How to Install WordPress for the First Time

WordPress is the world's most popular website platform, and installing it on your dotCanada hosting account takes just a few minutes. dotCanada uses Softaculous - a one-click installer built right into cPanel - to make it simple.

Step 1: Log Into cPanel

Access cPanel through your client area at clients.dotcanada.com. If you need help, see our guide on logging into cPanel.

Step 2: Open Softaculous

In cPanel, scroll to the Software section and click Softaculous Apps Installer. You can also look for the WordPress icon directly on the cPanel home screen.

Step 3: Start the WordPress Installation

1. In Softaculous, click on WordPress and then click Install Now
2. Choose the protocol (select https:// if you have an SSL certificate - dotCanada provides free Let's Encrypt SSL for all hosted domains)
3. Select the domain you want to install WordPress on
4. Leave the In Directory field blank to install at the root of your domain
5. Enter a Site Name and Site Description
6. Set your WordPress admin username, password, and email address
7. Click Install

You Are Done!

Softaculous will install WordPress automatically. Once complete, you will see links to your new website and your WordPress admin dashboard. Log into yourdomain.com/wp-admin to start building. If you run into any trouble, contact our support team.