What makes BrackenHost greener?

BrackenHost hosting is delivered on a platform designed to reduce environmental impact by combining modern, efficient infrastructure with performance features that reduce wasted compute time. This article explains what that means in practical terms, and what to look for when comparing “green hosting” claims across providers.

What “green hosting” should mean (in plain English)

A hosting provider’s footprint is mostly driven by:

• The electricity used by servers, storage, and networking
• The electricity used by the data centre itself (cooling, power conversion, building overhead)
• How efficiently the platform uses resources (wasted CPU time = wasted energy)
• Whether the electricity is backed by renewable generation (rather than fossil-heavy grids)

When a provider says “green”, it can mean very different things. Some genuinely power infrastructure with renewable electricity; others mainly rely on carbon offsets or marketing badges.

BrackenHost green features (high level)

Renewable-powered hosting (platform commitment)

Brackenhost positions its hosting as “green” by running services on renewable energy. For customers, the key point is that your website is hosted on infrastructure intended to be powered by renewable electricity rather than conventional grid-only power.

If you’re comparing providers, ask them whether they use renewable-backed electricity for the data centre(s) your site actually runs in (not just “we plant trees” or “we buy offsets”).

More efficient infrastructure = less energy per visit

Even with renewable power, efficiency still matters. The Brackenhost platform focuses on performance and resource management (e.g., SSD storage, caching, modern PHP support, tooling that reduces wasted processing). Faster, better-cached sites generally require fewer CPU cycles per page view, which reduces overall energy use at scale.

Built-in performance features that reduce waste

Depending on your plan and configuration, the platform includes features that can reduce compute overhead, such as:

• Server-side caching (e.g., StackCache on WordPress)
• CDN caching options (where enabled/used)
• Up-to-date PHP versions (newer PHP is typically more performant than legacy stacks)

These don’t “make electricity green”, but they can reduce how much of it you need for the same traffic.

How BrackenHost compares to “typical” hosting providers

When people move from older or budget hosting elsewhere, the common differences are:

• Older stacks (outdated PHP / less efficient caching)
• More resource waste (slow sites that require more server time)
• Green claims based mainly on offsets rather than renewable-powered operations

Not every non-Brackenhost host is worse—some are excellent and genuinely green—but many “green hosting” claims in the market are hard to verify. The most meaningful comparison points are transparency (what exactly they do) and efficiency (what you get per watt).

What to ask any hosting company claiming “green”

Use this checklist when comparing BrackenHost to any provider:

• Do you power the hosting infrastructure with renewable electricity, and can you state how?
• Is the commitment for the actual hosting platform (not just the office)?
• Do you publish anything about efficiency or modernisation (hardware lifecycle, platform optimisation)?
• Do you provide performance tools (caching/CDN) that reduce compute per page view?
• Are you relying mostly on offsets, or on renewable-backed power plus efficiency?

How you can make your website even greener (customer actions)

You can reduce the footprint of your site regardless of host:

• Compress images and serve modern formats (WebP/AVIF)
• Use caching where available (especially for WordPress)
• Remove unused plugins/themes and heavy page-builder bloat
• Keep WordPress/PHP updated for better performance
• Avoid auto-playing video backgrounds and oversized assets

What are Cloud Servers?

In the digital era, website performance is crucial for business success. Cloud servers have emerged as a pivotal solution, offering unparalleled flexibility, scalability, and reliability. This article explores what cloud servers are and how they can significantly improve website performance.

Cloud servers are virtual servers running in a cloud computing environment. They are built, hosted, and delivered via a cloud computing platform over the internet and can be accessed remotely. They are a part of a larger physical server, but function as an independent unit with its dedicated resources, including CPU, memory, and storage.

Benefits of Cloud Servers for Website Performance

• Scalability: One of the most significant advantages is scalability. As website traffic varies, cloud servers can dynamically allocate resources to handle spikes in traffic, ensuring consistent performance.
• Reliability and Uptime: Cloud servers offer high reliability. With data centers located worldwide, they provide redundancy and failover capabilities, minimizing downtime and maintaining availability.
• Speed and Performance: With advanced hardware and optimized networks, cloud servers can deliver faster loading times and efficient data processing, enhancing user experience.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Cloud servers follow a pay-as-you-go model, meaning you only pay for the resources you use. This flexibility can lead to significant cost savings, especially for websites with fluctuating traffic.
• Security: Enhanced security features, including data encryption and regular backups, protect against data breaches and loss, an essential aspect for any online presence.
• Easy Management: With user-friendly management panels and automated solutions, maintaining and updating websites becomes more straightforward, allowing more focus on core business activities.

