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Step-by-step guides

How do I…?

31 guides written for people who have never used cPanel. Each one tells you exactly where to click, what to type and what you should see on screen. Pick a topic or search below.

Getting started

Log in and find your way around

01Log in to your Client Area and open cPanelEverything starts here: your Client Area for billing and services, and cPanel for your website and email.5 steps · 2 minutes
Where
my.hosteran.com
Time
2 minutes
You need
The email address and password you used when you ordered
  1. 1

    Open the Client Area

    In your browser, go to my.hosteran.com. Bookmark this page, because you'll use it often.

  2. 2

    Sign in

    Enter the email address you used when you ordered, then your password, and click Login. Forgotten it? Click Forgotten your password? under the button and follow the link we email you.

  3. 3

    Open your hosting service

    Once you're in, open the list of your services and click the hosting plan that belongs to your website (for example Business – yourbusiness.ie).

  4. 4

    Launch cPanel

    On the service page, click the button to log in to cPanel. It opens in a new tab and signs you in automatically, so you don't need a separate password.

  5. 5

    Find your way around cPanel

    The cPanel home page is a list of tools grouped into sections: Email, Files, Databases, Domains, Security, Software and so on. The quickest way to find any tool is the Search Tools box at the top: type “email”, “backup” or “PHP” and click the result.

cPanel home page with the Search Tools box highlighted
The cPanel home page. Type any tool name in Search Tools (top right).
Good to know
  • Never share your Client Area password. Our team will never ask you for it by email or phone.
  • Turn on two-factor authentication in cPanel (Security → Two-Factor Authentication) for extra protection.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

02Open a support ticketThe fastest way to get help with a specific service, because the ticket is linked to your account.5 steps · 3 minutes
Where
my.hosteran.com → Support
Time
3 minutes
You need
A short description of the problem and, if possible, a screenshot
  1. 1

    Sign in to the Client Area

    Go to my.hosteran.com and sign in with the account that owns the service.

  2. 2

    Open Support

    Open the support section and choose to open a new ticket.

  3. 3

    Pick the right service

    Select the hosting plan or domain the problem is about. This lets us check the right account straight away.

  4. 4

    Describe the problem clearly

    Write what you were trying to do, what happened instead and when it started. Include the exact error message and the web address (URL) where it appears.

  5. 5

    Attach a screenshot and send

    A screenshot saves a lot of back-and-forth. On Windows press Windows + Shift + S; on a Mac press Cmd + Shift + 4. Attach it, then submit the ticket. You'll get our reply by email and in the Client Area.

Good to know
  • Please never send passwords in a ticket. If we need access, we'll tell you the safest way.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Email

Create mailboxes and connect them to your devices

03Create an email address (e.g. hello@yourbusiness.ie)Create as many professional mailboxes as your plan allows, in less than two minutes.6 steps · 2 minutes
Where
cPanel → Email → Email Accounts
Time
2 minutes
You need
Your domain already pointing to Hosteran
  1. 1

    Open Email Accounts

    Log in to cPanel (see Log in and open cPanel). In the Email section, click Email Accounts.

  2. 2

    Click “+ Create”

    On the right, click the blue + Create button.

  3. 3

    Choose the domain and the name

    If you have more than one domain, pick the right one from the Domain list. In Username type the part before the @, for example hello, info or john.

  4. 4

    Set a strong password

    Click Generate for a strong password, or type your own (at least 12 characters, mixing letters, numbers and symbols). Copy it somewhere safe now: you'll need it on your phone and computer.

  5. 5

    Choose the storage

    Under Storage Space you can leave the default or set a limit. Unlimited uses your plan's total storage.

  6. 6

    Create the mailbox

    Click + Create at the bottom. You'll see a green message and the new address in the list. You can read your email straight away by clicking Check Email next to it (webmail).

cPanel home page with Email Accounts highlighted
Step 1: click Email Accounts in the Email section.
Email Accounts list with the Create button highlighted
Step 2: click the blue + Create button.
Create an Email Account form with Username and Generate highlighted
Steps 3–4: type the name before the @ and click Generate for a strong password.
Good to know
  • Use a shared address such as info@ or hello@ on your website, and personal addresses for staff.
  • If you'd rather receive mail in an existing inbox, create a forwarder instead of a mailbox.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

04Find your email settings (incoming and outgoing servers)The exact server names and ports to use in any email app.4 steps · 1 minute
Where
cPanel → Email → Email Accounts → Connect Devices
Time
1 minute
  1. 1

    Open Email Accounts

    In cPanel, open Email → Email Accounts.

