# Installing Smarty using Softaculous

> Install Smarty, a PHP template engine, on your hosting account in a few clicks with the Softaculous Apps Installer in cPanel.

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

**Smarty** is a popular PHP template engine that helps separate application logic from presentation. With **Softaculous**, you can install Smarty quickly and easily through cPanel.

## Why Use Smarty?

- Simplifies template management by separating PHP code from HTML.
- Speeds up development with reusable templates.
- Supports caching for improved performance.
- Quick one‑click installation via Softaculous.

## Steps to Install Smarty

1. **Log in to cPanel.**

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

   - In the Softaculous dashboard, type *Smarty* in the search box.
   - Or browse under **Frameworks → Smarty**.
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 Smarty will be installed.
6. **Set Directory.**

   - Leave blank if you want Smarty installed at the root (e.g., `example.com`).
   - Enter a folder name (e.g., `smarty`) if you want Smarty installed at `example.com/smarty`.
7. **Configure Admin Account (Optional).**

   - Some frameworks don’t require admin credentials, but Softaculous may ask for a default user setup.
   - Provide username, password, and email if prompted.
8. **Database Settings (Optional).**

   - Smarty itself doesn’t require a database, but Softaculous may create one for tracking installation.
   - Accept the default or configure manually.
9. **Advanced Options (Optional).**

   - Configure automated backups and rotation.
   - Enable email notifications for updates.
10. **Install.**

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

> **Note:**
- Smarty installation via Softaculous is available in **Softaculous Premium**.
- If you want your domain to go directly to Smarty, leave the **In Directory** field blank.
- Keep Smarty updated to ensure compatibility with modern PHP versions.