How to Manually Install WordPress via Installation Archive

How to Manually Install WordPress via Installation Archive

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of manually installing WordPress on your Curiaweb hosting account. Manual installation offers maximum control over your file structure and database configuration. This is particularly useful if automated tools are unavailable or if you have specific security requirements for your setup.

Step 1: Download the WordPress Installation Package

The first step is to download the latest version of WordPress directly from the source. Visit the official website at wordpress.org.

• Click the "Download WordPress" button.
• Save the .zip file to your computer and extract the archive locally.
• You will now have a folder named "wordpress" containing all system files (wp-admin, wp-content, wp-includes, etc.).

Step 2: Upload Files via FTP

To transfer the files to your server, use an FTP client. Connect using your Curiaweb FTP credentials (host, username, password).

• Choose Destination: If WordPress is to be your main site, navigate to the public_html folder in the right-hand panel (Server).
• Upload: In the left-hand panel (Local), select all files inside the extracted WordPress folder and drag them into the destination directory on the server.

Note: Depending on your connection, uploading approximately 3,000 files may take a few minutes.

Step 3: Create a MySQL Database and User

WordPress requires a database to store your content. Access your cPanel:

1. Locate the "MySQL Database Wizard" tool.
2. Enter a name for your database (e.g., user_wpdb).
3. Create a database user and a strong password.
4. Assign the user "All Privileges" for this database.

Step 4: Run the WordPress Installation Assistant

Open your web browser and enter your domain (e.g., https://yourdomain.ch). The WordPress configuration wizard will appear automatically.

• Language Selection: Choose your preferred language and click "Continue".
• Database Connection: Enter the details from Step 3:
  • Database Name, Username, and Password.
  • Database Host: Usually localhost.
  • Table Prefix: For security reasons, change wp_ to a unique prefix like curia_.

Step 5: Site Details and Admin Login

Once the database connection is successful, click "Run the installation". In the final window, set your basic site information:

• Site Title: The name of your project.
• Admin Username: Choose a secure name (avoid "admin"!).
• Password: Use the automatically generated secure password.
• Email Address: For system notifications and password recovery.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed WordPress manually. This method ensures you have full transparency of your website's structure—a significant advantage for future maintenance and optimization.