  2. 2

    Click “Connect Devices”

    Find your address in the list and click Connect Devices next to it.

  3. 3

    Read the secure settings

    Look at the box Secure SSL/TLS Settings (Recommended). Normally it shows:
    • Username: your full email address
    • Incoming server: mail.yourbusiness.ie, IMAP port 993 (POP3 port 995)
    • Outgoing server (SMTP): mail.yourbusiness.ie, port 465
    • IMAP, POP3 and SMTP all require authentication (your email password).

  4. 4

    Use exactly these values

    Always copy the values shown on your Connect Devices page: they are the correct ones for your account. Replace yourbusiness.ie with your own domain.

Email Accounts list with Connect Devices highlighted
Click Connect Devices next to your address.
Mail Client Manual Settings with the secure settings highlighted
Copy the values in Secure SSL/TLS Settings.
Good to know
  • Choose IMAP, not POP3, if you read email on more than one device. IMAP keeps everything in sync.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

05Add your email to an iPhone or iPadSet up your Hosteran mailbox in the built-in Mail app.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
iPhone Settings → Mail → Accounts
Time
5 minutes
You need
Your email address, its password and the settings from Connect Devices
  1. 1

    Open Settings

    On your iPhone or iPad, open Settings, scroll down and tap Mail, then Accounts, then Add Account.

  2. 2

    Choose “Other”

    At the bottom of the list (below iCloud, Google, Outlook…) tap Other, then Add Mail Account.

  3. 3

    Enter your details

    Name: the name people will see (e.g. John Murphy). Email: your full address. Password: your email password. Description: anything, e.g. “Work”. Tap Next.

  4. 4

    Choose IMAP and fill in the servers

    Make sure IMAP is selected at the top. Under Incoming Mail Server and Outgoing Mail Server enter: Host Name mail.yourbusiness.ie, User Name your full email address, and your password (yes, in both boxes). Tap Next.

  5. 5

    Save

    The iPhone checks the settings (this can take up to a minute). When the ticks appear, make sure Mail is switched on and tap Save. Open the Mail app: your new mailbox is there.

Good to know
  • “Cannot verify server identity”? Check the host name is exactly mail. followed by your domain, then tap Continue only if the certificate shows your domain or the Hosteran server name.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

06Add your email to an Android phone (Gmail app)Read your business email in the Gmail app that comes with most Android phones.6 steps · 5 minutes
Where
Gmail app → Add another account
Time
5 minutes
You need
Your email address, password and settings
  1. 1

    Open the Gmail app

    Tap your profile picture (top right), then Add another account.

  2. 2

    Choose “Other”

    From the list, tap Other. Enter your full email address and tap Manual setup, then choose Personal (IMAP).

  3. 3

    Enter your password

    Type your email password and tap Next.

  4. 4

    Incoming server settings

    Username: your full email address. Server: mail.yourbusiness.ie. Tap Next. If asked, choose security type SSL/TLS and port 993.

  5. 5

    Outgoing server settings

    Keep Require sign-in on. Username: your full email address. SMTP server: mail.yourbusiness.ie, security SSL/TLS, port 465. Tap Next.

  6. 6

    Finish

    Choose how often to sync (every 15 minutes is fine), give the account a name and tap Next. Your email appears in Gmail; switch between accounts by tapping your profile picture.

Good to know
  • Menus differ slightly between Android brands, but the values are always the same.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

07Add your email to Outlook on a computerConnect your mailbox to Outlook for Windows or Mac.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
Outlook → File → Add Account
Time
5 minutes
You need
Your email address, password and settings
  1. 1

    Start adding an account

    In Outlook, click File (top left), then Add Account. In the new Outlook, open Settings → Accounts → Add account. On a Mac: Outlook → Settings → Accounts → +.

  2. 2

    Type your address

    Enter your full email address. Click Advanced options, tick Let me set up my account manually and click Connect.

