This guide explains the process of how to install Dotclear using Softaculous via the cPanel dashboard. This service is available to users on the Domains.co.za cPanel Web Hosting plans.

Dotclear, a popular open-source blogging platform, is readily accessible through Softaculous, streamlining the installation process for users.

Using Softaculous to install Dotclear provides a straightforward and efficient method for setting up your blog or website, particularly beneficial for those who are uncomfortable with manual installation.

Please ensure you are logged into cPanel to follow along with the tutorial.

How to Install Dotclear from Softaculous

This article assumes that you have already logged into your Domain account and have accessed your cPanel Dashboard.

1. Scroll through the cPanel Dashboard Tools to the Software section.

2. Click on the Softaculous app icon.

3. Type in the app you want in the Search field, or click the Blog app category in the left hand menu and select Dotclear from the apps displayed in the dropdown menu.

Dotclear Custom Installation

4. The Dotclear Overview will be displayed.

5. Click the Install button, this will take you to the default Custom Install screen.

6. Under Software Setup, choose your Protocol, Domain Name and the Directory. If you have multiple domains associated with this account, you can select where to install it.

The directory is relative to the domain and currently, should not exist.
– Type dir to install here: http://mydomain/dir/
– To install only in http://mydomain/ leave it blank.

7. Under Site Settings, type in your Site Name, which can be set to default. This can be changed later from the application’s admin panel.

8. Fill in the Admin Account details:
– Admin Username
– Admin Password: The Softaculous offers an automatic secure password generator – please make a note of these details for future logins.
– Select the site Language and click Install to finalise the process.

Note: Under Advanced Options, you can choose a new Database Name to create a database for the installation and enter a Table Prefix, if necessary.

Dotclear Quick Installation

9. Click the Quick Install button should you wish to do a non-custom Dotclear installation.

10. Fill in the Admin Account as per item 7 above and then click Install to finalise the process.

After a Dotclear Installation

11. After clicking Install in either process, the software will be installed, and you can view your new site by clicking Installation.

12. Please Configure the Blog Settings, and here is the quick link to all the Dotclear Documentation, if you need it.

13. Should you be managing several blogs on this Dotclear installation, then please refer to the Multiblog Documentation.

You’ve reached the end of the tutorial, and you now know how to install Dotclear from Softaculous.

Additional Information

Key Features of Dotclear

Dotclear is a versatile blogging platform that simplifies blog creation and management. Here are some of its standout features:

• User-Friendly Interface: Dotclear offers an intuitive dashboard that makes managing comments, writing, editing, and publishing posts straightforward. Users can also easily customise themes from this simplified interface.
• WYSIWYG Editor: The platform includes a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editor, so users compose and format blog posts using tools much like those found in word processors.
• Customisable Themes: Dotclear supports both pre-designed and custom themes. Users can personalise their blog’s appearance using HTML, CSS, and template tags, or choose from a range of existing themes.
• Plugin System: Enhance your blog with additional features through the platform’s plugin system. Plugins offer functionalities such as contact forms, social media integration, and more.
• Multi-User Support: The platform supports multiple users with varying access levels. Administrators can assign roles, manage permissions, and oversee user accounts to tailor access to specific features.
• Media Management: Dotclear’s integrated media management system enables users to upload and organise images, videos, and other media directly within the platform, simplifying media inclusion in blog posts.
• SEO-Friendly: Designed with SEO in mind, Dotclear includes tools like customisable permalinks, meta tags, and sitemaps to enhance the visibility of your blog in search engine results.