# Installing Drush manually

> Download and set up Drush over SSH so you can manage your Drupal site's updates, backups and admin tasks from the command line.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/drupal/installing-drush-manually/

**Drush** is a command‑line shell and scripting interface for Drupal. It allows you to manage Drupal sites more efficiently by running commands for updates, backups, and administration tasks. On **ruachost.com**, you can install Drush manually if it is not already available through your hosting environment.

## Why Install Drush?

- Automate repetitive Drupal tasks.
- Manage modules and themes quickly.
- Run database updates and clear caches from the command line.
- Improve productivity for developers and site administrators.

## Steps to Install Drush Manually

### Step 1: Connect to Your Server

1. Log in to your hosting account at **ruachost.com**.
2. Access your server via **SSH** (Secure Shell).

### Step 2: Download Drush

1. Navigate to your desired installation directory (e.g., `/usr/local/share`).
2. Clone the Drush repository from GitHub:

   ```bash
   git clone https://github.com/drush-ops/drush.git
   ```
3. Move into the Drush directory:

   ```bash
   cd drush
   ```

### Step 3: Set Up Drush

1. Checkout the version compatible with your Drupal installation:

   ```bash
   git checkout 10.x
   ```

   *\
   (Replace* `10.x` *with the version you need.)*
2. Install dependencies using Composer:

   ```bash
   composer install
   ```

### Step 4: Configure System Path

1. Add Drush to your system path so it can be run globally:

   ```bash
   ln -s /usr/local/share/drush/drush /usr/local/bin/drush
   ```
2. Verify installation:

   ```bash
   drush --version
   ```

✅ Drush is now installed and ready to use.

## Important Notes

- Ensure **Composer** is installed before running Drush.
- Always match Drush version with your Drupal version.
- Use SSH access with sufficient permissions to install globally.