  3. 3

    Choose IMAP

    When asked for the account type, choose IMAP.

  4. 4

    Enter the servers

    Incoming mail: server mail.yourbusiness.ie, port 993, encryption SSL/TLS. Outgoing mail: server mail.yourbusiness.ie, port 465, encryption SSL/TLS. Click Next.

  5. 5

    Enter the password and connect

    Type your email password and click Connect. When Outlook says the account was added, click Done.

Good to know
  • If Outlook keeps asking for the password, check that the username is the full email address, not just the part before @.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

08Read your email in a browser (webmail)Check email from any computer without setting anything up.4 steps · 1 minute
Where
yourbusiness.ie/webmail
Time
1 minute
You need
Your email address and password
  1. 1

    Open webmail

    In any browser, go to https://yourbusiness.ie/webmail (use your own domain).

  2. 2

    Sign in

    Enter your full email address and its password, then click Log in.

  3. 3

    Choose the app

    The first time, you may be asked to choose a webmail app. Roundcube is the simplest. Tick the option to open it by default.

  4. 4

    Use it like any inbox

    Read, reply and send. You can also reach webmail from cPanel: Email Accounts → Check Email.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

09Forward email to another addressSend copies of messages for one address to another mailbox, e.g. your Gmail.5 steps · 2 minutes
Where
cPanel → Email → Forwarders
Time
2 minutes
  1. 1

    Open Forwarders

    In cPanel, go to the Email section and click Forwarders.

  2. 2

    Add a forwarder

    Click Add Forwarder.

  3. 3

    Address to forward

    Type the address that should be forwarded (e.g. sales) and choose the domain.

  4. 4

    Destination

    Choose Forward to Email Address and type where it should go, e.g. john@gmail.com.

  5. 5

    Save

    Click Add Forwarder. Send a test message to check it arrives.

cPanel Add a New Forwarder form
Type the address, choose Forward to Email Address, enter the destination and click Add Forwarder.
Good to know
  • Forwarding to Gmail or Outlook.com can sometimes land in spam. Connecting the mailbox with IMAP is more reliable.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

10Change or reset an email passwordSet a new password for any mailbox, even if you've forgotten the old one.5 steps · 2 minutes
Where
cPanel → Email → Email Accounts → Manage
Time
2 minutes
  1. 1

    Open Email Accounts

    In cPanel, open Email → Email Accounts.

  2. 2

    Click “Manage”

    Next to the address, click Manage.

  3. 3

    Set the new password

    Under Security, type a new password (or click Generate) and copy it.

  4. 4

    Save

    Scroll down and click Update Email Settings.

  5. 5

    Update your devices

    Your phone and computer will now ask for the new password. Enter it there too, otherwise email stops arriving on those devices.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Domains

Register, add and redirect domains

11Register a new domainCheck if a name is free and register it in a few clicks.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
hosteran.com/domain-registration
Time
5 minutes
You need
For a .ie: one document proving your connection to Ireland
  1. 1

    Search for the name

    Go to our domain registration page and type the name you'd like, e.g. murphysbakery.

  2. 2

    Choose the extension

    Pick the extension (.ie, .com, .eu…) from the results and add it to the basket.

  3. 3

    Check out

    Sign in to your Client Area account (or create one) and complete the order.

  4. 4

    For .ie domains: send one document

    The .ie registry needs proof of your connection to Ireland, for example a CRO number for a company or an Irish passport for a person. Read our full guide: How to register a .ie domain.

  5. 5

    Wait for activation

    Most domains are active within minutes. A .ie is usually validated within three hours on working days.

Good to know
  • Register the matching .com too, so nobody else can use your name.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

12Add another domain or subdomain to your hostingHost a second website, or create a subdomain such as shop.yourbusiness.ie.5 steps · 3 minutes
Where
cPanel → Domains → Domains
Time
3 minutes
You need
The new domain pointing to Hosteran's nameservers
  1. 1

    Open Domains

    In cPanel, in the Domains section, click Domains.

  2. 2

    Click “Create A New Domain”

    Click the blue Create A New Domain button.

  3. 3

    Type the domain

    Enter the domain (e.g. secondbusiness.ie) or a subdomain (e.g. shop.yourbusiness.ie).