Moving to a cloud server can significantly improve website performance in various aspects, from speed to security. For businesses aiming to stay competitive and provide an optimal user experience, cloud servers offer a flexible, cost-effective, and robust solution.

Comprehensive Guide to Managed AWS Hosting

Introduction: Managed AWS (Amazon Web Services) Hosting represents a significant evolution in cloud hosting services. It combines the advanced capabilities of AWS with the convenience of a fully managed service.

Key Features of Managed AWS Hosting:

• Ease of Deployment and Management: Managed AWS hosting simplifies the deployment and management of AWS servers. It includes features like easy server deployment, fully managed cloud hosting, and an intuitive control panel for streamlined management.
• Comprehensive Security Measures: Security in Managed AWS hosting is robust, featuring two-factor authentication, DDoS protection, website password managers, and web application firewalls. Additionally, it provides brute force login protection and the ability to block visitors by IP or country.
• Enhanced WordPress and Email Features: Managed AWS hosting is optimized for WordPress, with features like StackCache optimization, auto core updates, and WordPress staging. Email services include unlimited mailboxes, catch-all address support, antivirus, and antispam protection.
• Database and Scripting Support: This hosting solution supports a range of scripting and database requirements, including PHP version switching, popular modules, Git version control, and PHP-FPM for enhanced website performance.
• Domain Management: Domain features include DDoS-protected DNS, full DNS management, and support for unlimited subdomains and alias domains.
• Performance and Reliability: Managed AWS hosting ensures high performance and reliability. It employs premium SSD webspace, a global network of data centers, and advanced CDN solutions for faster website loading.
• Website Acceleration and PHP Optimization: Features like image resizing, compression, code minification, and lazy loading are included to enhance site speed. PHP is optimized with custom PHP-FPM and OPcache to ensure resources are efficiently utilized.
• Application Support: The hosting service offers a library of over 80 one-click apps, facilitating easy deployment and enhancement of websites.
• Compliance and Certifications: It adheres to industry standards and certifications, including PCI compliance for secure online transactions and SSL certificates for encrypted data transfer.
• Malware Protection and Scanning: Daily malware scans are conducted to identify and address security threats, with tools available for rescan and issue resolution.
• Support and Assistance: Managed AWS hosting provides 24/7 expert support, ensuring assistance is always available. This includes a comprehensive knowledge base and premium support without extra charges.
• Transparent Pricing: A transparent pricing model is adopted, providing clear monthly costs without hidden fees or add-ons for basic features.

Conclusion: Managed AWS Hosting offers a robust, secure, and scalable solution for businesses seeking the power of AWS with the ease of a managed service. With its comprehensive range of features and dedicated support, it’s an ideal choice for businesses aiming to optimize their online presence.

Maximizing Web Potential with Managed Google Cloud Hosting

Introduction: Managed Google Cloud Hosting combines the advanced infrastructure of Google Cloud Platform (GCP) with the convenience and expertise of a managed service, offering a robust solution for hosting needs.

Key Features of Managed GCP Hosting:

• Expert Support and Easy Management: Managed GCP hosting is backed by 24×7 expert support, ensuring easy server deployment and management. The control panel simplifies the management process, with no need for command line or cPanel interactions.
• High-Performance Data Centres and Network: Leveraging Google’s Premium Tier Network, the hosting service provides premium SSD webspace, access to over 60 global data centers, and a robust 100 Gbit/s network. It also emphasizes green hosting practices.
• Comprehensive Security: Security features include two-factor authentication, DDoS protection, biometric security measures, and brute force login protection. It also offers features to block visitors by IP or country and provides hotlink protection.
• WordPress Optimization: Enhanced features for WordPress include StackCache optimization, auto core updates, staging, cloning, and a WordPress Manager. This makes it particularly beneficial for WordPress-based websites.
• Advanced Email Capabilities: Offering unlimited mailboxes, catch-all address support, and robust antivirus and antispam protection, the hosting service caters to diverse email needs.
• Versatile Script and Database Support: The service includes a PHP version switcher, popular modules, Git version control, ElasticSearch, Redis Cache, and a cron job manager, catering to a variety of scripting and database requirements.
• Domain Management: Features for domain management include DDoS-protected DNS, full DNS management, and support for unlimited subdomains and alias domains.
• Website Acceleration and PHP Optimization: The hosting service includes a website acceleration suite for optimizing images and code, and customized PHP-FPM and OPcache for resource optimization.
• Diverse Application Support: A vast library of over 80 one-click apps is available, facilitating the quick launch and enhancement of websites.
• Additional Features: These include Google Cloud Armour DDoS protection, free SSL certificates, PCI compliance, automatic malware scans, and a transparent pricing model without hidden fees.

