What is WHM/cPanel?

cPanel is one of the most widely used hosting control panels worldwide. It simplifies web hosting management with its user-friendly interface and a wide range of features, making it easier to manage websites, databases, emails, and domain names.

WHM (Web Host Manager) is a management tool designed for server administrators of cPanel. With WHM, you can create multiple cPanel accounts, manage server resources, and offer customized hosting packages.

WHM/cPanel Supported Operating Systems

Currently, WHM/cPanel only supports AlmaLinux 8 and AlmaLinux 9 versions. In the past, versions like CentOS 7 and CloudLinux 7 were supported, but now only AlmaLinux can be used for new licenses.

Previously acquired WHM/cPanel licenses can be used to install on older systems, but this is not recommended. Supported versions should always be used for new installations.

WHM/cPanel Installation Requirements

A clean installation of AlmaLinux 8 or 9 server
Root (administrator) access
At least 1 GB of RAM (2 GB or more recommended)
Static IP address
License key (or trial license)

Supported Operating Systems

As of 2025, WHM/cPanel officially supports only the following operating systems:

AlmaLinux 8
AlmaLinux 9
Rocky Linux 8
Rocky Linux 9
CloudLinux 8
CloudLinux 9

Note for Older Versions: WHM/cPanel can be installed on older systems like CentOS 7, but its use is not recommended as official support has ended. AlmaLinux should be preferred for new server installations.

WHM/cPanel Installation Steps (AlmaLinux 8/9 Example)

Here are the steps you need to follow for a complete WHM/cPanel installation:

1. Update the Server

sudo dnf update

With this command, we are pulling all the packages on the server to the latest version.

2. Hostname Configuration

Setting the correct hostname (server name) on a server is mandatory for WHM/cPanel.

sudo hostnamectl set-hostname server.example.com
hostnamectl

The hostname must be in FQDN format (e.g., server.domain.com).

3. Install the Perl Package

Perl libraries are required for cPanel installation.

sudo yum install perl

4. Download and Start the Installation Script

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

The installation process may take an average of 30-45 minutes. It may vary depending on the connection and server performance.

5. First Login to WHM

After the installation is complete, you can connect from your browser in the following format:

https://YOURIPADDRESS:2087

Here, you log in with the root username and root password.

When WHM first opens, you will be asked to complete the license information and basic settings.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Is WHM/cPanel licensed?

Yes, you must have a valid license to use WHM/cPanel. A 15-day trial license is provided.

Can I install cPanel on CentOS 7?

Yes, but CentOS 7 is no longer supported. Therefore, it is recommended that you switch to supported distributions such as AlmaLinux 8/9.

What settings should be made after installation?

Hostname and Resolver settings should be configured.
DNS Zone and Nameserver settings should be configured.
Basic settings of Exim (mail server) should be reviewed.

How long does the installation take?

It takes between 30-45 minutes depending on server resources.

What should be considered during WHM/cPanel installation?

No other control panel should be installed on the server beforehand.
A minimum of 1 GB of RAM and 20 GB of disk space is required (2 GB+ RAM is recommended in practice).

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