Switching Between Apache and Nginx Using Terminal and cPanel/WHM in a VPS
Introduction
When it comes to selecting a web server for your Virtual Private Server (VPS) environment, the decision generally comes down to two leading options - Apache and Nginx. These two open-source web servers control a substantial chunk of the market, with both offering unique features that make them suitable for different scenarios. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to switch between Apache and Nginx, both from the terminal and using cPanel/WHM, in a VPS provided by www.domainindia.com.
Part 1: Switching from Apache to Nginx
Terminal Method:
Step 1: Backup
Before starting the switch, make sure to back up all the necessary files, databases, and configuration files. This step is crucial to ensure no data loss during the process.
Step 2: Uninstall Apache
The first step is to uninstall Apache from your system. On most systems, you can do this by stopping the Apache service first:
sudo systemctl stop httpd
Then uninstall Apache:
sudo yum remove httpd # CentOS/RHEL
# or
sudo apt-get remove apache2 # Debian/Ubuntu
**Step 3: Install Nginx**
Once Apache is removed, you can install Nginx. Depending on your distribution, the command to install Nginx will be one of the following:
sudo yum install nginx # CentOS/RHEL
# or
sudo apt-get install nginx # Debian/Ubuntu
**Step 4: Configure Nginx**
After installing Nginx, the next step is to configure it for your needs. Nginx's main configuration file is located at `/etc/nginx/nginx.conf`. Depending on your requirements, you may need to modify this file or add additional configuration files in the `/etc/nginx/conf.d/` directory.
**Step 5: Start and Enable Nginx**
With everything set up, start the Nginx service:
sudo systemctl start nginx
And enable it to start on boot:
sudo systemctl enable nginx
cPanel/WHM Method:
If your VPS uses cPanel & WHM, you can switch to Nginx using Engintron, which is a free WHM plugin that provides an easy way to integrate Nginx on your server. Here are the steps:
**Step 1: Login to WHM**
Access WHM with your 'root' user credentials.
**Step 2: Install Engintron**
Navigate to 'Plugins' and choose 'Engintron for cPanel/WHM'. If Engintron isn't listed, you can install it via SSH:
cd /; rm -f engintron.sh; wget --no-check-certificate https://raw.githubusercontent.com/engintron/engintron/master/engintron.sh; bash engintron.sh install
**Step 3: Configure Engintron**
Once Engintron is installed, you'll see it in the 'Plugins' section. You can access the Engintron app and make any necessary modifications to match your server's needs.
Part 2: Switching from Nginx to Apache
Terminal Method:
**Step 1: Backup**
Always back up your data and configurations before making significant changes to your server.
**Step 2: Uninstall Nginx**
Stop the Nginx service:
sudo systemctl stop nginx
Then uninstall Nginx:
sudo yum remove nginx #
CentOS/RHEL
# or
sudo apt-get remove nginx # Debian/Ubuntu
**Step 3: Install Apache**
Now you can install Apache on your system. Depending on your distribution, the command will be:
sudo yum install httpd # CentOS/RHEL
# or
sudo apt-get install apache2 # Debian/Ubuntu
**Step 4: Configure Apache**
Apache's main configuration file is located at `/etc/httpd/conf/httpd.conf` on CentOS/RHEL or `/etc/apache2/apache2.conf` on Debian/Ubuntu. Depending on your website's needs, you might need to modify this file or add additional configuration files.
**Step 5: Start and Enable Apache**
Finally, start the Apache service and enable it to start on boot:
sudo systemctl start httpd
sudo systemctl enable httpd # CentOS/RHEL
# or
sudo systemctl start apache2
sudo systemctl enable apache2 # Debian/Ubuntu
cPanel/WHM Method:
Switching from Nginx to Apache is pretty straightforward with EasyApache in WHM. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Login to WHM
Access your WHM as the 'root' user.
Step 2: Navigate to EasyApache 4
From the WHM dashboard, go to 'Software', then click on 'EasyApache 4'.
Step 3: Customize
In the 'Currently Installed Packages' section, click on 'Customize'.
Step 4: Apache MPM and PHP Versions
Here, you can choose your preferred Apache MPM (Multi-Processing Module) and PHP versions.
Step 5: Review and Provision
Click 'Next' until you reach the 'Review' section. Review your selections, then click 'Provision'.
Conclusion
Whether you're switching from Apache to Nginx or vice versa, both via terminal or using cPanel/WHM, the process requires careful execution. Always remember to backup your data before initiating the switch. If you're unsure about the process, seek help from professionals or your hosting provider to avoid disrupting your website's operations. Whichever web server you choose, both Nginx and Apache are powerful and flexible, offering a range of features to help you get the most out of your www.domainindia.com VPS.
