
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.
- Yes, add the argument
- 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.
- Use the
- 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.