How to Install WordPress in Minutes on Shared Hosting with Softaculous

Setting up a WordPress site should be simple, but if you’ve ever tried to do it manually, you know it can feel overwhelming fast.

From creating databases to uploading files via FTP, even the smallest mistake can leave you stuck with cryptic errors or a broken site. For beginners and even experienced users, it’s frustrating when you just want to get your website live quickly and focus on building content.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to install WordPress using Softaculous, step by step, so you can launch your website fast and confidently. We’ve also included a full video tutorial to walk you through every click.

Let’s get started.

Why Use Softaculous to Install WordPress?

If you’ve ever Googled how to install WordPress manually, you know it involves multiple steps like downloading WordPress, creating a database, configuring files, and more. While that’s a solid learning experience, it’s not ideal when you want to get your website live quickly.

That’s where Softaculous WordPress installation comes in:

• One-click setup: Install WordPress in minutes with minimal input.
• Automatic database creation: No need to manually set up MySQL databases.
• Fewer errors: Avoid common mistakes like file misplacement or wrong permissions.
• Easy access: Most shared hosting providers like Bluehost, Hostinger, and SiteGround include Softaculous in their cPanel.

In short, if speed and simplicity matter to you, Softaculous is the way to go.

What You Need Before Installing

Before we jump into the step-by-step process, make sure you have these ready:

1. A Shared Hosting Account
   Choose a reliable hosting provider that offers cPanel and includes Softaculous (e.g., Hostinger, A2 Hosting, or Bluehost).
   
2. A Registered Domain Name
   Most hosting plans let you register a domain during sign-up. If you haven’t yet, services like Namecheap and GoDaddy are great options.
   
3. Your Hosting Login Details
   Keep your cPanel login handy; you’ll need it to access Softaculous.

That’s it! Now you’re ready to start.

Steps to Install WordPress Using Softaculous

Ready to get your WordPress site live in minutes? We’ve made this process as simple as possible! 

Check out our full step-by-step video tutorial below, where we guide you through the entire WordPress installation on shared hosting using Softaculous.

Or, follow the clear written steps below to get your site live in minutes.

1. Log in to your cPanel

First, log in to your hosting account and head over to the cPanel dashboard. You’ll usually find a link in your welcome email or in your hosting account area.

2. Open the WordPress Installer

Most shared hosting providers include a one-click installer. In this case, look for “WordPress Manager by Softaculous” under the Software section.

Click on it to open the installation screen. This is the dashboard that makes it super easy to install WordPress without any manual setup.

3. Set Up Your WordPress Installation

Now it’s time to configure the basics. You’ll see a form with the following fields:

• Choose Installation URL:
  Select the domain where you want WordPress installed. If you’re installing WordPress on your root domain (e.g., yoursite.com), make sure the directory field is left blank. If you’re setting up a subfolder (e.g., yoursite.com/blog), specify it here.
  
• Site Name and Description:
  Enter your site title and tagline. Don’t worry, you can change these later in the WordPress dashboard.
  
• Admin Username, Password & Email:
  Create a strong username and password (avoid “admin” or other predictable usernames for security). Enter your admin email address, where you’ll receive WordPress notifications.

4. Customize Plugin Options

Before you hit Install, you may see options to pre-install some plugins. While these can be convenient, it’s often better to start with a clean setup and install only the plugins you really need later.

For trusted plugin recommendations, check out our curated list.

5. Review and Install

Take a moment to review all your settings. Once everything looks good, click the Install button.

Softaculous will now work its magic. It usually takes just a couple of minutes to complete the installation.

🎉 Congrats! Your WordPress site is now live.

Want to learn the manual method too? Check out our full guide on how to install WordPress manually here.

What’s Next After Installation?

Getting WordPress installed is just the first step. Here’s what we recommend doing next:

• Log in to Your Dashboard: Access your site’s backend at yourdomain.com/wp-admin using the credentials you set up.
  
• Install Essential Plugins: Start with security, backups, SEO, and caching for performance. You can also check recommended plugins here.
  
• Choose a Theme: Pick a theme that matches your brand.
  
• Secure Your Site: Change the default login URL, set strong passwords, and consider adding two-factor authentication.
  
• Optimize for SEO: Configure permalinks, add meta descriptions, and submit your site to Google Search Console.
  

Common Questions About Softaculous WordPress Installation

Q: Is Softaculous free?
Yes, if your hosting provider includes it in your plan (which most shared hosting providers do).

Q: Can I install WordPress on multiple domains?
Absolutely. Just repeat the installation steps for each domain.

Q: What if I don’t see Softaculous in cPanel?
Some budget hosts may not offer it. If that’s the case, you can still install WordPress manually using FTP and a MySQL database.

Q: Is Softaculous safe to use?
Yes. It’s widely trusted and maintained regularly to ensure security and compatibility with the latest WordPress versions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the fastest way to set up WordPress on shared hosting, using Softaculous is hands-down the easiest route. Just a few clicks, and your site is live.

Here at Codex Digest, we love making WordPress accessible for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned site owners. Have questions or need more help? Drop your comments below or check out our other WordPress tutorials and reviews to keep leveling up your site-building skills.

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