YOURLS Hosting, Free Domains and SSL Certs Services

Planning a YOURLS Website

Install YOURLS

RSH Web Services offers YOURLS installation through Softaculous in cPanel. This is the first-choice installation method because it guides setup from the hosting control panel.

For a manual installation, download the current release only from the project's official source, review its requirements, create the required database and credentials in cPanel, upload the files, and follow the upstream installation instructions. Remove installation files when the documentation directs you to do so.

Migration and Upgrades

For a same-application move, first check the applicable cPanel backup and file or database transfer tools. If Softaculous shows a verified backup, restore, clone, or upgrade option for this exact YOURLS installation, it can be used after creating a separate backup. Otherwise, follow the application's official migration procedure and move its files, database, configuration, uploads, and scheduled tasks manually.

A Softaculous update upgrades YOURLS; it does not convert the site into another application. Test the target PHP version and the new application release on a staging copy, confirm extensions and themes remain compatible, and keep a restorable pre-upgrade backup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is YOURLS?

YOURLS, accessible via Softaculous, is a free, open-source PHP-based URL shortening service. Because it is self-hosted, the site owner controls the installation, application data, user accounts, configuration, and update schedule. Review its official documentation and current maintenance status before deciding whether its workflow is the right fit for a new project.

Can RSH Web Services install YOURLS through Softaculous?

Yes. RSH Web Services offers YOURLS installation through Softaculous in cPanel. Open Softaculous, locate YOURLS, review the displayed version and requirements, choose the domain and directory, and complete the installer. Record the administrator details securely and review the new site's settings immediately after installation.

Can YOURLS be installed manually?

Yes. Download the current package from the official project source, confirm the supported PHP and database versions, create a database and user in cPanel, upload the files, and follow the project's installation documentation. Manual installation gives more control, but it also makes you responsible for every configuration and maintenance step.

Which hosting plan is suitable for YOURLS?

The right plan depends on traffic, stored data, uploads, simultaneous users, background processing, and backup retention. Match the plan to the application's documented requirements and allow spare capacity for updates and growth. A small installation can start conservatively, while busy or data-heavy deployments may need additional resources.

How do I migrate an existing YOURLS site?

Begin with a complete backup and check the applicable cPanel tools. Use a Softaculous migration, clone, backup, or restore function only when it is explicitly offered for that exact installation and task. Otherwise, follow the official migration instructions for files, database, configuration, uploads, permissions, scheduled jobs, and final URL changes.

How should YOURLS be upgraded?

Create a restorable backup before every upgrade. If Softaculous manages the installation and offers the applicable upgrade, review its release details and use that workflow; otherwise follow the official manual upgrade guide. Test major changes on staging, verify PHP and extension compatibility, and check important user workflows after completion.

How can I secure a YOURLS installation?

Apply supported releases promptly, use unique administrator credentials, enforce least privilege, keep HTTPS enabled, and remove unused accounts, extensions, themes, and files. Install add-ons only from trusted sources, protect configuration and database credentials, review application and server logs, and follow any security advisories published by the project.

What should a YOURLS backup contain?

A useful backup includes the full database, application files, uploaded content, configuration, and custom code. Schedule backups according to how often information changes, retain multiple restore points away from the live site, and test a restoration periodically. A backup is only dependable when its files can be recovered successfully.

Should I test YOURLS before launching?

Yes. Use a staging installation to verify the supported PHP and database versions, permissions, email delivery, scheduled tasks, user roles, backups, upgrades, and the workflows visitors will use. Testing is especially important for older projects or sites holding sensitive data, because successful installation alone does not confirm production readiness.