# Configuring Joomla to use Redis

> Speed up Joomla by configuring it to use Redis for caching and sessions, where Redis is available on your account.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/joomla/configuring-joomla-to-use-redis/

Redis is an **open‑source memory object caching system** that stores frequently accessed data in RAM. By integrating Redis with Joomla, you can significantly improve site performance and reduce database load. On **ruachost.com**, Redis is available on **Managed VPS** accounts. [Contact Ruachost support](https://dashboard.ruachost.com/submitticket.php) to check availability on your shared hosting plan.

## Why Use Redis with Joomla?

- Accelerates page load times by caching database queries and API calls.
- Reduces server resource usage.
- Improves scalability for high‑traffic Joomla sites.
- Provides persistent caching across sessions.

## Prerequisites

- A hosting plan with Redis enabled (for example, a Managed VPS).
- Redis service enabled on your server.
- Joomla version 4 or later recommended.

## Steps to Enable Redis in Joomla

### Step 1: Log in to Joomla

1. Log in to your Joomla site as the **administrator**.
2. In the left sidebar, click **System**.
3. Under **Setup**, click **Global Configuration**.

### Step 2: Configure Redis Session Handler

1. Click the **System** tab.
2. In the **Session** section, locate **Session Handler**.
3. Select **Redis** from the dropdown list.
4. Configure Redis connection settings:

   - **Redis Server Host/Sock** →

     - For Managed VPS/Dedicated: `localhost`
     - For shared hosting (where Redis is enabled): `/home/username/.redis/redis.sock` *(replace* `username` *with your hosting account username)*
   - **Redis Server Port** → `6379`
5. Click **Save & Close**.

### Step 3: Verify Redis Integration

- Clear Joomla cache.
- Test site performance and confirm sessions are stored in Redis.
- If Redis is not working, check server logs or [Contact us](https://dashboard.ruachost.com/submitticket.php?step=2&deptid=2).

## Important Notes

- Redis is not available on every shared hosting plan. [Contact Ruachost support](https://dashboard.ruachost.com/submitticket.php) to confirm for your account.
- Always back up your site before making configuration changes.
- For unmanaged VPS accounts, you must install and configure Redis manually.
- Redis can also be used for **object caching** in addition to session handling.