Conclusion: Managed GCP Hosting is an ideal choice for businesses seeking a powerful, secure, and scalable web hosting solution. With its comprehensive range of features, expert support, and seamless management, it represents a premium hosting option for a variety of online applications.

Do I need caching plugins in addition to the CDN?

The short answer is no, the Content Delivery Network takes care of caching for you. The CDN caches static content and stores it until it’s purged via the Edge Caching section in {{brand.cpurl}}. This means you shouldn’t use any additional caching plugins such as W3 Total Cache or WP Super Cache.

In addition, we handle optimisation via the Website Acceleration Suite. The module improves website load times by automatically implementing web performance best practices to a website. This includes optimising images, JavaScript minification and combining CSS – all to improve website load times. Therefore, you don’t need plugins such as WP Smush, Lazy Loading, EWWW Image Optimizer or Autoptimise.

How do I use the CDN?

The CDN is quick and easy to use. Head to the package you want to enable our CDN for and locate the CDN section. To activate the main Edge Caching element of the CDN, select Edge Caching – select the toggle to activate it (Manage Hosting -> Manage -> Edge Caching). There’s nothing more you need to do! All static content on your website will now be cached automatically and served from the CDN node closest to its location.

Purge Cache

To purge the cache that’s stored at the CDN node head to the Edge Caching section and select the Purge Everything button.

CDN Statistics

With the {{brand.brandName}} CDN, you can get an understanding about the traffic and requests accessing your sites. Detailed data sets are collated and presented in charts for each of your sites at {{brand.brandName}}, giving you insights about your site’s performance.

Accessing site Statistics

You can access the statistics for each site you host from the package overview page with your {{brand.brandName}} account.

• Select the package you wish to view the statistics for by selecting Manage.
• Select Statistics
• You’ll be presented with the CDN Statistics overview with the option to switch to the Traffic Distribution view.
• Total Bandwidth – This refers to the amount of data (in bytes) sent through the {{brand.brandName}} CDN to the client. This is split between data that’s been served from the origin server (uncached bandwidth) and served from the CDN nodes (cached bandwidth).
• Total Hits – This refers to the number of files and sessions that have been transferred using the CDN network, it’s important to note that this isn’t the same as ‘unique visitors’.
• You can filter the statistics by a time period using the toggles at the top-right of each section.

Traffic Distribution

The statistics also show a geographic overview of incoming requests to your side. This can also be toggled between Last Hour, Last Day and Last Week. You can hover over a country to see figures for that location.

Total Bandwidth

• Total Bandwidth – Total amount of bandwidth (sum of bytes) served by {{brand.brandName}}’s CDN network
• Cached Bandwidth – Amount of bandwidth for requests considered as “cached”, i.e., the response is served from {{brand.brandName}}’s CDN Cache
• Uncached Bandwidth – Amount of bandwidth for requests considered as “uncached”, i.e., the response is served directly from backend server

Total Hits

• Total Hits – Total number of requests captured by {{brand.brandName}}’s CDN network.
• Cached Hits – Number of requests considered as “cached”, i.e., the response is served from {{brand.brandName}}’s CDN Cache.
• Uncached Hits – Number or requests considered as “uncached”, i.e., the response is served directly from the backend server.

SSL Hits vs Non-SSL Hits

This graph shows the number of requests that are encrypted via the HTTPS protocol as opposed to the unencrypted HTTP protocol. If requests to a site such as http://example.com are made, this would constitute an insecure request. You’ll want to ensure that as much as possible requests to your sites are made over HTTPS. Most often, this can be achieved using a 301 redirect, WordPress plugin, or ensuring the WordPress site and home URL utilise HTTPS. You will also need an SSL certificate to cover the site.

