# Installing Open Source Social Network using Softaculous

> Install Open Source Social Network (OSSN), a platform for building online communities, on your hosting account in a few clicks with Softaculous in cPanel.

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

**OpenSource-SocialNetwork (OSSN)** is a free, open‑source social networking platform. It’s designed to help you build online communities with features like user profiles, groups, messaging, and plugins. With **Softaculous**, you can install OSSN quickly and easily through cPanel.

## Why Use OSSN?

- Lightweight and flexible social networking engine.
- Supports themes, plugins, and multilingual communities.
- Ideal for building online communities, intranets, or niche social networks.
- Quick one‑click installation via Softaculous.

## Steps to Install OSSN

1. **Log in to cPanel.**

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

   - In the Softaculous dashboard, type *OpenSource-SocialNetwork* in the search box.
   - Or browse under **Social Networking → OpenSource-SocialNetwork**.
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 OSSN will be installed.
6. **Set Directory.**

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

   - **Site Name** → Enter the title of your network.
   - **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.
   - **First Name / Last Name / Birth Date / Gender** → Fill in administrator details.
8. **Data Directory.**

   - Specify a directory outside the public_html folder to store OSSN’s data files.
9. **Database Settings.**

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

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

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

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