  4. 4

    Choose the folder

    Untick Share document root if this is a separate website. cPanel suggests a folder name for its files, which you can keep.

  5. 5

    Submit

    Click Submit. The domain now appears in the list and its folder is ready in File Manager.

cPanel Domains list with Create A New Domain highlighted
Click Create A New Domain.
cPanel Create a New Domain form
Type the domain, untick Share document root for a separate website, then click Submit.
Good to know
  • The number of websites you can add depends on your plan: 1 on Starter, 5 on Business, 10 on Pro.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

13Redirect a domain or page to another addressSend visitors from an old address to a new one.5 steps · 2 minutes
Where
cPanel → Domains → Redirects
Time
2 minutes
  1. 1

    Open Redirects

    In cPanel, in the Domains section, click Redirects.

  2. 2

    Choose the type

    Choose Permanent (301). This is the right choice for search engines when an address has moved for good.

  3. 3

    Choose what to redirect

    Pick the domain from the list. Leave the box after the slash empty to redirect the whole domain, or type a page, e.g. old-page.

  4. 4

    Type the destination

    In Redirects to, type the full new address, e.g. https://yourbusiness.ie/new-page/.

  5. 5

    Add it

    Choose Redirect with or without www. and click Add.

cPanel Add Redirect form
Choose the domain, type the old page after the slash and the full new address in Redirects to.
Good to know
  • On a WordPress site, you can also manage redirects inside WordPress with an SEO plugin.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

DNS

Point your domain and edit records

14Point your domain to Hosteran (nameservers)If your domain is registered somewhere else, change its nameservers so your website and email work with Hosteran.5 steps · 10 minutes + waiting time
Where
At the company where your domain is registered
Time
10 minutes + waiting time
You need
Access to your domain registrar's account
  1. 1

    Log in where the domain is registered

    Sign in to the company you bought the domain from (for example Blacknight, GoDaddy or Namecheap). If the domain is with Hosteran, nameservers are already set for you.

  2. 2

    Open the domain's DNS or nameserver settings

    Find your domain in the list and look for Nameservers, DNS or Manage DNS. Choose the option to use custom nameservers.

  3. 3

    Replace the nameservers

    Delete the existing values and enter the four Hosteran nameservers:
    ns1.hosteran.com
    ns2.hosteran.com
    ns3.hosteran.com
    ns4.hosteran.com

  4. 4

    Save

    Save the change. Check the spelling carefully: one wrong letter stops the domain working.

  5. 5

    Wait for the change to spread

    It usually takes a few hours, and can take up to 24–48 hours, for every network in the world to see the change. During that time some people may still see the old site.

Good to know
  • Before you switch, make sure your website files and email accounts are already set up at Hosteran, so nothing goes offline.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

15Add or change a DNS record (A, CNAME, MX, TXT)Needed to verify Google or Microsoft 365, connect a shop platform or set up email security.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
cPanel → Domains → Zone Editor
Time
5 minutes
You need
The record values from the service you're connecting
  1. 1

    Open Zone Editor

    In cPanel, in the Domains section, click Zone Editor.

  2. 2

    Click “Manage”

    Next to your domain, click Manage. You'll see all the records for the domain.

  3. 3

    Add the record

    Click + Add Record (the arrow next to it lets you choose the type), then choose the type you were given: A, CNAME, MX or TXT.

  4. 4

    Fill in the values exactly

    Name: what the service tells you (for the domain itself use yourbusiness.ie.). TTL: leave the default. Record: paste the value exactly, with no extra spaces. Example for a Google verification: type TXT, value google-site-verification=….

  5. 5

    Save and check

    Click Save Record. Most changes work within minutes, but allow up to a few hours before trying the verification again.

cPanel Zone Editor with Manage highlighted
Click Manage next to your domain to see and add records.
Good to know
  • Don't delete MX records unless you're moving your email elsewhere. Without them, email stops arriving.
  • To check email security records, open Email → Email Deliverability. It shows whether SPF and DKIM are correct and can repair them.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Website & hosting

Publish a website and move to Hosteran

16Upload a simple website (HTML)Put your website files live in the right folder.5 steps · 10 minutes
Where
cPanel → Files → File Manager
Time
10 minutes
You need
Your website files, with the home page called index.html
  1. 1

    Prepare a ZIP file

    Put all your website files in one ZIP file. On Windows: select the files, right-click, Send to → Compressed (zipped) folder. Your home page must be called index.html.