HTTP Successful Requests vs Error Requests

• Successful Request – These requests are defined as being all HTTP requests in the range of 200-399, such as ‘200 OK’ requests or 301 Redirects.
• Error Requests – These are defined as being HTTP requests ≥ 400, such as 404 Not Found requests or 503 Internal Server Errors.

It’s important that the amount of successful requests is maximised. If you’re seeing a higher rate of error requests, you should consider checking the access and error logs for any data about requests.

How long is website data cached for at a CDN node?

The CDN itself is used to cache static content. By default, the following file types are cached for 60 minutes before being purged automatically.

bmp, class, css, csv, doc, docx, ejs, eot, eps, gif, ico, jar, jpeg, jpg, js, mid, midi, otf, pdf, pict, pls, png, ppt, pptx, ps, svg, svgz, swf, tif, tiff, webp, woff, woff2, xls, xls2, robts.txt

What is MariaDB?

MariaDB is a fork of MySQL. The database structure and indexes of MariaDB are the same as MySQL. This makes MariaDB a backward compatible, drop-in replacement for MySQL. We currently run MariaDB version 10.2.29.

To check the version of MariaDB:

• Head to Manage Hosting, then phpMyAdmin.
• Select the database in the left-hand panel.
• Select the Query tab at the top.
• Type the query: SELECT VERSION(); and select Go.
• The version of MariaDB will then be outputted.

How do I import a .sql file via phpMyAdmin?

You can use phpMyAdmin to import an .SQL file with your database information. To do this:

• Log in to your database via phpMyAdmin ({{link.cpurl}} > Manage Hosting > [select package] > phpMyAdmin).
• Choose the database you want to import your .SQL file to from the left hand side.
• Click the Import tab at the top of the page.
• Select Choose File and locate the .SQL file on your device or computer.
• Click Go.
• The .SQL file will be uploaded and imported to the database you’ve selected.

{{brand.brandName}}’s shared web hosting offers 1 GB MySQL databases.

Can I set my database hostname as ‘localhost’?

No, you would need to set the database hostname as the server that it’s on at {{brand.brandName}}. You can find this by going to the MySQL Databases icon within a package. The hostname you’ll need to use will be something similiar to ‘shareddb1b.hosting.stackcp.net’ although it’s likely the database name on your package will be different. ‘localhost’ generally means the MySQL databases are hosted on the same server as the websites, which is quite common in the web hosting industry with hosts that have a ‘single-server’ approach where all services run from the same machine. It’s different at {{brand.brandName}} as we split all services and have a strict ‘one server, one rule’ policy. At the {{brand.brandName}} data centres, web traffic, MySQL traffic and storage are all physically different machines, so ‘localhost’ doesn’t work.

What’s the maximum MySQL database size allowed?

At {{brand.brandName}}, each MySQL database you create can store up to 1024 MB (1 GB) of data. As databases comprise of only text, this is a lot of space in real terms; to put it into perspective, a {{brand.brandName}} customer’s average database size is just 10 MB. In the rare event that you need more than 1024 MB, you’ll need to add an additional database. You aren’t able to add more MySQL databases to websites hosted on our WordPress hosting platform; you would need a Linux package for this.

How do I create a MySQL database?

You can create MySQL databases in seconds directly from your {{brand.brandName}} control panel. This option is unavailable for packages hosted on our WordPress platform due to its WP-optimised nature. If you need to create a MySQL database, you’ll need to move the website to our Linux platform.

To create new MySQL databases:

• 1. Log in to {{brand.cpurl}} and select Manage Hosting.
• 2. Choose Manage next to the hosting package you wish to create a MySQL database for.
• 3. Under Web Tools, select MySQL Databases. Here you can complete the following actions:
  • Create new MySQL databases. Each MySQL database has a maximum size of 1024MB (1GB).
  • Manage existing databases.
  • Add additional MySQL users to databases.
  • Manage your additional MySQL users.
• 4. Under Add a new MySQL Database, choose a name for your database. Database names must be between 6 and 20 characters long, and we automatically add a suffix to avoid name collisions with other users.
• 5. Once you have chosen a name, click Create Database. Your new MySQL database will automatically appear in the Manage MySQL Databases section underneath.

From here you can change the automatically generated password, monitor usage, remove your MySQL database, or log in to your database.

What is MS-SQL?

