# Installing CandyCane

> Install CandyCane, a lightweight bug tracker similar to Redmine, on your hosting account by uploading its files and running setup.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/manual-installations/installing-candycane/

**CandyCane** is an open‑source bug tracking system, similar to Redmine, that helps teams manage issues and projects. While some applications are available via Softaculous, CandyCane requires **manual installation** on your hosting account.

## Why Use CandyCane?

- Lightweight bug tracking solution.
- Provides project management features like issues, milestones, and priorities.
- Easy to install and configure on PHP/MySQL hosting.

## Steps to Install CandyCane (Manual)

1. **Download CandyCane.**

   - Visit the official project page: <https://yandod.github.io/candycane>.
   - Download the installation `.zip` file to your local computer.
2. **Extract Files.**

   - Unzip the downloaded package.
   - You’ll see a folder named `candycane-x.y.z` (where `x.y.z` is the version number).
3. **Upload Files to Your Hosting Account.**

   - Use FTP or File Manager in cPanel to upload the contents of the extracted folder.
   - Place them in the `public_html` directory if you want CandyCane at the root (e.g., `example.com`).
   - Alternatively, upload to a subdirectory (e.g., `example.com/candycane`).
   - On unmanaged servers, the document root may be `/var/www/html`.
4. **Create a MySQL Database and User.**

   - In cPanel, use the **MySQL Database Wizard** to create a database and user.
   - Assign full privileges to the user.
   - Note the database name, username, and password, you’ll need them during installation.
5. **Run the Installer.**

   - In your browser, go to the installation URL:

     - If installed in root → `http://example.com`
     - If installed in a subdirectory → `http://example.com/candycane`
   - Click **Click here to begin installation**.
6. **Configure Database Settings.**

   - **Driver** → MySQL
   - **Host** → `localhost`
   - **User/Login** → database username you created
   - **Password** → database password you created
   - **Database Name** → database name you created
   - **Prefix for table name** → optional
   - Click **Build Database**, then **Click here to build your database**.
7. **Finalize Installation.**

   - Once installation completes, note the CandyCane home page URL and default login details.
   - Click **Click here to delete installation files** for security.
8. **Secure the Installation.**

   - Log in with the default admin account.
   - Create a new administrator user.
   - Disable the default admin account.

> **Note:**
- CandyCane is compatible with all **ruachost.com** accounts.
- If you see errors like `allow_url_fopen is NOT working well`, you may need to enable `allow_url_fopen` in a custom `php.ini`.
- If routing errors occur, ensure `.htaccess` files were uploaded correctly.
- Always use strong admin and database passwords.
- Keep CandyCane updated to prevent vulnerabilities.