How to Use Softaculous Apps Installer in cPanel

Introduction

The Softaculous Apps Installer is a powerful auto-installer in cPanel that allows you to quickly install over 400 web applications — including WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, Magento, and more — with just a few clicks. It simplifies the process of setting up websites by handling tasks like file uploads, database creation, and initial configuration automatically.

This guide explains how to access and use Softaculous to install and manage apps on your hosting account.

Key Features of Softaculous

• One-click installation of popular apps like WordPress, PrestaShop, and Laravel

• Automatic updates and backups

• App cloning, staging, and import options

• Multilingual interface and support

• User-friendly dashboard with filters and search functionality

How to Access Softaculous in cPanel

1. Log in to your cPanel account

2. Scroll down to the Software section

3. Click on Softaculous Apps Installer

   • Alternatively, use the search bar and type “Softaculous”

You’ll be redirected to the Softaculous dashboard.

Installing an Application

1. From the Softaculous homepage, choose the app you want (e.g., WordPress)

2. Click Install

3. Fill in the required installation details:

   • Choose domain or subdomain

   • Directory (leave blank for root install)

   • Admin username, password, email

   • Site name and description (optional)

4. Click Install to begin

The process usually takes less than a minute. Once done, Softaculous will show your login link and admin URL.

Managing Installed Applications

To manage your installations:

1. Click on the "All Installations" icon (usually a box or list icon on the top right)

2. You’ll see all installed apps with options to:

   • Edit details

   • Clone the site

   • Create a staging copy

   • Backup/restore

   • Delete installation

Updating Applications

Softaculous regularly checks for updates to your installed apps.

• If updates are available, you’ll see a notification badge

• Click on the update icon and follow the prompts

• You can also enable automatic updates for plugins, themes, or core software (where supported)

Backup & Restore

Before making major changes, it's wise to create a backup.

1. Go to the installation list

2. Click on the Backup icon

3. Select what you want to include (files, database, etc.)

4. Click Backup Installation

To restore:

• Click on the Backups and Restore icon

• Choose the backup you want to restore

• Click Restore

Staging and Cloning

These features are useful for testing changes without affecting your live site.

• Staging: Creates a copy of your site for development/testing

• Cloning: Duplicates your website to another directory or domain

Both options are available via the manage installation section for supported apps like WordPress.

Conclusion

The Softaculous Apps Installer makes building and managing websites incredibly easy, even for beginners. Whether you’re launching a blog, an online store, or a business site, Softaculous handles the technical tasks so you can focus on creating content and growing your online presence.