# Installing Symphony CMS manually

> Install Symphony CMS, a flexible XSLT-based content management system, on your hosting account by hand.

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

**Symphony CMS** is an open‑source content management system built on PHP and MySQL. It’s known for its flexibility, extensibility, and minimalist approach to content management. On **ruachost.com**, Symphony CMS must be installed manually.

## Why Use Symphony CMS?

- Lightweight and developer‑friendly.
- Uses XML and XSLT for templating.
- Highly customizable with extensions.
- Compatible with all **ruachost.com** hosting accounts.

## Steps to Install Symphony CMS Manually

1. **Download Symphony CMS.**

   - Visit getsymphony.com/download.
   - Save the latest `.zip` package to your computer.
2. **Extract Files.**

   - Unzip the downloaded package locally.
   - The extracted folder will be named something like `symphony-x.x.x`.
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 Symphony at the root (e.g., `example.com`).
   - Alternatively, upload to a subdirectory (e.g., `example.com/symphony`).
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 Installer.**

   - In your browser, go to the installation URL:

     - If installed in root → `http://example.com/install`
     - If installed in a subdirectory → `http://example.com/symphony/install`
   - The Symphony installation page will appear.
6. **Configure Website Preferences.**

   - Enter your **Site Name**.
   - Set **Date and Time** preferences.
7. **Configure Database Connection.**

   - Enter the database details you created:

     - **Database Name** → `username_symphony` (database names are prefixed with your account username).
     - **Username** → `username_symphony` (same prefix rule applies).
     - **Password** → database password.
8. **Create Administrator Account.**

   - Enter an **Admin Username**, **Password**, and **Email Address**.
   - This will be used to log in to the Symphony dashboard.
9. **Finalize Installation.**

   - Click **Install Symphony**.
   - Once installation completes, click **Ok, now take me to the login page**.
   - Log in with the admin credentials you created.

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