# Installing ExpressionEngine

> Set up ExpressionEngine on your hosting account by uploading the files, creating a MySQL database and running its web installer.

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

**ExpressionEngine** is a powerful web publishing platform and content management system (CMS). Unlike many other apps in Softaculous, ExpressionEngine requires **manual installation** on hosting accounts.

## Why Use ExpressionEngine?

- Flexible CMS for blogs, e‑commerce, and enterprise sites.
- Supports custom templates, channels, and advanced publishing workflows.
- Strong developer community and plugin ecosystem.

## Steps to Install ExpressionEngine (Manual)

1. **Sign up for an ExpressionEngine account.**

   - Visit ellislab.com or expressionengine.com to download the software.
   - Choose either the free version or the paid version for full features.
2. **Download and Extract Files.**

   - Download the `.zip` file to your local computer.
   - Extract its contents.
3. **Upload Files to Hosting Account.**

   - Use FTP or File Manager in cPanel to upload the extracted files to your `public_html` directory.
   - Alternatively, upload to a subdirectory (e.g., `example.com/ee`).
4. **Create a MySQL Database.**

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

   - Connect via SSH or use File Manager.
   - Run the following commands to set correct permissions:

     ```bash
     cd ~/public_html
     find . -type f -exec chmod 644 {} \;
     find . -type d -exec chmod 755 {} \;
     ```
6. **Run the Installation Wizard.**

   - In your browser, go to `http://yourdomain.com/admin.php`.
   - The ExpressionEngine Installation and Update Wizard will appear.
   - Follow the prompts:

     - Accept license terms.
     - Enter webmaster email.
     - Provide database details (host: `localhost`, username, password, database name).
     - Create your admin account (username, password, email).
     - Set site name and theme (choose “None – Empty Installation” or “Agile Records” sample data).
7. **Finalize Installation.**

   - Click **Install ExpressionEngine Core!**
   - Once complete, you’ll see a success message.
   - Bookmark your control panel and site URLs.
8. **Delete Installer Directory.**

   - For security, remove the installer:

     ```bash
     cd ~/public_html/system
     rm -rf installer
     ```
9. **Log in to Control Panel.**

   - Use the admin credentials you created to access the ExpressionEngine dashboard.

> **Note:**
- ExpressionEngine is **not installed via Softaculous,**  it requires manual setup.
- Always use strong admin and database passwords.
- Keep ExpressionEngine updated to prevent vulnerabilities.
- Consider enabling automatic backups for added protection.