# Installing MediaWiki using Softaculous

> Install MediaWiki, the wiki software that powers Wikipedia, on your hosting account in a few clicks with the Softaculous Apps Installer in cPanel.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/softaculous/installing-mediawiki-using-softaculous/

**MediaWiki** is the open‑source wiki software that powers Wikipedia and many other collaborative knowledge bases. It’s designed for scalability, multilingual support, and extensibility. With **Softaculous**, you can install MediaWiki quickly and easily through cPanel.

## Why Use MediaWiki?

- Powers Wikipedia and other large‑scale wikis.
- Highly extensible with extensions and skins.
- Supports multilingual content and advanced user permissions.
- Quick one‑click installation via Softaculous.

##

## Steps to Install MediaWiki

1. **Log in to cPanel.**

   - Navigate to the **Softaculous Apps Installer** section.
2. **Search for MediaWiki.**

   - In the Softaculous dashboard, type *MediaWiki* in the search box.
   - Or browse under **Wikis → MediaWiki**.
3. **Click Install.**

   - The MediaWiki installation page will open.
4. **Choose Protocol.**

   - Select `https://` or `https://www` if your site has an SSL certificate.
   - Select `http://` or `http://www` if SSL is not installed.
5. **Choose Domain.**

   - Select the domain where MediaWiki will be installed.
6. **Set Directory.**

   - Leave blank if you want MediaWiki installed at the root (e.g., `example.com`).
   - Enter a folder name (e.g., `wiki`) if you want MediaWiki installed at `example.com/wiki`.
7. **Configure Wiki Settings.**

   - **Wiki Name** → Enter the title of your wiki.
   - **Wiki Email** → Enter the email address for notifications.
   - **Admin Username** → Choose a unique username.
   - **Admin Password** → Use a strong password (Softaculous provides a strength meter or can generate one).
   - **Admin Email** → Enter the administrator’s email address.
8. **Database Settings.**

   - Provide a database name or accept the default.
   - Configure table prefix if needed.
9. **Advanced Options (Optional).**

   - Configure automated backups and rotation.
   - Enable email notifications for updates.
   - Choose auto‑upgrade options for MediaWiki.
10. **Install.**

    - Review settings and click **Install**.
    - Wait for confirmation. Softaculous will display the MediaWiki login URL (e.g., `example.com/wiki/index.php`).

> **Note:**
- MediaWiki installation via Softaculous is available in **Softaculous Premium**.
- Always use a strong admin password.
- Keep MediaWiki updated to prevent vulnerabilities.
- Consider enabling automatic backups for added protection.