  2. 2

    Open File Manager

    In cPanel, in the Files section, click File Manager.

  3. 3

    Go to public_html

    In the left column, click public_html. This is the folder your main domain shows to visitors.

  4. 4

    Upload the ZIP

    Click Upload in the top toolbar, drag the ZIP into the window and wait for the green 100% bar. Then click Go Back to “/home/…/public_html”.

  5. 5

    Extract it

    Right-click the ZIP and choose Extract, then Extract Files. Delete the ZIP afterwards. Open your domain in a browser: your site is live.

cPanel File Manager with public_html and Upload highlighted
Click public_html on the left, then Upload in the toolbar.
Good to know
  • If you see the files listed instead of your site, the home page isn't named index.html or it's inside an extra folder. Move the files directly into public_html.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

17Move your website to Hosteran for freeWe move your website and email from your current host at no extra cost.5 steps · 5 minutes for you
Where
hosteran.com/contact
Time
5 minutes for you
You need
Access to your old hosting control panel
  1. 1

    Ask us for a migration

    Send us a message through the contact page or open a support ticket, saying which website you want to move.

  2. 2

    Share access safely

    We'll tell you the safest way to give us access to your old hosting. Don't send passwords by email.

  3. 3

    We copy everything

    We copy the website files, databases and email accounts to your Hosteran plan and check that everything works.

  4. 4

    Switch the domain

    When we confirm the copy is ready, change the nameservers (see Point your domain to Hosteran) or we'll do it for you if we manage the domain.

  5. 5

    Keep the old hosting for a few days

    Don't cancel the old hosting until we confirm the move is complete and your email works on the new server.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

WordPress

Install, update and protect WordPress

18Install WordPress in one click (Softaculous)A fresh WordPress website ready in about two minutes.6 steps · 3 minutes
Where
cPanel → Softaculous Apps Installer → WordPress
Time
3 minutes
You need
Your domain pointing to Hosteran
  1. 1

    Open Softaculous

    In cPanel, find the Softaculous Apps Installer section and click the WordPress icon.

  2. 2

    Click “Install Now”

    On the WordPress page, click the blue Install Now button.

  3. 3

    Choose the address

    Choose Protocol: https://. Choose Domain: your domain. In Directory: leave it empty, otherwise the site will be at yourbusiness.ie/wp instead of the main address.

  4. 4

    Name your site

    Under Site Settings, type the Site Name and a short Site Description. You can change both later.

  5. 5

    Create the administrator

    Under Admin Account, choose a username that is not “admin”, a strong password and your email address. Write them down.

  6. 6

    Install

    Choose the language, scroll down and click Install. After a minute you'll see two links: your website, and the admin area (yourbusiness.ie/wp-admin).

Softaculous WordPress install form
Choose https:// and your domain, leave In Directory empty, then fill in the admin account.
Good to know
  • If an old “Coming soon” or index.html file is in public_html, Softaculous will warn you. Delete it first or choose to overwrite.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

19Update WordPress safelyKeep WordPress, plugins and themes up to date without breaking your site.5 steps · 10 minutes
Where
yourbusiness.ie/wp-admin → Dashboard → Updates
Time
10 minutes
You need
Your WordPress admin login
  1. 1

    Take a backup first

    Before big updates, make a backup (see Download a full backup). Your plan also includes daily backups, kept for up to 30 days.

  2. 2

    Open Updates

    Log in to yourbusiness.ie/wp-admin. In the left menu, go to Dashboard → Updates.

  3. 3

    Update plugins and themes

    Tick the plugins, click Update Plugins, then do the same for themes. Wait for each one to finish.

  4. 4

    Update WordPress itself

    If a new WordPress version is listed, click Update to version ….

  5. 5

    Check your site

    Open your website in a private browser window and check the home page, a contact form and the shop, if you have one.

