Preparing Your Server for TruCMS

Prepare a domain, document root, HTTPS, permissions, and PHP before installation.

What you are preparing

Before opening the installer, prepare the web address and hosting account so TruCMS is reachable through the correct public folder and can write the files it needs. Doing this first prevents common problems such as exposed application files, redirect loops, failed uploads and installer permission errors.

  1. Choose the domain or subdomain that will host TruCMS and point its DNS to the server.
  2. Configure that site so its document root points to TruCMS's public directory.
  3. Enable PHP 8.4+ and the extensions listed in System Requirements.
  4. Make storage and bootstrap/cache writable by the web-server user.
  5. Create an empty database and a dedicated database user.
  6. Enable HTTPS before entering live payment credentials or opening the site to customers.

Why the public directory matters

The browser-facing document root must be the public directory. Do not configure the domain to expose the TruCMS project root. The public directory is the intended web entry point and keeps non-public application files outside direct browser access.

Do not solve permissions with unrestricted access

Only the folders that need to be writable should be made writable. Avoid broad permissions such as making the whole application writable to everyone.

Use HTTPS from the beginning

HTTPS is strongly recommended for any production installation and is particularly important when customer accounts, Booking, TruCommerce or TruPayments will be used. Configure the final HTTPS URL before launch so links, callbacks and checkout pages are generated consistently.

Next step

Create the database credentials you will enter in Installer Step 3. See Creating a Database.