What this procedure is
How to install PrestaShop on cPanel hosting using the manual method (File Manager + MySQL + web installer).
Applies to: PrestaShop 8.x.
Why you would do this
- Your hosting does not include Softaculous or you prefer manual control.
- You want to install in a specific path.
- You want to understand the process for future migrations.
Prerequisites
- cPanel access.
- Domain/subdomain configured.
- SSL ready (recommended).
- PrestaShop ZIP file.
Quick diagnosis (before you change anything)
1) Decide install folder
Expected result: you know whether you will use public_html or a subfolder.
2) Prepare a database
Expected result: you have DB + user + password ready.
Manual installation on cPanel
Step 1) Create the database
In cPanel open MySQL Databases and create a DB + user with privileges.
Expected result: credentials are ready.
Step 2) Upload and extract PrestaShop
In File Manager, upload the ZIP to the domain folder and extract it.
Expected result: you see PrestaShop files (e.g. app/, modules/).
Step 3) Run the installer
Open your domain in a browser and complete the wizard using the MySQL credentials you created.
Expected result: installation completes.
Step 4) Delete /install and save admin URL
Delete /install and save the Back Office URL.
Expected result: the store is ready.
Final verification
- Homepage loads over HTTPS.
- Back Office opens.
- No permission warnings appear in Performance.
If something doesn’t work (common issues)
Requirement or permission errors
- Switch PHP version in cPanel (MultiPHP).
- Check permissions for cache/upload folders.
- Clear cache if you already attempted an install.
Best practices
- Before going public, configure SMTP and SSL.
- Make a first backup once the installation is clean.
- Install on a staging subdomain if you are testing.