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Installing YOURLS using Softaculous

YOURLS (Your Own URL Shortener) is a PHP‑based application that allows you to run your own URL shortening service, similar to TinyURL or Bitly. With Softaculous, you can install YOURLS quickly and easily through cPanel.

Why Use YOURLS?

Section titled “Why Use YOURLS?”
  • Create and manage short URLs under your own domain.
  • Provides statistics and analytics for each shortened link.
  • Supports plugins and custom keyword URLs.
  • Quick one‑click installation via Softaculous.

Steps to Install YOURLS

Section titled “Steps to Install YOURLS”

  1. Log in to cPanel.

    • Navigate to the Softaculous Apps Installer section.

  2. Search for YOURLS.

    • In the Softaculous dashboard, type YOURLS in the search box.
    • Or browse under Others → YOURLS.

  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 YOURLS will be installed.

  6. Set Directory.

    • Leave blank if you want YOURLS installed at the root (e.g., example.com).
    • Enter a folder name (e.g., yourls) if you want YOURLS installed at example.com/yourls.

  7. Configure Site Settings.

    • Site Name → Enter the name of your shortener service.
    • 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 YOURLS.

  10. Install.

    • Review settings and click Install.
    • Wait for confirmation. Softaculous will display the YOURLS login URL (e.g., example.com/yourls).