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How to Install PrestaShop on Linux from the Terminal

Learn how to install prestashop on linux from the terminal on PrestaShop 8.x with clear steps, prerequisites, verification, and common troubleshooting.

Views: 27 Unique: 20 Updated: 2026-03-19

What this procedure is

How to install PrestaShop on a Linux server using the terminal (SSH). This is recommended on a VPS/server when you need control over versions and permissions.

Applies to: PrestaShop 8.x.

Why you would do this

  • You are installing on a VPS/server with SSH access.
  • You need control over PHP extensions and permissions.
  • You want a repeatable process (useful for staging).

Prerequisites

  • SSH access (a user with admin privileges).
  • A domain/subdomain pointing to the server (recommended).
  • An SSL certificate (recommended for a public store).
  • Planned maintenance window if this is a migration.

Quick diagnosis (before you change anything)

1) Confirm server requirements

Goal: avoid errors caused by missing extensions or wrong versions.
Expected result: you know which PHP version and extensions you need.

2) Decide install folder and URL

Goal: install in the correct path (root or subfolder).
Expected result: you know the DocumentRoot and final URL.

Terminal installation (high-level steps)

Step 1) Prepare the environment (PHP and extensions)

Goal: make sure the PrestaShop installer passes all checks.

Use a PHP version compatible with PrestaShop 8.x and enable common extensions (PDO, MySQL, intl, gd, zip, curl).

Expected result: the server can run PrestaShop without dependency errors.

Step 2) Create a database and user

Goal: have credentials ready for the installer.

Create an empty database and a user with full permissions on it.

Expected result: you have DB name, user and password.

Step 3) Upload/download PrestaShop files

Goal: place files in your public web directory.

Download the official ZIP, extract it, and put the files into your domain’s folder.

Expected result: opening the URL shows the installer.

Step 4) Set correct file permissions

Goal: allow PrestaShop to write cache/uploads without making the server unsafe.

Grant write access to folders like var/, img/, modules/, and themes/ as required by your setup.

Expected result: the installer shows no permission errors.

Step 5) Run the web installer

Open your domain in a browser and follow the wizard: language, license, store info, and database credentials.

Expected result: PrestaShop confirms the installation is complete.

Step 6) Remove /install and verify /admin

Goal: close the process and reduce risk.

The installer asks you to delete /install. It also shows the admin URL (the /admin folder is renamed).

Expected result: the store loads and the Back Office opens.

Final verification

  • Homepage loads without a 500 error or blank page.
  • You can log into the Back Office.
  • In Advanced Parameters → Information you can see version and system status.

If something doesn’t work (common issues)

500 error after installation

  • Enable debug mode to see the real error.
  • Check PHP version and missing extensions.
  • Verify permissions for var/ and img/.

Installer does not show

  • Confirm files are in the correct domain directory.
  • Check that the hosting points to that folder (DocumentRoot).

Best practices

  • Install on a staging subdomain first, then move to production.
  • Enable HTTPS from day one for a public domain.
  • Set up automated backups (files + database).
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