# Installing Matomo manually

> Install the Matomo web analytics platform by hand when you want the latest version or more control than Softaculous gives.

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

**Matomo** (formerly known as **Piwik**) is an open‑source web analytics platform that gives you full control over your data. While Softaculous can automate installation, you may sometimes need to install Matomo manually — for example, if you want the latest version or are working on an unmanaged server.

## Why Use Matomo?

- Provides privacy‑friendly analytics with full data ownership.
- Offers detailed visitor insights, conversion tracking, and reporting.
- Extensible with plugins and integrations.
- Compatible with all **ruachost.com** hosting accounts.

## Steps to Install Matomo Manually

1. **Log in via SSH.**

   - Connect to your hosting account using SSH.
   - Navigate to your home directory:

     ```bash
     cd ~
     ```
2. **Download Matomo.**

   - Run the following command:

     ```bash
     curl -O https://builds.matomo.org/matomo.zip
     ```
3. **Extract Files.**

   - Unzip the package into your `public_html` directory:

     ```
     unzip ~/matomo.zip -d ~/public_html
     ```
   - This creates a `matomo` folder containing the application files.
4. **Create a MySQL Database and User.**

   - In cPanel at **ruachost.com**, use the **MySQL Database Wizard**.
   - Create a database and user, then assign full privileges.
   - Note the database name, username, and password — you’ll need them during installation.
5. **Run the Web Installer.**

   - In your browser, go to:

     ```
     http://example.com/matomo
     ```
   - The Matomo Welcome page will appear.
   - Click **Next** to proceed.
6. **System Check.**

   - Matomo will verify server requirements.
   - On managed accounts, no additional configuration is usually required.
   - On unmanaged servers, you may need to install missing PHP extensions.
7. **Database Setup.**

   - Enter the database details you created:

     - **Server** → `localhost`
     - **Login** → database user
     - **Password** → database password
     - **Database Name** → database name
     - **Table Prefix** → optional (default: `matomo_`)
     - **Adapter** → `PDO\MYSQL`
8. **Create Super User Account.**

   - Enter an **Admin Username**, **Password**, and **Email Address**.
   - This account manages your Matomo installation.
9. **Configure Website Tracking.**

   - Enter your **Website Name**, **URL**, and **Time Zone**.
   - Choose whether the site is eCommerce enabled.
   - Matomo will generate a JavaScript tracking code snippet.
   - Add this snippet to your website pages to enable tracking.
10. **Finalize Installation.**

    - Click **Continue to Matomo**.
    - Log in with the admin credentials you created.
    - The Matomo dashboard will appear.

> **Note:**
- Matomo is compatible with all **ruachost.com** accounts.
- Always use strong admin and database passwords.
- Keep Matomo updated to prevent vulnerabilities.
- Consider enabling automatic backups for added protection.

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