Good to know
  • If something breaks after an update, restore yesterday's version (see Restore from a backup) or contact us.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

20Protect your WordPress admin accountSimple steps that stop most break-in attempts.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
WordPress → Users → Profile
Time
5 minutes
  1. 1

    Use a strong, unique password

    In WordPress go to Users → Profile, click Set New Password and use a long password you don't use anywhere else.

  2. 2

    Don't use “admin” as the username

    If your username is admin, create a new administrator with another name, log in as the new user and delete the old one, giving its content to the new user.

  3. 3

    Remove users you don't need

    Under Users, remove old staff or developer accounts.

  4. 4

    Turn on two-factor authentication

    Use a security plugin that offers two-factor login, so a password alone isn't enough.

  5. 5

    Keep everything updated

    Most hacks use outdated plugins. Follow Update WordPress safely every month.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

SSL & security

The padlock and HTTPS

21Get the free SSL certificate (padlock)Every website on Hosteran gets a free SSL certificate automatically. Here's how to check it.4 steps · 2 minutes
Where
cPanel → Security → SSL/TLS Certificates → Status
Time
2 minutes
You need
Your domain pointing to Hosteran
  1. 1

    Open SSL/TLS Certificates

    In cPanel, in the Security section, click SSL/TLS Certificates, then click the Status tab at the top.

  2. 2

    Check the list

    Each domain should show AutoSSL Domain Validated and an expiry date. The certificate renews itself automatically before it expires, so you don't need to do anything.

  3. 3

    Missing a certificate?

    If a domain shows a red or yellow warning instead, check that it points to Hosteran (see nameservers) and wait a few hours. Still missing? Open a ticket and we'll issue it for you, free.

  4. 4

    Force HTTPS

    In Domains → Domains, switch Force HTTPS Redirect on for your domain, so visitors always use the secure address.

cPanel SSL/TLS Status with AutoSSL Domain Validated
A green padlock and AutoSSL Domain Validated means the certificate works and renews by itself.
Good to know
  • AutoSSL only works once the domain points to Hosteran. If you've just changed nameservers, wait a few hours: the certificate is then issued automatically.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Backups

Restore yesterday's version in minutes

22Restore your website from a backupEvery plan includes daily backups, kept for up to 30 days. Here's how to get yesterday's version back.6 steps · 5–15 minutes
Where
A support ticket, or cPanel → JetBackup 5
Time
5–15 minutes
You need
The date when the site was last working
  1. 1

    Decide what you need back

    Write down what is broken (the whole website, one file, the database or an email account) and the last date it was working.

  2. 2

    Easiest way: ask us

    Open a ticket with the date you want and what to restore (the whole website, the database or an email account). We restore it from the daily backups for you.

  3. 3

    Or do it yourself in JetBackup 5

    In cPanel, open JetBackup 5 and choose Full Account Backups (everything) or just File Backups, Database Backups or Email Backups. Pick a date when the site was still working, click Restore and confirm.

  4. 4

    If JetBackup shows a message instead of backups

    If you see a message instead of a list of dates, don't worry: your backups are still there. Open a ticket and we'll restore it for you.

  5. 5

    Restoring your own backup file

    If you have a backup you downloaded yourself (see the next guide), open Files → Backup in cPanel, choose the file under Restore a Home Directory Backup or Restore a MySQL Database and click Upload.

  6. 6

    Check the site

    Open your website in a private browser window and check it looks right.

Good to know
  • Restoring overwrites the current version. If you've made changes since, download a copy first.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

23Download a full backup to your computerKeep your own copy of your website, databases and email.6 steps · 5 minutes + waiting time
Where
cPanel → Files → Backup
Time
5 minutes + waiting time
  1. 1

    Open Backup

    In cPanel, in the Files section, click Backup (or type “backup” in Search Tools).

  2. 2

    Choose a full backup

    Under Full Backup, click Download a Full Account Backup.

  3. 3

    Choose where to save it

    Leave Backup Destination on Home Directory and choose to receive an email when it's ready.

  4. 4

    Generate it

    Click Generate Backup. Larger accounts can take a while; you'll get an email when it's finished.

  5. 5

    Download the file

    Go back to the Backup page. The new file appears under Backups Available for Download. Click it and save it somewhere safe, such as an external drive or cloud storage.

