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Import an Existing Site into Softaculous

This guide shows how to make Softaculous aware of an app that is already on your hosting, so you can manage it from one place.

Softaculous2 min read12 steps3 screenshots

What does importing mean?

Softaculous is a tool in cPanel that installs and manages website apps. If you installed WordPress by hand, or moved a site from another host, Softaculous does not know about it. Importing tells Softaculous that the app exists. After that, you can upgrade, back up and clone it with a few clicks.

Importing does not move or change your files. It only adds the app to the Softaculous list.

Before you start

  • The app files must already be in a folder on your account.
  • The database must already exist and work. A database is where the app keeps its text and settings.
  • Take a backup first. It is a good habit before any change.

Steps

  1. Log in to your Hostvento client area at https://secure.hostvento.com/clientarea.php.
  2. Open Services, choose your hosting plan and log in to cPanel.
  3. Open Softaculous Apps Installer.
  4. Click the Import icon. It sits near the top right, next to the other tool icons.
  5. You will see a list of app types that can be imported. Find the one that matches your site, for example WordPress. Click Import next to it.
    Screenshot: You will see a list of app types that can be imported. Find the one that matches your site
  6. Choose the domain where the app lives.
  7. Type the folder name if the app is not on the main page. A folder is a directory on the server. Leave the box empty if the app is on the main page of the domain.
  8. Click Import again to confirm.
  9. Wait for the message that says the import finished.
    Screenshot: Wait for the message that says the import finished.

Check the result

  1. Click All Installations.
  2. Look for your app in the list.
  3. Click the app name to see its details.

If the import fails

  • Check that the folder is correct.
  • Check that the app files are complete and not damaged.
  • Make sure the app version is one Softaculous supports.
  • Open a support ticket at https://secure.hostvento.com/submitticket.php and tell us the app name and folder.
Tip: If you have many sites, import them one by one and check each in All Installations.

Quick recap

  • Importing adds an existing app to the Softaculous list.
    Screenshot: Importing adds an existing app to the Softaculous list.
  • Your files stay where they are.
  • Use the Import icon, pick the app type, then the domain and folder.
  • Check All Installations to confirm.
  • Ask Hostvento support if it fails.