foundation for your WordPress website.
Set Administrator Details
Enter a strong and unique administrator username and password. Ensure the password is entered correctly as this step is critical for securing your WordPress site.
Enter a valid email address for notifications and password recovery to ensure access to your admin area if you forget your login credentials.
Database Settings
The database settings are typically prefilled to streamline the installation process. However, if you have specific preferences or requirements, these settings can be customized. Adjust the database name, username, and password as needed for your WordPress instance to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.
Automatic Update Settings
Configure automatic updates to ensure your WordPress site remains secure and up-to-date with the latest features and security patches. This proactive approach helps maintain the site’s stability and protects it from potential vulnerabilities.
Complete the Installation
With all information filled out, click the ‘Install’ button to initiate the WordPress installation. Wait briefly as WordPress installs.
Access your site by visiting https://example.com/ if installed in the root directory, or https://example.com/blog/ if in a subdirectory. You’ll be greeted with a login prompt after successful installation.
Log in to Your WordPress Dashboard
Post-installation, you’ll be prompted to log in to your WordPress site. A login option and confirmation message will indicate successful installation.
There are two ways to access your WordPress dashboard. First, you can log in through the WP Toolkit in cPanel, which lists installed WordPress sites. Click “Log In” to access the admin dashboard directly. Alternatively, you can visit your website’s URL followed by /wp-admin (e.g., https://example.com/wp-admin) to enter your credentials and access the WordPress dashboard.
Setting Up a Basic Website
With WordPress installed, start creating your website by accessing the WP Admin dashboard through /wp-admin on your site’s URL. Manage all site aspects from here, including themes and plugins.
If you forget your password, reset it directly from the WP Admin login page. The dashboard shows a summary of your site’s content, making it easy to manage multiple sites and perform complex tasks.
Choose a Theme
Select a theme that enhances your website’s look and performance. Go to Appearance, then Themes, and click Add New Theme to browse or search among over 10,000 options.
Choose a lightweight multipurpose theme like Astra, Kadence Theme, or GeneratePress. These free themes ensure a smooth user experience across devices.
Create Basic Pages
Next, create basic pages. In the WordPress admin dashboard, select ‘Pages,’ then ‘Add New’. Use the block editor to customize layouts. Including an ‘About Us’ page builds visitor trust.
Pre-designed layouts can significantly speed up the page creation process.
Customize Navigation Menu
Create a well-organized navigation menu for usability. Under “Appearance,” click “Menus” to start. Establishing a clear page hierarchy improves navigation.
Include all essential pages in the navigation menu. Dropdowns can facilitate access to subcategories.
Install Essential Plugins
Plugins enhance your WordPress site’s functionality. Click the Add New Plugin button to start. Search for plugins in the repository, install plugins, and activate them to ensure proper functionality.
Install WP Rocket to improve site speed. WP Toolkit also offers functionalities like staging, cloning, and automatic updates.
Optimize Your Website
Optimization is crucial for a successful website. Our service uses LiteSpeed Web Server, featuring a robust LiteSpeed caching app that significantly enhances loading speed and performance. LiteSpeed caching will be installed automatically, ensuring your site benefits from optimal speed without any additional setup.
The WordPress installation process can often be completed in under five minutes with one-click installers. Utilizing the built-in LiteSpeed caching, along with essential plugins, is recommended for optimal site performance.
Summary
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed and set up your WordPress site. From logging into your cPanel account to optimizing your website, you’ve covered all the necessary steps to get your site up and running. Remember, WordPress offers endless customization options, allowing you to create a website that truly represents your brand.
Now that you have the foundation, it’s time to explore and experiment. The world of WordPress is vast and full of opportunities. So, start creating, and let your imagination run wild!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I log into my cPanel account?
To access your cPanel account, you have two methods. Begin by visiting the Ozzietel website at https://ozzietel.au/ and heading to the “Customer Login” section. Enter your credentials to log in. If two-factor authentication is set up, you’ll need to enter the six-digit code from your authentication app for extra security.
Once logged in, you’ll be directed to the hosting account dashboard. Look for a button or link labeled “cPanel” or “Control Panel” within the Services section. Click on it to access the cPanel interface and prepare to install WordPress.
Alternatively, you can log in directly to cPanel by entering your domain name followed by port 2083 in your web browser (e.g., https://example.com:2083). Make sure you have your domain name handy for this method.
What if the WordPress Toolkit is not visible in cPanel?
If the WordPress Toolkit isn’t visible in cPanel, it likely needs activation by your hosting provider. Just reach out to their support team for help and they’ll get it sorted for you.
How do I create a navigation menu in WordPress?
To create a navigation menu in WordPress, just hover over “Appearance,” click on “Menus,” and set up a clear hierarchy by including all your essential pages. It’s a straightforward way to help your visitors find what they need!
What plugins should I install for optimization?
For optimization, take advantage of the LiteSpeed caching app included in our service, which significantly enhances your site’s loading speed and performance. Additionally, consider using WP Toolkit for managing staging, cloning, and updates. These tools can really enhance your site’s performance!
