How to Install cPanel on AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux Server (2026 Guide)

In this guide we’ll show you how to install cPanel & WHM on a modern Linux server using supported operating systems such as AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux. cPanel is one of the most widely used hosting control panels, allowing you to manage websites, email, databases and server security in one place.

Important Before You Start

cPanel must be installed on a clean operating system. Do not install it on a server that already has a web stack, database system, or hosting panel installed.

Server Requirements (2026 Recommended)

• Minimum 2 CPU cores
• Minimum 4GB RAM (8GB+ recommended)
• 40GB+ SSD storage (100GB+ recommended for production)
• Fresh operating system install
• Static IP address

Step 1: Connect via SSH

Use an SSH client such as PuTTY or Terminal to connect to your server.

ssh root@YOUR_SERVER_IP

Once logged in, update your system:

dnf update -y

Step 2: Set Hostname

cPanel requires a fully qualified domain name (FQDN):

hostnamectl set-hostname server1.yourdomain.com

Step 3: Install Required Packages

Install basic dependencies:

dnf install -y curl perl

Step 4: Install cPanel & WHM

Run the official installation script:

cd /home && curl -o latest -L https://securedownloads.cpanel.net/latest && sh latest

Installation may take 30–60 minutes depending on your server performance.

Step 5: Access WHM

Once installed, open your browser and go to:

https://YOUR_SERVER_IP:2087

Login using:

• Username: root
• Password: your server root password

Step 6: Initial Setup Wizard

• Accept license agreement
• Configure networking settings
• Set hostname and resolver DNS
• Configure IP addresses
• Set up nameservers
• Enable services (mail, FTP, database)
• Configure disk quotas

Step 7: Security Setup (Highly Recommended)

After installation, secure your server immediately:

• Enable brute force protection (cPHulk)
• Enable firewall protection
• Enable ModSecurity (Web Application Firewall)
• Disable password-based SSH login (use SSH keys)
• Enable automatic updates

Important Notes

• CentOS is no longer recommended for new cPanel installations
• Use AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux instead
• Never disable firewall protection permanently
• Always use a clean server install

Summary

Installing cPanel on a modern Linux server is straightforward when using supported operating systems like AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux. Once installed, you can manage hosting, email, DNS, and security through a simple web interface.