Using Joomla!, 2nd Edition

Appendix A. How to Install Joomla

This appendix will provide everything you need to know about installing and upgrading Joomla.

We understand readers come from various backgrounds and may or may not have expertise in dealing with server environments. Some parts may get a little technical, but we’ll try to put away the super-technical lingo and explain the process in simple terms everyone can understand.

Requirements

Even though Joomla may work on servers that do not meet the minimum specifications outlined in Table A-1, it is not advisable to run your site on a noncompliant server. In fact, you should strive to have your server support the recommended requirements.

Table A-1. Requirements for Joomla 3.3+

Software	Recommended	Minimum	Software website
PHP (Magic Quotes GPC off)	5.3.10+	5.3.10+	www.php.net
Supported databases:
MySQL (InnoDB support required)	5.1+	5.1+	www.mysql.com
MSSQL	10.50.1600.1+	10.50.1600.1+	www.microsoft.com/sql
PostgreSQL	8.3.18+	8.3.18+	www.postgresql.org
Support web servers:
Apache (with mod_mysql, mod_xml, and mod_zlib)	2.x+	2.x+	www.apache.org
Nginx	1.1	1.0	www.wiki.ngix.org
Microsoft IIS	7	7	www.iis.net

For up-to-date requirements information, visit the official Joomla Technical Requirements page.

Warning

Do not install an older version of Joomla to get around the PHP 5.3.10 requirement. You will end up with a site you cannot maintain. Instead, find a new host.

Choosing a Host

Choosing a good host is of utmost importance. There are many, many types of servers and services that you will need ...