Expand Your Site: Installing WordPress on Addon Domain

Manage multiple sites with ease on cPanel

Introduction 🌎

Imagine having multiple websites under one roof, each with its own unique identity. That’s the power of addon domains! They let you expand your online presence without the hassle of managing separate hosting accounts. In this guide, we’ll take you on a step-by-step journey to install WordPress on an addon domain using cPanel. Get ready to unlock the potential of your website empire! 🚀


How to install WordPress on addon domain cPanel

© Photographer Leeloo The First

Prerequisites

2. WordPress Installation Files

Before you can install WordPress on your addon domain, you’ll need to have the WordPress installation files. You can download the latest version of WordPress from the official WordPress website. Once you’ve downloaded the files, you’ll need to unzip them. You can do this using a program like WinZip or 7-Zip.

Once you’ve unzipped the files, you’ll have a folder called “wordpress”. This folder contains all of the files that you need to install WordPress. You’ll need to upload this folder to your addon domain’s document root.

3. Creating an Addon Domain 🎯

Creating an addon domain is like adding a new room to your online house. It’s a separate space with its own unique name and address. To do this in cPanel, navigate to the “Addon Domains” section. Here, you’ll enter the new domain name, select the document root (the folder where WordPress will live), and click “Add Domain.” Remember, the document root is like the front door to your new room – choose wisely!

Uploading WordPress Files đŸ’»

Now, let’s get those WordPress files onto your addon domain. You’ve got two options: FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or cPanel’s File Manager. Both are like trusty messengers, delivering your files to the right destination.

With FTP, you’ll need a separate FTP client software. It’s like having a special messenger who knows the secret paths to your addon domain’s document root. Once you’ve connected, simply drag and drop those WordPress files into the correct folder.

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach, cPanel’s File Manager is your go-to. It’s like a built-in file explorer that lets you navigate your addon domain’s files and folders with ease. Just locate the document root and upload your WordPress files there. It’s as simple as dragging and dropping files on your desktop!

5. Creating a Database đŸ’»

Just like a house needs a foundation, your WordPress site needs a database to store its content. It’s like the backbone of your website, holding all your posts, pages, comments, and more.

Creating a database is a breeze in cPanel. Head to the “MySQL Databases” section, give your database a memorable name, and click “Create Database.” Then, create a user with a strong password and assign them to the database. It’s like giving your database a personal bodyguard!

Configuring WordPress

6. Setting Up Database Credentials

Once you’ve created the database, it’s time to connect WordPress to it. Head over to the WordPress installation wizard and enter the database name, username, password, and database host (usually “localhost”). These are the credentials you set up earlier. 💡 Remember, this is like giving your WordPress site the keys to its own personal data vault! 🔑

7. Installing WordPress

🎉 Time to bring your WordPress site to life! Follow these simple steps:

  1. Open the WordPress Wizard: Type in the URL of your addon domain followed by “/wp-admin/install.php” in your browser’s address bar.
  2. Choose Your Language: Select the language you want to use for your WordPress site.
  3. Enter Database Details: Fill in the database name, username, password, and database host provided earlier.
  4. Run the Installation: Click the “Install WordPress” button and let the magic happen!

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your WordPress username and password safe, as they’re the keys to your website’s castle!

Accessing Your WordPress Site 🌐

Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for! ⚡ Once you’ve successfully installed WordPress, you can access your brand-new website by simply typing the URL of your addon domain into your browser’s address bar. Hit enter, and voila! Your WordPress site will appear in all its glory. ✹

To log in to your WordPress dashboard, where you can manage your site’s content and settings, simply append “/wp-admin” to the end of your addon domain’s URL. For example, if your addon domain is “mysite.example.com,” you would enter “mysite.example.com/wp-admin” into your browser’s address bar.

Once you’ve entered your username and password, you’ll be greeted by the familiar WordPress dashboard. From here, you can start customizing your site, adding content, and making it your own. Welcome to the wonderful world of WordPress! 🎉

Troubleshooting Common Errors đŸ€˜

9. Database Connection Issues đŸš«

Installing WordPress can be a breeze, but sometimes you might hit a roadblock with database connection issues. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Here are a few things to check:

  • Database Name: Make sure you’ve entered the correct database name during the WordPress installation. It should match the one you created earlier.

  • Database User: Check if the database user has the necessary permissions to create and access the database.

  • Database Password: Double-check that you’ve entered the correct database password. It’s easy to make a typo here!

  • Database Host: Ensure that the database host is set to “localhost” unless your hosting provider specifies otherwise.

If you’ve checked all these and still can’t connect, reach out to your hosting provider. They’ll be happy to lend a helping hand.

Conclusion

Installing WordPress on an addon domain using cPanel is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. đŸƒâ€â™€ïžđŸ’š By following the instructions outlined in this guide, you can easily manage multiple websites on your cPanel account. đŸ’Ș

Remember, addon domains offer a convenient and cost-effective way to host multiple websites without the need for separate hosting accounts. 💰 It’s like having multiple houses under one roof, but each with its own unique address and style. 🏠🏡

So, don’t hesitate to embrace the power of addon domains and expand your online presence today! 🌐🚀

About David Damstra

Business Leader and Business Developer, Project Manager and Full Stack Developer & Designer Creative Director, Brand Guardian, Minister of Company Culture Co-Author of Professional WordPress. Currently in Third Edition. Seasoned web developer using practical technology to rapidly create standards compliant dynamic websites. Experienced with web development, software development and systems and network management and consulting.