Webmin as Control Panel for Server Management

A variety of web servers on the internet operate based on a Unix-like operating system. In most cases, this is a distribution of Linux. However, configuring the system can often be a major challenge for beginners. Webmin is a program designed to simplify server management and configuration with the popular free operating system.

Server Management on Linux

Due to its high stability and excellent performance, many administrators and web hosting providers prefer Linux over other operating systems as the basis of their software infrastructure. Also, in terms of security, most Linux servers have a slight edge over the competition.

However, managing a Linux system can be a significant hurdle for inexperienced users. Setting up, maintaining, and managing various services requires a solid understanding of their respective functionalities. Additionally, many functions can only be accessed through the console. To work effectively in this area, knowledge of various console commands is necessary. These commands, however, vary between different distributions.

Webmin is a control panel that allows you to administer all applications installed on a Linux server through a graphical user interface. Additionally, the project provides useful modules for download to further expand the panel's functionality.

What is Webmin?

The Webmin program was first introduced in 1997. The goal of the developers led by Jamie Cameron was to provide a simple and intuitive solution for managing and configuring all services under Linux.

Since then, the project has been actively developed and improved by a community. As the control panel is freeware, there is no professional support team behind it. However, users can find tutorials and assistance in a community forum or the Webmin Wiki.

Installing Webmin

In most Linux distributions, Webmin is already included in the repositories. If not, the software package can be downloaded from the developer's website. The following package formats are available:

• .deb - for Debian-based systems like Ubuntu or Linux Mint
• .rpm - for Red Hat-based Linux distributions
• .tar - for installation as a tarball

Since the project is actively maintained and regularly updated, directly downloading from Sourceforge is recommended. The versions in the repositories are mostly outdated. However, for those who do not require the latest software version and do not want to compromise the stability of their system, using the repository versions is also possible.

Installing Webmin adds a small server to the system, which the control panel uses to display the administration interface. This interface can be accessed in any browser via the address http://IP-Address:10000. However, before using the program, authentication as an administrator is required.

Webmin Features

After opening the control panel via the web browser, the dashboard appears with some statistical information such as CPU usage or available disk space. On the left side, there are some submenus that can be opened with a click.

These are the different sections that can be managed through the software.

Webmin Section

Through the Webmin section, the control panel itself can be configured. Controlling access is particularly important. Server management through the browser is by default secured only through the admin's password input. To prevent misuse, a computer or an IP address in the network with administrator rights should be defined. Other machines or users not authorised for server management can be excluded accordingly.

System Section

To ensure the web server runs smoothly on the operating system, some system adjustments are necessary. This includes adapting the boot process as well as optimising program flows. The System section offers numerous options to improve the server's functionality on the respective OS. Additionally, Webmin provides a backup function that allows system restoration in case of a breakdown.

Servers Section

All services essential for effective server administration can be found under the Servers section. Here, the web, database, and DNS servers can be configured, email mailboxes created, or remote access via SSH server set up.

Hardware Section

In this section, the free control panel provides all statistics and functions for managing and optimising the existing hardware. New disk partitions can be created or storage media cleaned up with just one click.

Networking Section

For those looking to equip their system with a firewall, useful tools and settings can be found under the Networking section. The Netfilter/Iptables packet filter is widely used in Linux. Webmin offers a user-friendly interface that allows even novices to manage the filter. Additionally, basic network settings can be defined. In case of a network error, bandwidth measurement is a helpful tool for troubleshooting.

Who is Webmin suitable for?

The control panel is suitable for all administrators of Linux servers who want to make server management a bit easier. Linux users usually already have basic knowledge of their system. However, Webmin can be a helpful addition, especially for users who feel unsure about configuring through the console.

Use our Web Hosting Control Panel Comparison to find out which admin tool is best suited to 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://www.webmin.com/ (official Webmin website)

Image credit:
Gerd Altmann on Pixabay