Microsoft SQL Server is a relational database management system (RDMS) developed by Microsoft. As a database server, it is a software product with the primary function of storing and retrieving data as requested by other software applications. These applications may run either on the same computer or on another computer across a network, such as the internet. A relational database management system means two things. First, data stored inside SQL Server will be housed in a ‘relational database’, and second, the SQL Server is an entire ‘management system’, not just a database. SQL itself stands for Structured Query Language. This is the language used to manage and administer the database server.

Can I view my FTP, email address, or database passwords?

We encrypt all FTP, email and database passwords so they are not visible as plain text inside your control panel. The exception is the very first FTP account: this password is visible on the right hand side when you manage your hosting. You’re able to change all passwords and changes are usually processed immediately.

Please note: the majority of database passwords will be saved in the configuration or connection strings for your website. For example, for WordPress, the database password is visible inside the wp-config.php file.

How do I manage my Microsoft SQL database?

We recommend using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) for managing your Microsoft SQL databases. This industry-standard software provides a comprehensive environment for Microsoft SQL database creation, access, configuration, development, and other management features. It includes a variety of components including visual database tools, code and text editors, object management, boilerplate text management, and more. With SSMS you can deploy, monitor, and upgrade the data-tier components used by your applications, as well as build queries and scripts.

SSMS also helps you download and back up your MS SQL databases, which we recommend you do at regular intervals in the interests of best practice security. You can download the software for free on the Microsoft SSMS download page. To connect remotely you will need to use Server ‘mssql.stackcp.com’.

How do I import a .sql file via the command-line?

MySQL CLI

To import a SQL file via the command line, you can use the mysql command. Here’s how.

mysql -h hostname -u username -p database_name < file.sql

Replace hostname with your database server name. Replace username with your database username. Replace database_name with the name of the database where you want to import the SQL file. Replace file.sql with the path to the SQL file you want to import. After entering the command, you'll be prompted to enter the password for the specified username. Enter the correct password, and the import process will begin. Make sure the SQL file contains valid SQL commands and is in the correct format for the database you're using. If the import is successful, the data from the file will be imported into the specified database.

Compressed Files

If the database file is zipped, then you’ll need to unzip it first. For a .zip file, you can use the unzip command: unzip databasefile.sql.zip. For a .gz file, you can use the gunzip command: gunzip databasefile.sql.gz. From here, you can proceed to import the unzipped file as normal.

WP CLI

To import a SQL file using the WP-CLI tool, you can follow these steps. WP-CLI is a command-line tool for managing WordPress installations, and it includes a command for importing databases.

• 1. Navigate to your WordPress installation: SSH into your package and navigate to the root directory of your WordPress installation.
• 2. Backup your current database (optional but recommended): It's a good practice to create a backup of your existing database before performing an import. You can use the following WP-CLI command to export your database: wp db export. This command will create a SQL dump of your database in the WordPress installation folder. You can use it as a backup in case anything goes wrong.
• 3. Import the SQL file: Use the wp db import command to import the SQL file. Here's the command: wp db import file.sql.
• 4. Verify the import: After the import is complete, you can verify by checking your WordPress site to ensure that the data from the SQL file has been imported correctly.

That's it! You've successfully imported an SQL file into your WordPress database using WP-CLI. This method is especially useful for migrating WordPress sites or importing data into a new WordPress installation.

How do I download or back up my MySQL Database?

There are various ways to export your MySQL databases for safekeeping or transfer. The first method allows you to back up multiple databases via your {{brand.brandName}} control panel and the second on a 'per database' basis via phpMyAdmin.

Backup/Restore

The control panel provides an easy way to download all databases associated with your hosting package. To access this page:

• Access the Backup/Restore page: {{brand.brandName}} > Manage Hosting > [select package] > Backup/Restore.
• Ensure Databases is checked under Backup Type.
• Click Create Backup.
• A backup task will then be queued by our system. Once finished, a download link will be provided; this usually takes 1-2 minutes, depending on the size of the database. You can then download a zip file containing all your MySQL databases.

phpMyAdmin

The phpMyAdmin management software lets you import and export your databases.

• Login to your database via phpMyAdmin ({{brand.brandName}} > Manage Hosting > [select package] > phpMyAdmin).
• Choose the database you want to back up on the left-hand side.
• Click the Export tab at the top of your page.
• Leave Quick selected under Export Method.
• Select your desired format - we recommend "SQL" for most cases.
• Click Go.
• Within a few seconds, a download should begin in your browser.

How do I export a .sql file via the command-line?

