HestiaCP

HestiaCP: A User-Friendly Server Management Solution

HestiaCP is a modern and easy-to-use control panel for managing server resources, simplifying the setup of websites, domains, databases, and email. It is equally convenient for beginners and powerful for experienced system administrators. With an intuitive interface and a wide range of features, HestiaCP is an excellent choice for personal projects, freelancers, and small businesses.

Key Advantages

  • Intuitive Web Resource Management Easily add websites and domains, modify settings, and manage databases and email systems.
  • User-Friendly Interface Designed for all experience levels, enabling basic tasks like creating domains or setting up email in just a few clicks.
  • Unlimited Domains Supports an unlimited number of domains and subdomains for maximum flexibility.
  • Backup Tools Automatically create and store backups with quick data restoration when needed.
  • User Management A flexible access control system allows you to create individual accounts and assign different levels of permissions.

Installation & Getting Started

Below are the main steps to quickly prepare your server for HestiaCP usage.

Step 1: Installing HestiaCP on the Server

If you're using a pre-configured HestiaCP image from Marketplace (or another source), installation is typically a straightforward process.

Connecting via SSH

Connect to your server using an SSH client:

  • Linux/macOS: Use the Terminal.
  • Windows: Use PuTTY or another SSH client.

Enter your server’s credentials:

  • IP address
  • Username
  • Password (or SSH key if configured). After logging in, you will see a welcome message, confirming that your server is ready for HestiaCP configuration. image6

Verifying Login Credentials

After successfully logging in via SSH, you can check your credentials by running the following command in the console:

cat /root/.password_credentials

This will display the username and password for managing your HestiaCP server. image2

Admin Password Location

The /root/.password_credentials file typically contains the admin password (admin user), which is required for accessing the HestiaCP web panel.

Step 2: Accessing the Web Interface

Opening the Web Panel via IP Address

  1. Open your browser and go to:

    https://<IP-адрес>:8083

(Replace <IP-адрес> with your actual server IP address.)

  1. Some browsers may display a security warning about an untrusted certificate. This is normal for a newly set up server. Confirm the exception to proceed.

After this, you will reach the HestiaCP login page, where you can enter your admin credentials to access the control panel. image5

Logging into the HestiaCP Panel

  1. Enter your credentials:
  • Username: admin
  • Password: (found in /root/.password_credentials or provided during installation)
  1. Click "Login", and you will gain access to the HestiaCP management dashboard, where you can configure websites, domains, databases, email, and more.

image1 image3

After Successful Login

Once you log in, you will be directed to the HestiaCP main dashboard, where you can start configuring your server, adding websites, managing domains, databases, and email services.

You're now ready to customize your server settings and optimize it for your projects! image4

Key Sections & Features of HestiaCP

1. Website Management

Navigate to the Web section.

Click "Add Web Domain".

Enter the domain name (e.g., example.com) and enable additional options like SSL certificates or data compression if needed.

This allows you to add a new site, assign it to a directory on the server, and configure settings like PHP version and HTTPS support.

2. Database Management

Open the DB section.

Click "Add Database" to create a new database.

Set the database name, username, and password.

Here, you can also manage existing databases, delete them, reset passwords, and connect to external database tools like phpMyAdmin.

3. Creating FTP Accounts

Go to the FTP section.

Click "Add FTP Account" and define the login credentials.

Specify the folder access permissions.

FTP accounts make it easy for you or your clients to upload files directly to the server.

4. Email Configuration

In the Mail section, click "Add Mail Domain".

Enter the domain for email (e.g., mail.example.com). Create email accounts (e.g., info@example.com).

HestiaCP automatically generates the DNS records needed for correct mail server operation.

5. SSL Certificate Installation

Go to the Web section, select your domain, and open its settings.

Enable "SSL Certificates".

Choose a free Let’s Encrypt SSL or upload a custom certificate.

A secure HTTPS connection increases trust and protects data transmissions.

6. Backup Management

Open the Backup section.

Click "Add Backup Job" and select which components to back up (websites, databases, mail, etc.).

Set automatic backup intervals.

In case of system failure, you can quickly restore critical data.

Important Notes

Opening Port 25 (Email Sending)

  • Many hosting providers block port 25 by default to prevent spam.
  • If you plan to send emails, contact your hosting provider to enable outgoing traffic on this port.

Security Best Practices

  • Use strong and unique passwords for all accounts.
  • Enable SSL where possible to secure data transmission.
  • Keep HestiaCP updated to receive the latest security patches.

Conclusion

HestiaCP is a powerful yet user-friendly control panel that balances simplicity with professional-grade features.

Easily manage websites, domains, databases, and email. No deep command-line knowledge required. Built-in backup and security options.

By following this guide, you can set up a stable, secure, and efficient hosting environment. With proper setup, your projects will run smoothly and respond quickly to user requests.