# Installing Concrete CMS manually

> Install Concrete CMS by hand when you need a specific version or a custom setup instead of using Softaculous.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/manual-installations/installing-concrete-cms-manually/

**Concrete CMS** (formerly Concrete5) is a flexible, open‑source content management system. While Softaculous can automate installation, you may sometimes need to install it manually  for example, if you want a specific version or are working on an unmanaged server.

## Why Install Manually?

- Greater control over version selection.
- Works on unmanaged servers without cPanel/Softaculous.
- Useful for developers who want custom setups.

## Steps to Install Concrete CMS Manually

1. **Download Concrete CMS.**

   - Visit concretecms.com.
   - Click **Get Started → Download**.
   - Save the latest `.zip` file (e.g., `concrete5-8.5.5.zip`) to your computer.
2. **Extract Files.**

   - Unzip the downloaded package locally.
   - You’ll see a folder containing the CMS files.
3. **Upload Files to Hosting Account.**

   - Use FTP or File Manager in cPanel to upload the extracted files.
   - Place them in the `public_html` directory if you want Concrete CMS at the root (e.g., `example.com`).
   - Alternatively, upload to a subdirectory (e.g., `example.com/cms`).
4. **Create a MySQL Database.**

   - 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.
5. **Run the Installer.**

   - Open your browser and go to your domain (e.g., `http://example.com`).
   - The Concrete CMS installer will launch.
   - Select your language and click **Continue to Installation**.
6. **Configure Site Settings.**

   - **Site Name** → Enter the name of your site.
   - **Admin Email** → Provide the administrator’s email.
   - **Admin Password** → Choose a strong password.
   - **Starting Point** → Choose:

     - *Full Site* (with sample content) — recommended for beginners.
     - *Empty Site* (blank installation).
7. **Enter Database Details.**

   - **Server** → `localhost`
   - **MySQL Username** → the user you created
   - **MySQL Password** → the password you created
   - **Database Name** → the database you created
8. **Agree to Privacy Policy.**

   - Check the box to accept the terms.
9. **Install.**

   - Click **Install Concrete CMS**.
   - Wait a few minutes for the process to complete.
   - Once finished, click **Edit Your Site** to access the dashboard.

> **Note:**
- Manual installation is only needed if you cannot or do not want to use Softaculous.
- Always use strong admin and database passwords.
- Keep Concrete CMS updated to prevent vulnerabilities.
- Consider enabling automatic backups for added protection.