If you've set up SSH access for a package, then you can use one of two methods to export a MySQL database via the CLI. If needed, we have two articles on how to connect via SSH using both Windows & MacOS.

MySQL CLI

To export a SQL file via the command line, you can use the mysql command. Here’s how.

mysqldump -h hostname -u username -p database_name > file.sql

Replace hostname with your database server name. Replace username with your database username. Replace database_name with the name of the database where you want to export the SQL file from. Replace file.sql with the path to the SQL file you want to export to. After entering the command, you'll be prompted to enter the password for the specified username. Enter the correct password, and the export process will begin. Make sure the SQL file contains valid SQL commands and is in the correct format for the database you're using. If the export is successful, you should be able to see the sql file within the directory.

WP CLI

To export a SQL file using the WP-CLI tool, you can follow these steps. WP-CLI is a command-line tool for managing WordPress installations, and it includes a command for exporting databases.

wp db export

This command will create a SQL dump of your database in the WordPress installation folder.

Understanding MariaDB and MySQL

MariaDB is a community-developed "fork" of the MySQL relational database management system. It was created to ensure that the technology remains open-source and high-performance. Because the database architecture, indexes, and definitions are identical to MySQL, MariaDB serves as a seamless, backward-compatible, "drop-in" replacement. Our platform currently utilises MariaDB version 10.2.29.

How to Check Your MariaDB Version

If you need to verify the specific version running on your package, follow these steps:

• Navigate to Manage Hosting and open phpMyAdmin.
• Select your specific database from the left-hand sidebar.
• Click the Query tab located at the top of the interface.
• Enter the following SQL command: SELECT VERSION(); and click Go.
• The system will then display the current version string.

Importing and Exporting Data via phpMyAdmin

The phpMyAdmin web interface is the most common tool for managing your database content without using a command line.

How to Import a .sql File

• Access your database through phpMyAdmin (via your control panel).
• From the left-hand panel, select the database that will receive the data.
• Click the Import tab at the top of the page.
• Click Choose File and select the .sql file from your local computer.
• Click Go. The file will be uploaded, and the SQL commands will be executed to populate your database.

How to Download or Back Up a Specific Database

• Log in to phpMyAdmin and select the desired database.
• Click the Export tab at the top.
• Keep the Quick export method selected.
• Choose your format (we recommend SQL for general backups and migrations).
• Click Go, and the file will download to your browser immediately.

Database Hostnames and Connection Settings

Why 'localhost' Does Not Work

In many traditional hosting environments, the website and the database sit on the same physical machine, allowing the use of localhost as a hostname. Our infrastructure is different. We operate a strict "one server, one rule" policy, meaning we separate web traffic, MySQL traffic, and storage onto distinct, optimised hardware. Because your database is physically located on a different machine than your website files, localhost will not resolve correctly.

Finding Your Correct Hostname

You must use the specific external hostname provided in your control panel.

• Click the MySQL Databases icon within your hosting package.
• Locate the hostname provided (it will look similar to shareddb1b.hosting.stackcp.net).
• Use this unique address in your website's configuration files (e.g., wp-config.php).

Database Limits and Creation

Maximum Sizes

On our shared hosting platform, each MySQL database has a maximum capacity of 1024 MB (1 GB). Since databases are comprised primarily of text, 1 GB is a significant amount of data; for context, the average database size for our customers is only around 10 MB. If you require more than 1 GB, you will need to distribute your data across additional databases. Please note that our WordPress-optimised platform is limited to a single database; if you require multiple databases, you should utilise a Linux hosting package instead.

How to Create a New Database

• Log in to your control panel and select Manage Hosting.
• Click Manage next to the relevant package and select MySQL Databases.
• Under Add a new MySQL Database, choose a name (between 6 and 20 characters).
• Click Create Database.
• Once created, you can manage the database, change the automatically generated password, or add additional MySQL users from this same screen.

Microsoft SQL Server (MS-SQL)

What is MS-SQL?

Microsoft SQL Server is a Relational Database Management System (RDMS) developed by Microsoft. It functions as a robust management system, not just a simple data store. It utilises SQL (Structured Query Language) to handle data requests from various applications across a network or the internet.

Managing MS-SQL

We recommend using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) for all management tasks. This industry-standard software provides a complete environment for configuring, monitoring, and developing your MS-SQL databases.

