# Installing Open Web Analytics using Softaculous

> Install Open Web Analytics, a self-hosted website analytics platform, on your hosting account in a few clicks with the Softaculous Apps Installer in cPanel.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/softaculous/installing-open-web-analytics-using-softaculous/

**Open Web Analytics (OWA)** is a free, open‑source web analytics platform that lets you track and analyze how visitors use your website. With **Softaculous**, you can install OWA quickly and easily through cPanel.

## Why Use Open Web Analytics?

- Privacy‑friendly alternative to Google Analytics.
- Tracks page views, unique visitors, and conversions.
- Supports heatmaps, click tracking, and custom events.
- Quick one‑click installation via Softaculous.

## Steps to Install Open Web Analytics

1. **Log in to cPanel.**

   - Navigate to the **Softaculous Apps Installer** section.
2. **Search for Open Web Analytics.**

   - In the Softaculous dashboard, type *Open Web Analytics* in the search box.
   - Or browse under **Polls and Analytics → Open Web Analytics**.
3. **Click Install.**

   - The 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 OWA will be installed.
6. **Set Directory.**

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

   - **Site Domain** → Enter the domain name you want to track.
   - **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 OWA.
10. **Install.**

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

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