# Installing the Nginx web server

> Install and start the Nginx web server on an unmanaged Linux server where you have root access.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/developers/web-servers/installing-the-nginx-web-server/

Learn how to set up the high-performance Nginx web server on an unmanaged hosting environment.

This guide explains how to install Nginx, a fast and efficient web server originally created as a high-speed alternative to Apache.

> **Caution:**
Root access is required to perform the steps in this guide.

**Installing Nginx**\
Follow the steps that match the Linux distribution running on your server. If your system uses a different distribution, refer to its documentation for installation instructions.

**Debian and Ubuntu**\
To install Nginx:

1. Log in to your server through SSH.
2. As the root user, run:

```
apt update
apt install nginx
```

3. Visit your server’s IP address or domain name in a web browser. You should see the default **“Welcome to nginx!”** page.

**AlmaLinux and Fedora**\
To install Nginx:

1. Log in to the server using SSH.
2. As root, run:

```
yum -y update
yum -y install epel-release
yum -y install nginx
systemctl enable nginx
```

3. Visit your server’s IP address or domain name in a browser to confirm the default Nginx Welcome page is displayed.

**Publishing Web Content**\
The document root (where you place your website files) depends on your Linux distribution:

- Debian / Ubuntu:\
  `/var/www/html`
- AlmaLinux / Fedora:\
  `/usr/share/nginx/html`

Upload your files to the appropriate directory so visitors can access your website.

**More Information**\
Official Nginx documentation is available at:\
nginx.org/en/docs