Knowledge Base

Installing CloudLinux

CloudLinux is a specialized operating system designed for Linux-based servers. It provides server administrators with more control and security, making it easier to manage multi-user hosting environments efficiently. Installing and removing CloudLinux is a crucial process for server administrators. In this article, I will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing and removing CloudLinux.

Installing CloudLinux

Before installing CloudLinux, make sure your server has an appropriate CPU and memory capacity. Also, it's essential to back up your existing operating system on the server since CloudLinux installation should not be performed on top of the existing OS.

1. Accept the Licensing Agreement: Before installing CloudLinux, you need to purchase a license from the CloudLinux website or download the free trial version. After obtaining your license or downloading the trial version, accept the license agreement.

2. Prepare CloudLinux Installation Media: Write the CloudLinux installation media to a USB drive or CD or use it in a virtual environment.

3. Start Your Server: Insert the installation media into your server's CD drive or USB port and boot your server.

4. Initiate the Installation: When the server boots, select the appropriate boot device using the BIOS or UEFI menu by using the right key combination to initiate the CloudLinux installation.

5. Follow the Installation Wizard: The CloudLinux installation wizard will start and prompt you to make basic settings. Set your language, keyboard layout, and region.

6. Enter the License Key: Enter your CloudLinux license key or required information to activate your license or trial version.

7. Disk Partitioning: Complete the disk partitioning process. Specify the disk space allocated for installing CloudLinux.

8. Complete the Installation: Follow the prompts given by the installation wizard. Once the CloudLinux installation is complete, your server will reboot.

9. Initial Login: When your server reboots, you can open your first session on the CloudLinux operating system.

Removing CloudLinux

Removing CloudLinux might be necessary when you want to revert to your previous operating system. However, the process of removing CloudLinux can be quite complex and risky, so it should be done carefully. Here are the steps to remove CloudLinux:

1. Backup Data: First and foremost, back up all the data on your server. Removing CloudLinux carries a risk of data loss, so make sure to safeguard all essential data.

2. Prepare the Existing OS: Before removing CloudLinux, prepare your server's current operating system properly. For example, if you plan to return to CentOS, prepare the CentOS installation media.

3. Uninstall CloudLinux Packages: Remove CloudLinux packages and dependencies. This can be done using the "yum" or "rpm" commands. However, exercise caution and avoid removing packages that could break the system instead of uninstalling the necessary ones.

4. Update GRUB Settings: If you encounter boot-related issues on your server, update the GRUB settings appropriately.

5. Reboot the Server: After removing CloudLinux, reboot your server and check if your current operating system is loading correctly.

6. Restore Data: If data loss occurred, restore the backed-up data to your server.

7. Perform Final Checks: Finally, perform the last checks to ensure your server is running correctly and fix any missing packages or settings if needed.

The installation and removal of CloudLinux can be complex and carry the risk of making mistakes, so thorough research and, if necessary, professional assistance should be sought before performing these procedures. Additionally, keep in mind that your server is a critical resource, so exercise caution throughout the process.