How to Install AlmaLinux 8 with WHM (Web Host Manager)

AlmaLinux 8 is a popular, open-source Linux distribution, often used as a reliable alternative to CentOS for server environments. Installing WHM (Web Host Manager) on AlmaLinux 8 is essential for managing cPanel accounts, hosting multiple websites, and offering web hosting services. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing AlmaLinux 8 and WHM on your server.

Step 1: Prepare Your Server

1. Choose a Hosting Provider:
   First, you need to choose a reliable VPS or dedicated server provider that supports AlmaLinux 8. Popular providers include DigitalOcean, Linode, AWS, and Vultr. Ensure the server meets the following minimum requirements for cPanel/WHM installation:

   • 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended)
   • 20 GB disk space (40 GB recommended)
   • 1 IP address (static)

2. Access Your Server via SSH:
   Use SSH to connect to your server. Open your terminal and run:

   bash

    

   ssh root@your_server_ip

   Replace your_server_ip with the IP address of your server. You’ll need the root password or SSH key to log in.

Step 2: Install AlmaLinux 8 on Your Server

If AlmaLinux 8 is not already installed on your server, follow these steps to install it:

1. Download AlmaLinux 8 ISO:
   Visit the official AlmaLinux website (https://almalinux.org) and download the latest stable ISO for your server’s architecture.

2. Create a Bootable USB or Mount the ISO (For VPS Users):
   For a physical server, create a bootable USB with the ISO. For VPS users, use the VPS provider's control panel to mount the ISO directly.

3. Install AlmaLinux 8:
   Boot from the USB or mount the ISO, then follow the on-screen instructions to install AlmaLinux 8. Choose your language, set the time zone, and configure your network settings. After installation, reboot the server and remove the installation media.

Step 3: Update AlmaLinux 8

Before installing cPanel/WHM, make sure your AlmaLinux 8 installation is fully updated:

1. Run the following commands to update your system:
   bash

    

   sudo dnf update -y sudo dnf upgrade -y
2. Reboot your server to apply the updates:
   bash

    

   sudo reboot

Step 4: Install cPanel/WHM on AlmaLinux 8

Now that AlmaLinux 8 is ready, you can install cPanel & WHM:

1. Download the cPanel Installer:
   Run the following command to download the cPanel installation script:

   bash

    

   curl -o latest -L https://securedownloads.cpanel.net/latest

2. Run the Installation Script:
   Execute the installation script with the following command:

   bash

    

   sh latest

   This will begin the installation process, which may take some time (about 30-60 minutes, depending on your server's performance and internet speed).

3. Wait for the Installation to Complete:
   Once the installation is complete, you will see a message indicating that cPanel & WHM has been installed successfully.

Step 5: Access WHM

1. Log in to WHM:
   After installation, WHM is accessible via your server's IP address at port 2087. For example:

    

   https://your_server_ip:2087

   Replace your_server_ip with your actual server IP.

2. Set Up WHM:

   • You’ll be prompted to log in using the root username and the password you set during the cPanel installation.
   • Follow the on-screen setup wizard to configure your server settings, including nameservers, contact email, and other server preferences.

Step 6: Secure Your Server

1. Configure Firewall:
   It’s important to secure your server by configuring a firewall. AlmaLinux 8 uses firewalld by default:

   bash

    

   sudo systemctl start firewalld sudo systemctl enable firewalld sudo firewall-cmd --zone=public --add-port=2087/tcp --permanent sudo firewall-cmd --reload

   This opens the necessary port for WHM access (2087).

2. Install and Configure SSL:
   You’ll also want to install an SSL certificate for secure access. WHM offers AutoSSL to provide free SSL certificates for domains hosted on your server. Ensure AutoSSL is enabled under WHM > SSL/TLS > Manage AutoSSL.

Conclusion

Installing AlmaLinux 8 with WHM is a great solution for web hosting management. With the right configuration, you’ll be able to create and manage cPanel accounts, host multiple websites, and offer web hosting services efficiently. By following the steps above, you’ll have a fully functional and secure server ready for hosting.