This guide shows you how to install Joomla on your HOSTDOG hosting account using the Softaculous auto-installer. You will select your domain, configure basic settings, and have a working Joomla site in under five minutes.
Prerequisites
- An active HOSTDOG hosting account
- Access to your hosting control panel
- A domain name pointed to your hosting
Install Joomla via Softaculous
Log in to your control panel and click Softaculous Apps Installer. In the left sidebar, expand Content Management and click Joomla. Alternatively, use the search bar to find Joomla. Click Install Now.
Fill in the installation form:
| Setting | Recommended value |
|---|---|
| Choose Protocol | https:// |
| Choose Domain | Select your domain |
| In Directory | Leave empty for root install, or enter a folder name |
| Site Name | Your website name |
| Admin Username | Choose something unique (not admin) |
| Admin Password | Strong password, at least 12 characters |
| Admin Email | Your email address |
Leave the database settings on their defaults — Softaculous creates the database automatically.
Click Install. Softaculous downloads Joomla, creates the database, and configures everything in about 30-60 seconds. Once done, it displays two links:
- Site URL:
https://yourdomain.com— your public website - Admin URL:
https://yourdomain.com/administrator— the Joomla admin panel
Go to https://yourdomain.com/administrator and sign in with the admin credentials you set in Step 2. From the Joomla dashboard, you can create content, install extensions, choose a template, and configure your site.
Post-installation recommendations
- Enable HTTPS — go to System → Global Configuration → Server and set Force HTTPS to "Entire Site"
- Keep Joomla updated — check for updates regularly in System → Update → Joomla
- Install a security extension — consider Admin Tools or RSFirewall for additional protection
- Set up backups — install Akeeba Backup for easy Joomla-specific backups alongside HOSTDOG's automated daily backups