WHM, short for Web Host Manager, is a powerful web-based control panel used to manage and administer multiple cPanel accounts on a server. It provides server administrators and web hosting resellers with the tools they need to manage and monitor their hosting environment effectively.
WHM is a powerful web-based tool that allows you to manage multiple cPanel accounts and perform various administrative tasks on your server.
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a WHM account. Whether you are a web hosting reseller or a server administrator, this guide will help you get started. Let’s dive in!
Accessing WHM
To access WHM, you will need the login credentials provided by your web hosting provider. Typically, you can access WHM by appending “/whm” to your server’s domain name or IP address in a web browser. For example, if your server’s IP address is 123.456.789.0, you would access WHM by visiting https://123.456.789.0/whm.
Creating a New WHM Account
Creating a new WHM account is a straightforward process. Once you have logged in to WHM, follow these steps:
- Click on the “Account Functions” or “Account Information” section.
- Select “Create a New Account.”
- Fill in the required details, such as domain name, username, password, and contact email.
- Choose the desired package for the account or create a custom package.
- Click on the “Create” button to create the new WHM account.
Setting Up Account Information
After creating a new WHM account, you need to configure the account information. This includes setting up the domain name, username, password, and contact email. Ensure that you choose a strong password and provide a valid contact email address for the account.
Configuring Package Settings
WHM allows you to define packages that determine the resources and features available to each cPanel account. When creating a new WHM account, you can select an existing package or create a custom package. Package settings may include disk space, bandwidth limits, email accounts, MySQL databases, and more.
Managing Features and Limits
In WHM, you have granular control over the features and limits for each cPanel account. You can enable or disable specific features such as email, FTP, PHP, and CGI access. Additionally, you can set limits on various resources like CPU usage, memory usage, and concurrent connections to ensure fair resource allocation among accounts.
Configuring DNS Settings
DNS (Domain Name System) settings are crucial for proper website functioning. In WHM, you can configure the DNS settings for each cPanel account. This includes setting up nameservers, adding DNS records like A, CNAME, MX, and TXT, and managing DNS zones. Proper DNS configuration ensures that visitors can access websites hosted on your server.
Customizing cPanel
cPanel is the control panel used by individual cPanel accounts. WHM allows you to customize the appearance and functionality of cPanel. You can choose from various cPanel themes, add custom branding, configure default features and settings, and even enable or disable specific cPanel plugins and modules.
Setting Up Remote Access
WHM provides the option to set up remote access to cPanel accounts. This allows you to manage individual cPanel accounts directly without needing to log in to WHM. Remote access can be set up using various methods such as cPanel’s API, SSH keys, or WHM’s XML-API.
WHM Security Measures
As a server administrator, it is essential to prioritize security. WHM offers several security measures to safeguard your server and cPanel accounts. Some key security features include enabling SSL/TLS certificates, configuring firewall rules, implementing brute force protection, and managing user passwords and access privileges.
Managing Suspended Accounts
In WHM, you can suspend or unsuspend cPanel accounts as needed. Account suspension temporarily disables all services associated with the account, including websites and email. This feature can be useful in situations where you need to enforce payment, investigate suspicious activity, or resolve policy violations.
Performing Backups
Regular backups are crucial for data protection and disaster recovery. WHM provides comprehensive backup tools that allow you to schedule and manage backups for cPanel accounts. You can configure backup settings, choose backup destinations, and restore accounts from backups if needed.
Monitoring Server Health
Monitoring the health of your server is vital for ensuring optimal performance and identifying potential issues. WHM offers server monitoring tools that allow you to monitor resource usage, check server status, view logs, and receive notifications for critical events. Monitoring helps you proactively address any server-related concerns.
WHM Plugins and Add-ons
WHM supports a wide range of plugins and add-ons that enhance its functionality and provide additional features. These plugins can help with tasks such as spam filtering, SEO optimization, analytics, and more. You can explore the available plugins and add-ons in the WHM interface and choose the ones that align with your requirements.
FAQs
1. Can I create multiple WHM accounts on the same server?
Yes, WHM allows you to create and manage multiple accounts on the same server. Each account operates independently with its own set of resources and settings.
2. What is the difference between WHM and cPanel?
WHM is the web-based control panel used for server administration and managing multiple cPanel accounts. On the other hand, cPanel is the control panel used by individual hosting accounts to manage their websites, emails, and other services.
3. Can I upgrade or downgrade the package of a WHM account?
Yes, you can easily upgrade or downgrade the package of a WHM account. WHM provides a simple interface to modify package settings and apply them to the respective accounts.
4. Is WHM available for Windows servers?
No, WHM is primarily designed for Linux-based servers. However, there are alternative control panels available for Windows servers, such as Plesk.
5. Can I transfer cPanel accounts between different WHM servers?
Yes, WHM offers tools for transferring cPanel accounts between servers. You can use the “Transfer Tool” in WHM to securely migrate accounts from one server to another.
Conclusion
Creating a WHM account is a fundamental step in managing your server and hosting environment effectively. In this article, we have covered the process of creating a new WHM account, configuring account settings, managing features, securing your server, performing backups, and more. By following these guidelines, you will be well-equipped to create and manage WHM accounts with confidence.
I’m Kevin Harkin, a technology expert and writer. With more than 20 years of tech industry experience, I founded several successful companies. With my expertise in the field, I am passionate about helping others make the most of technology to improve their lives.