Install ExpressionEngine Print

Combining a thriving developer community with best-in-class support, ExpressionEngine is mission control for your website’s content.  ExpressionEngine is a popular alternative to WordPress.

Phase 1: Create the Database

ExpressionEngine needs a blank MySQL/MariaDB database to store site data.

 

Phase 2: Download & Upload ExpressionEngine

1. Go to the official ExpressionEngine download page and download the latest zip file.

2. In cPanel, open File Manager (under the Files section).

3. Navigate to your site's root directory:

   • Primary domain: public_html

   • Subdomain or Addon Domain: public_html/yourfolder

4. Click Upload at the top bar and upload the ExpressionEngine .zip file.

5. Once uploaded, select the .zip file in File Manager and click Extract.

Phase 3: Set Up File Permissions

ExpressionEngine requires write access to specific directories during installation.

In File Manager, ensure the following folders have 755 permissions:

• system/ee/

• system/user/config/config.php

• system/user/cache/

• system/user/templates/

• images/ (and subdirectories like uploads/, avatars/)

• themes/ee/

• themes/user/

(To change permissions in cPanel File Manager: right-click a folder/file -> Change Permissions -> check the appropriate boxes).

Phase 4: Run the Installation Wizard

1. Open your web browser and navigate to your site's admin URL:

   [https://yourdomain.com/admin.php]

2. The installation wizard will run a pre-flight check. Click Click here to install a brand new copy of ExpressionEngine.

3. Accept the Terms & Conditions.

4. Enter your Database Details:

   • SQL Server Address: localhost

   • SQL Username: The database user created in Phase 1

   • SQL Password: The password set in Phase 1

   • SQL Database Name: The database name created in Phase 1

5. Set up your Admin Account credentials (username, password, and email).

6. Click Install ExpressionEngine.

Phase 5: Post-Install Cleanup (Crucial for Security)

After the wizard confirms success, you must delete the installer directory before accessing the control panel:

1. Return to cPanel File Manager.

2. Open the system/ee/ folder.

3. Delete the installer folder completely.

4. Access your control panel at [https://yourdomain.com/admin.php]