  6. 6

    Delete the copy on the server

    The backup file uses your hosting storage. After downloading, delete it from your home directory in File Manager.

cPanel Backup page
Click Download a Full Account Backup for everything, or Home Directory for files only.
Good to know
  • A full account backup is for keeping or moving your account. To get a single day back quickly, use the restore steps above.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Files & FTP

Upload and manage files

24Upload, edit and delete files (File Manager)Manage your website files in the browser, without extra software.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
cPanel → Files → File Manager
Time
5 minutes
  1. 1

    Open File Manager

    In cPanel, in the Files section, click File Manager.

  2. 2

    Open the right folder

    Your main website is in public_html. Extra domains have their own folders.

  3. 3

    Upload

    Click Upload and drag the files in. To upload a whole folder, ZIP it first and use Extract afterwards.

  4. 4

    Edit or rename

    Right-click a file to Edit, Rename, Copy or Move it.

  5. 5

    Delete carefully

    Select the file and click Delete. Deleted files go to the trash unless you tick Skip the trash.

cPanel File Manager with public_html and Upload highlighted
Your main website lives in public_html. Upload is in the top toolbar.
Good to know
  • To see hidden files such as .htaccess, click Settings (top right) and tick Show Hidden Files.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

25Create an FTP account and connect with FileZillaUseful for web designers who upload many files.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
cPanel → Files → FTP Accounts
Time
5 minutes
You need
FileZilla (free) installed on your computer
  1. 1

    Open FTP Accounts

    In cPanel, in the Files section, click FTP Accounts.

  2. 2

    Create the account

    Enter a Log In name, choose the domain, set a strong password and limit the Directory to the folder this person needs (e.g. public_html). Click Create FTP Account.

  3. 3

    Find the connection details

    In the list, click Configure FTP Client next to the account. You'll see the username, server and port.

  4. 4

    Connect in FileZilla

    Open FileZilla. Enter Host: the server shown (e.g. ftp.yourbusiness.ie), Username: the full FTP username (with @yourbusiness.ie), Password, Port: 21, and click Quickconnect. Accept the certificate if asked.

  5. 5

    Transfer files

    Your computer is on the left, the server on the right. Drag files from left to right to upload.

cPanel Add FTP Account form
Choose a Log In name and use Password Generator for a strong password.
Good to know
  • Delete FTP accounts you no longer need, for example after a web designer has finished.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Databases & PHP

MySQL, phpMyAdmin and PHP versions

26Create a MySQL database and userNeeded when you install a website by hand or move one from another host.5 steps · 3 minutes
Where
cPanel → Databases → Database Wizard
Time
3 minutes
  1. 1

    Open the wizard

    In cPanel, in the Databases section, click Database Wizard.

  2. 2

    Name the database

    Type a name (e.g. shop) and click Next Step. cPanel adds your account prefix, so the full name looks like account_shop.

  3. 3

    Create a user

    Type a username and a strong password (use Password Generator), copy both, and click Create User.

  4. 4

    Give permissions

    Tick ALL PRIVILEGES and click Next Step.

  5. 5

    Note the details

    Write down the database name, username and password. Your website's configuration file needs them, with host localhost.

cPanel Database Wizard step 1
Type the name after the prefix and click Next Step.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

27Import a database with phpMyAdminLoad a .sql backup into a database.5 steps · 5 minutes
Where
cPanel → Databases → phpMyAdmin
Time
5 minutes
You need
A .sql or .sql.zip file
  1. 1

    Open phpMyAdmin

    In cPanel, in the Databases section, click phpMyAdmin. It opens in a new tab.

  2. 2

    Select the database

    In the left column, click the database you want to import into.

  3. 3

    Open Import

    Click the Import tab at the top.

  4. 4

    Choose the file

    Click Choose File and select your .sql file. Leave the other options as they are.

  5. 5

    Import

    Scroll down and click Import (in some versions Go). A green message confirms it worked.

Good to know
  • Very large files can time out. Contact us and we'll import them for you.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

28Change the PHP versionChoose the PHP version your website needs.5 steps · 2 minutes
Where
cPanel → Software → Select PHP Version
Time
2 minutes
  1. 1

    Open the PHP tool

    In cPanel, in the Software section, click Select PHP Version (if you see MultiPHP Manager instead, use that). In cPanel, type the tool name in the Search Tools box at the top of the page if you can't see it straight away.

