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Kirby Documentation and Hosting Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kirby free to use on a live website?

Kirby can be explored while developing a site, but its official quickstart says you must buy a Kirby license when you publish a website. Hosting charges are separate from the software license. Check Kirby's current terms for your project and budget for any paid plugins before launching; installing through Softaculous does not include a Kirby license.

Does Kirby need MySQL?

Not for Kirby's default file-based content model. Pages and site data live in the project's files, making the complete file tree central to both migration and backup. A custom application or plugin can introduce a database dependency, so inspect the specific setup before concluding that your finished site has no database to maintain.

Which PHP versions work with Kirby?

The current official Kirby quickstart lists PHP 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, and 8.5, and recommends 8.4. Requirements can change between Kirby versions, while plugins can impose additional constraints. Check the installed release and its extension requirements against your cPanel PHP configuration before publishing or upgrading rather than relying on a generic PHP compatibility claim.

Can non-developers edit a Kirby website?

Yes. Kirby's Panel gives authorized editors a web interface for content updates, uploads, and other tasks configured by the site builder. What they see depends on the project's blueprints and permissions. A developer typically prepares the content structure and templates first, so the editorial interface matches how your team actually works.

What is the difference between Kirby's Starterkit and Plainkit?

The Starterkit includes example content, blueprints, and templates that demonstrate the Panel and common site patterns. The Plainkit provides a minimal starting point for a custom build. Both are official installation routes; choose the one that matches your development workflow, and check the instructions for configuring your first Panel account and production license.

Can I build a blog or gallery with Kirby?

Yes. Kirby's flexible content fields and templates can support a blog, image gallery, portfolio, or other editorial format. The exact authoring tools and front-end presentation depend on the chosen kit, site configuration, and optional plugins. Plan the content types and navigation before building so editors have clear fields instead of improvised page layouts.

What files must be moved when migrating Kirby?

Bring the complete project, not only visible page content: include content files, uploaded media, templates, configuration, plugins, and hidden files such as .htaccess on Apache. Review cPanel migration or backup tools first and inspect any Softaculous actions for a recognized installation. Test the Panel, asset URLs, and access rules on the destination before switching DNS.

How do I protect Kirby content and configuration?

Kirby ships Apache rewrite and access rules in its .htaccess file to keep internal folders from direct exposure. Make sure it is copied during deployment; other web servers need equivalent rules configured separately. Limit administrator privileges, update Kirby and plugins, and test that private folders cannot be fetched publicly after a migration.

Should I use Softaculous or install Kirby manually?

RSH Web Services offers the cPanel Softaculous route for a straightforward installation. Check the version it offers and verify that it fits your design and plugin needs. Manual installation using an official kit gives developers a more hands-on setup. Whichever route you choose, follow Kirby's Panel security guidance and activate a license before going live.