Use cPanel as a control panel for server management

cPanel is considered one of the most popular software solutions alongside Plesk when it comes to server management or configuring web hosting packages. Through the web-based user interface of both applications, cPanel and WHM, all important settings in the server administration and account management can be made without the need to work directly on the system level with complicated text commands. cPanel is specifically designed for use on Linux operating systems. As it is proprietary software, appropriate license fees apply.

What does cPanel offer?

With cPanel, users have a comprehensive range of settings available for managing a Dedicated Server and configuring web hosting accounts. cPanel is actually divided into three different user interfaces. The cPanel itself serves as a Control Panel for the actual server settings. The Web Hosting Manager WHM is used for organising individual web space packages and user accounts. Additionally, the Webmail Interface provides a separate application for email communication. cPanel is one of the most popular Plesk alternatives and is the second most widely used admin tool in the international market, directly behind its competitor.

cPanel Control Panel

The cPanel Control Panel is the core of the management software. Here, all server settings can be made at the domain level. The user-friendly interface allows for the configuration of all relevant system parameters using simple point-and-click controls.

• Domain Management
  Domains can be activated, parked, or redirected. Additionally, subdomains can be created and entries such as A-Record, MX-Record, or CNAME can be edited using the DNS Zone Editor.
• Email Management
  Mailboxes and email accounts can be created and managed. Advanced settings such as spam filters, autoresponders, or email forwarding can also be set up.
• Security Settings
  Security-related functions such as enabling directory protection, blocking specific IP addresses, or setting up SSL certificates can be configured.
• Databases and Files
  The data stored on the webspace can be organised and backed up. Larger datasets can also be managed in database systems like MySQL or PostgreSQL.
• Logfiles
  Through the applications Webalizer and AWStats, a detailed analysis of the logfiles can be conducted, tracking all accesses to the website.

WHM Web Hosting Manager

The WHM Web Hosting Manager operates at a higher system level and is used for managing user accounts and creating individual webspace packages. The graphical interface also simplifies the software's usability.

• User Management
  Individual user accounts can be created and managed. System resources can be allocated to each package individually, and access can be granted to customer accounts.
• Server Monitoring
  Server monitoring helps administrators keep track of activities on the entire server. This allows for continuous monitoring of traffic consumption and system resources used.
• Backups and Migrations
  Complete backups of entire web hosting accounts can be created and restored when needed. Additionally, migrations of customer accounts to other servers can be easily carried out.
• Unique Branding
  The WHM Web Hosting Manager enables customers to appear as independent web hosting providers through unique branding. Logos, colours, and other design elements can be customised accordingly.

The Webmailer

The webmailer can be used by individual email users as a web-based mail client. Messages can be sent, retrieved, and sorted into various mailboxes. Administrators can also specify which webmail client to use. Some of the most popular systems on the market include the software solutions Horde, Roundcube, and SquirrelMail.

What requirements does cPanel have?

As cPanel is a comprehensive configuration software deeply embedded in the system, it should be installed immediately after setting up the server's operating system. Integrating it into an existing system later on requires significant effort and extensive technical knowledge. The same applies to removing the software. Those looking to switch from cPanel to an alternative control panel usually have to reinstall the server.

In general, cPanel only requires a Unix or Linux operating system to operate. It supports all common distributions such as CentOS, Red Hat, or Cloud Linux. While a Windows-based version of the software was available on the market for some time, it has since been discontinued. The developer specifies a minimum storage space of 20 GB for the software's specific hardware requirements. Additionally, 1 GB of RAM should be available. For operation on a virtual server, the software supports various well-known virtualization methods, including KVM, OpenVZ, or Virtuozzo.

The development of cPanel

cPanel has a long history. The first version of the software was released over 20 years ago by the developer John Nick Koston. Initially, cPanel was only available internally to customers of various web hosting providers in which John Nick Koston was involved, for server management. It was only a few years later that Koston began to focus exclusively on the development of cPanel and ultimately made it available to other users in the market. A significant milestone in the software's development was the year 1999. This was when cPanel 3 was released, offering a completely revamped version with a new interface and numerous new features, such as the WHM Web Hosting Manager. Currently, the software is distributed on the international market by cPanel LLC based in Houston, Texas.

The pricing model of cPanel

Since cPanel is proprietary software, license fees apply for its use. These fees primarily depend on the number of user accounts and the type of server on which the Control Panel is deployed. a distinction is made between Cloud Licenses (on VPS and Cloud infrastructure) and Metal Licenses (on dedicated servers).

The base cost for using it on a VPS with a single user account is around 16 USD per month, while the base cost for using it on a dedicated server with up to 100 user accounts is around 60 USD per month. Depending on the number of licenses purchased or the duration for which they are prepaid, customers may be eligible for attractive discounts on the base costs.

The current cost structure of cPanel is as follows:

• cPanel Solo: Entry-level plan for individual user accounts on VPS or Cloud.
• cPanel Admin: Plan for small businesses with 5 user accounts on VPS or Cloud.
• cPanel Pro: Plan for large enterprises with up to 30 user accounts on VPS or Cloud.
• cPanel Premier: Enterprise plan for web hosts and data centres with more than 100 user accounts on dedicated servers, VPS, or Cloud.

In addition, numerous optional paid extensions for cPanel are also available.

Web hosting companies that choose to work exclusively with cPanel can also apply to become an official partner of the provider. In addition to discounts of up to 30 percent, companies can also benefit from preferential customer service in this way. Partners of cPanel Inc. include well-known companies such as 1&1, GoDaddy, Bluehost, or HostGator.

For regular customers who receive cPanel from their web hosting provider, the license costs for the management software are usually already integrated into the monthly web hosting costs. Therefore, end customers typically do not incur any additional costs.

Who is cPanel suitable for?

The cPanel is suitable for a wide range of users due to its extensive range of features. Especially web hosting providers have a practical tool for managing customer accounts and server settings with the cPanel and WHM Hosting Manager. The attractive discounts and partnerships have led many web hosting companies to choose the proprietary software from the USA. For end customers, using cPanel is an excellent way to manage their web hosting account, website, email addresses, and data through the graphical user interface without the need for in-depth technical knowledge.

Also, find out how the Control Panel compares in the cPanel vs Plesk comparison against its direct competitor.

Use our Web Hosting Control Panel Comparison to find out which admin tool is best suited for your individual needs.

Our article is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from external sources.

Sources & further links on the topic:
https://cpanel.net/ (Official website of cPanel)

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bsdrouin on Pixabay