How to install and configure ISPConfig 3

Install and Configure ISPConfig 3

Installing ISPConfig 3, a powerful open-source control panel, is now easier with the official auto-installer script. This guide offers an updated step-by-step approach based on the latest instructions, ensuring you master the process on Debian or Ubuntu servers. Whether you prefer Apache or Nginx, this guide also highlights advanced options to tailor your setup.

System Requirements for ISPConfig 3

Ensure your server meets these minimum requirements before proceeding:

  • Supported OS: Debian 11/12 or Ubuntu 20.04/22.04
  • Hardware: 2 GB RAM (recommended), 10 GB disk space
  • Root/Sudo Access: Required

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Update Your Server

Keep your server up-to-date for the best compatibility:

$ sudo apt update  
$ sudo apt upgrade -y  

2. Install Prerequisites

Install essential tools:

$ sudo apt install curl wget lsb-release gnupg -y 

3. Download and Run the Auto-Installer Script

Using cURL

Run the auto-installer script directly via cURL:

$ curl https://get.ispconfig.org | sh  

Using Wget

Alternatively, use Wget:

$ wget -O - https://get.ispconfig.org | sh  

4. Customize Installation with Arguments

You can customize the installation by passing arguments to the script.

  • Example: Debug Mode without Mailman

Using cURL:

$ curl https://get.ispconfig.org | sh -s -- --debug --no-mailman  

Using Wget:

$ wget -O - https://get.ispconfig.org | sh -s -- --debug --no-mailman  
  • View All Options

To see available options:

$ curl https://get.ispconfig.org | sh -s -- --help  

5. Install ISPConfig with Specific Configurations

You can choose specific configurations during the installation:

Apache Web Server with Passive FTP and Auto Updates

$ wget -O - https://get.ispconfig.org | sh -s -- --use-ftp-ports=40110-40210 --unattended-upgrades  

Nginx Web Server with Custom Port Range

$ wget -O - https://get.ispconfig.org | sh -s -- --use-nginx --use-ftp-ports=40110-40210 --unattended-upgrades  

When prompted with:

WARNING! This script will reconfigure your complete server!  
It should be run on a freshly installed server...  

Type yes to continue.

6. Final Steps of Installation

After completion, the installer provides critical details, including ISPConfig admin and MySQL root passwords. Ensure you save these securely.

Post-Installation Configuration

1. Setting Up Firewall Rules

Log into ISPConfig and navigate to System > Firewall. Add the necessary ports:

  • TCP: 20, 21, 22, 25, 80, 443, 40110:40210, 110, 143, 465, 587, 993, 995, 53, 8080, 8081
  • UDP: 53

The required ports for each service are as follows:

  • Web: 20, 21, 22, 80, 443, and 40110:40210 (All TCP, no UDP)
  • Mail: 25, 110, 143, 465, 587, 993, and 995 (All TCP, no UDP)
  • DNS: 53 (Both TCP and UDP)
  • Control Panel: 8080 and 8081 (All TCP, no UDP)

Your server is now fully configured and ready for use. Access the control panel at:
https://server1.example.com:8080

2. Configuring Websites, Email, and DNS

  • Web Hosting: Go to Sites > Add new website to configure domain settings.
  • Email Accounts: Under Email, set up email domains and accounts.
  • DNS Zones: Add A, MX, and CNAME records in the DNS section.

3. Enabling SSL

Enable SSL using Let’s Encrypt:

  • In Sites, select a website and check SSL Enabled.
  • Save and issue a certificate.

Advanced Options and Debugging

Available Command-Line Arguments

Customize your installation using options like:

  • --use-nginx: Install Nginx instead of Apache.
  • --no-mail: Skip mail server setup.
  • --use-ftp-ports: Define a custom FTP port range.
  • --debug: Enable detailed logging.

To view all options:

$ wget -O - https://get.ispconfig.org | sh -s -- --help  

Debugging Installation Errors

Enable debug mode for troubleshooting:

$ curl https://get.ispconfig.org | sh -s -- --debug  

Logs are saved in:

/tmp/ispconfig-ai/var/log/ispconfig.log  

FAQs

  • How do I install ISPConfig 3 on Ubuntu?
    • Run the command:
$ curl https://get.ispconfig.org | sh  
  • Can I choose Nginx over Apache?
    • Yes, add the argument --use-nginx to the installer script.
  • What are the default ISPConfig admin credentials?
    • The admin username is “admin,” and the password is shown at the end of the installation.
  • How can I debug installation issues?
    • Use the --debug argument for detailed logs.
  • What ports are needed for ISPConfig?
    • You need ports like 20, 21, 80, 443, and more. Full details are in the firewall setup section.

Conclusion

ISPConfig 3 simplifies web hosting management, offering a robust solution for various server needs. Following this updated guide ensures a smooth installation process, whether you opt for Apache or Nginx. With advanced customization options, you can fine-tune your setup to match your requirements.

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