  2. 2

    See the current version

    On the Account Global Settings tab, next to PHP version, a drop-down shows the version in use, e.g. native (8.2) (current).

  3. 3

    Choose the new version

    Open the list and choose the newest version your website and plugins support. WordPress shows its recommended version on wordpress.org/about/requirements.

  4. 4

    Save the change

    The new version is applied as soon as you pick it from the list (if a confirmation appears, confirm it). To change only one website, use the Per Domain Settings tab instead. (In MultiPHP Manager: tick your domain, choose the version on the right and click Apply.)

  5. 5

    Check your site

    Open your website and click around. If anything looks wrong, change back to the previous version and contact us.

cPanel PHP Selector
Pick the version from the drop-down. Per Domain Settings changes one website only.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

29Create a cron job (scheduled task)Run a script automatically, e.g. every hour.4 steps · 3 minutes
Where
cPanel → Advanced → Cron Jobs
Time
3 minutes
You need
The command your software tells you to run
  1. 1

    Open Cron Jobs

    In cPanel, in the Advanced section, click Cron Jobs.

  2. 2

    Choose how often

    Under Add New Cron Job, use Common Settings to pick a schedule such as Once Per Hour.

  3. 3

    Enter the command

    Paste the command provided by your software into Command.

  4. 4

    Add it

    Click Add New Cron Job. It appears in the list below, where you can edit or delete it.

cPanel Add New Cron Job form
Pick a schedule in Common Settings, paste the command and click Add New Cron Job.
Good to know
  • Don't run cron jobs more often than you need: every 15 minutes is enough for most websites.

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Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Troubleshooting

Quick checks when something isn't working

30My website isn't loadingWork through these checks before contacting us. Most problems are solved in the first three.6 steps · 5 minutes
Time
5 minutes
  1. 1

    Check from another device

    Open your site on your phone using mobile data (Wi-Fi off). If it works there, the problem is your computer or network: clear the browser cache or restart the router.

  2. 2

    Check the domain hasn't expired

    Sign in to the Client Area and check that the domain and hosting are active and paid.

  3. 3

    Did you just change nameservers?

    If you changed them in the last 24–48 hours, the change may still be spreading. See Point your domain to Hosteran.

  4. 4

    Look at the error message

    “Error establishing a database connection”: check the database details in your configuration file. “500 Internal Server Error”: often caused by a plugin or a .htaccess change. “403 Forbidden”: check the file permissions or that index.html/index.php exists.

  5. 5

    Restore a working version

    If it broke after an update or change, restore yesterday's backup (see Backups).

  6. 6

    Contact us

    Still down? Open a ticket with the exact error message and the time it started.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

31My email isn't sending or arrivingSimple checks for the most common email problems.6 steps · 5 minutes
Time
5 minutes
  1. 1

    Try webmail

    Log in to webmail. If email works there, the problem is the settings in your phone or Outlook: compare them with Connect Devices.

  2. 2

    Check the password

    If you recently changed the password, update it on every device.

  3. 3

    Check the mailbox isn't full

    In Email → Email Accounts, look at the storage bar. A full mailbox can't receive email.

  4. 4

    Check the spam folder

    Ask the sender to check their spam folder, and check yours too.

  5. 5

    Check Email Deliverability

    In cPanel, open Email → Email Deliverability. If a domain shows Problems Exist, click Manage next to it to see which record (SPF, DKIM or DMARC) needs fixing and the value cPanel suggests. When the Repair button is active, it fixes the record for you (only if your DNS is managed by Hosteran). Not sure? Open a ticket and we'll fix it.

  6. 6

    Contact us

    Still not working? Open a ticket with the address you sent from, the recipient, the time and any bounce message.

cPanel Email Deliverability list
Problems Exist means a record is missing. Click Manage to see which one.

Open this guide on its own page →

Stuck on a step? Open a ticket and tell us the step number.

Still need help?

Our Dublin team answers support tickets and email. Tell us what you were trying to do and we’ll walk you through it.

Open a ticketsupport@hosteran.com