# Website staging with Softaculous

> Create a staging copy of a Softaculous application, test your changes safely and push them to the live site.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/softaculous/website-staging-with-softaculous/

**Website staging** allows you to test changes to your site in a safe environment before publishing them live. With **Softaculous**, you can easily create a staging copy of your application (such as WordPress) and push updates once you’re ready.

## Why Use Staging?

- Prevents errors from breaking your live site.
- Lets you test new themes, plugins, or code safely.
- Provides a controlled environment for development.
- Reduces downtime and risk during updates.

## Setting Up the Staging Environment

Before creating a staging site, you must set up a location for it:

1. ### Create a Subdomain

   - Example: `staging.example.com`
   - Use cPanel to add a subdomain dedicated to staging.
2. ### Create an Addon Domain

   - Register a new domain and use it for staging.
   - Requires additional domain registration.

⚠️ **Note:** Some applications (like Magento) may not support staging due to licensing restrictions.

## Backing Up Your Site

- Always back up your site before staging.
- Softaculous offers automatic backups, but it’s best to keep manual or off‑site backups as well.
- Backups ensure you can restore your site if something goes wrong.

## Creating a Staging Copy

1. Log in to **cPanel**.
2. Go to **Softaculous Apps Installer**.
3. Click **All Installations**.\
   ![Screenshot](https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/kb-images/3edccab44429.webp)
4. Locate the application (e.g., WordPress) and click the **Create Staging** icon.\
   ![Screenshot](https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/kb-images/3ddab3cb30df.webp)
5. Fill in details:

   - **Choose Protocol** → `http://` or `https://`
   - **Choose Domain** → Select your staging subdomain/addon domain
   - **In Directory** → e.g., `staging`
   - **Database Name** → Provide a unique database name
6. Click **Create Staging**.
7. Wait for the staging copy to be created.

You can now log in to the staging site using the same credentials as your live site.

## Pushing Staging to Live

Once you’re satisfied with changes:

1. Log in to **cPanel**.
2. Go to **Softaculous Apps Installer → All Installations**.
3. Click the **Push to Live** icon next to your staging site.
4. Choose:

   - **Default Push** → Replaces all files and database with staging copy.
   - **Custom Push** → Select specific files or database changes to push.
5. Click **Push to Live**.
6. Review your live site to confirm everything works correctly.