How to Install WordPress on Your Hosting Account (Step-by-Step)
Installing WordPress used to require manually uploading files and creating a database by hand. Today, almost every hosting control panel includes a one-click installer that does all of this for you in minutes. Here’s exactly how it works.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
- An active hosting account with cPanel or DirectAdmin access
- A domain name already pointed to your hosting (or a temporary subdomain to start with)
- About 10 minutes
Step 1: Log In to Your Hosting Control Panel
Log in to your cPanel or DirectAdmin account using the login details emailed to you when your hosting account was activated. If you can’t find this email, your hosting provider’s support team can resend it.
Step 2: Open the Softaculous Apps Installer
Inside your control panel, look for an icon labeled Softaculous Apps Installer, usually found under a “Software” or “Auto Installers” section.
Step 3: Select WordPress
Softaculous lists dozens of applications — search for WordPress and click Install Now to open the setup wizard.
Step 4: Choose Your Domain and Site Settings
You’ll be asked to choose:
- Which domain (or subdomain) to install WordPress on
- Your site name and tagline
- An admin username and a strong password — avoid using “admin” as your username
- Your admin email address, used for password resets and notifications
Step 5: Click Install and Wait
Once your settings look correct, click Install. Softaculous will automatically create your database, configure WordPress, and install it — this usually takes under a minute.
Step 6: Log In and Enable SSL
Visit yourdomain.com/wp-admin and log in with the admin credentials you set. Before doing anything else, make sure your free SSL certificate is enabled in your control panel so your site loads securely over HTTPS.
What’s Next?
With WordPress installed, you’re ready to choose a theme, install essential plugins, and start adding content. If you’d rather skip the setup entirely, our WordPress Hosting plans come with WordPress pre-installed, auto-updates, and a WordPress-optimized server environment out of the box. Need a hand with installation? Our support team is available 24/7.