• Remote Connection: To connect via SSMS, use the server address: mssql.stackcp.com.
• Security: We advise regular backups via SSMS to ensure data integrity.
• Download: You can obtain the software for free directly from the official Microsoft SSMS download page.

Password Privacy and Security

For your protection, we encrypt all FTP, email, and database passwords. They are not displayed as plain text within the control panel.

• Exceptions: The password for the primary FTP account is the only one visible on the right-hand side of the hosting management screen.
• Retrieval: If you have forgotten a database password, it can typically be found within your website's configuration strings (for instance, inside the wp-config.php file for WordPress installations).
• Changes: You can update any password through the control panel, and these changes are usually applied instantly.

Advanced Command-Line Management (CLI)

If you have SSH access enabled, you can manage your databases much more efficiently using the command line.

Importing via MySQL CLI

Use the following command to import data: mysql -h hostname -u username -p database_name < file.sql

• Zipped Files: If your file is compressed, unzip it first using unzip databasefile.sql.zip or gunzip databasefile.sql.gz.

Exporting via MySQL CLI

To create a backup file of your database, use the mysqldump command: mysqldump -h hostname -u username -p database_name > file.sql

Using WP-CLI (WordPress Users)

WP-CLI is a powerful tool for managing WordPress via the command line.

• SSH into your package and navigate to your site's root directory.
• Export: Use wp db export to create a backup in your current folder.
• Import: Use wp db import file.sql to populate the database.
• Verification: Check your live site to ensure the data has been integrated correctly.

Full Account Backups

If you need to back up all databases associated with a package at once:

• Navigate to Manage Hosting > [select package] > Backup/Restore.
• Select Databases under the Backup Type.
• Click Create Backup.
• The system will queue the task and provide a download link for a .zip file containing all your databases (usually within 1–2 minutes).

My domain is locked with my current provider, what can I do?

Registrars may ‘lock’ domain names to prevent unauthorised changes. Contact your registrar to request an unlock before transferring to {{brand.brandName}}.

What is the 60-day transfer lock?

Newly registered or recently transferred domains are subject to a 60-day transfer lock which can’t be bypassed.

How can I create a subdomain?

To create a subdomain: Log in to {{link.cpurl}} > Manage Hosting > Manage > Subdomains icon.

What is the document root?

The document root is the folder which the subdirectory will use (e.g. public_html/support).

How can I tell if DNS has propagated for me?

Check by 'pinging' the domain from your Terminal or Command Prompt: ping domain.com. The IP address should match your control panel.

How do I configure G Suite (formerly Google Apps)?

Select 'Manage hosting' > package > 'Manage' > 'DNS Management' and select 'G Suite' or 'Gmail'.

How do I import a .sql file via phpMyAdmin?

Log in via phpMyAdmin, choose the database, and click the Import tab at the top.

What does FQDN mean?

FQDN stands for Fully Qualified Domain Name (e.g. www.example.com).

How do I obtain the authorisation code/EPP code?

Log in to {{brand.cpurl}} > Manage Domains > Manage > Transfer Away.

What is your IPS Tag?

To transfer .uk domains, contact your provider and request they change the Tag to STACK.

How do I setup a domain redirect?

Use the Redirects tool for 301 (Permanent) or 302 (Temporary) redirects, or use an .htaccess file.

What is DNSSEC and how do I use it?

DNSSEC adds authentication to protect against spoofing. Enable via Manage Domains > Options > Manage > DNSSEC Protection.

What details should I use for a WordPress SMTP plugin?

The best SMTP details to use when configuring an SMTP plugin within WordPress when you're using {{brand.brandName}} WordPress hosting are:

• Outgoing mail server: {{email.smtpHostname}}
• Outgoing server port (SMTP): 587
• Use the following type of encrypted connection: TLS

Using these details will allow emails to be sent via SMTP from WordPress forms or allow any other SMTP-based plugins to send.

How do I add another server/include to an SPF record?

If you're using {{brand.brandName}}'s mail server but want to route emails via another provider - such as G Suite, Office 365 or Mailchimp - you may need to add a secondary sending server source to the SPF record.

You can do this by specifying multiple includes within the TXT record within Manage DNS. Each include is separated by a space and if any one include should fail, the SPF mechanism will simply move on to the next one. Below are some common providers you may need to add to your SPF record.

{{brand.brandName}}'s default SPF record: v=spf1 include:spf.stackmail.com a mx -all

G Suite: v=spf1 include:_spf.google.com include:spf.stackmail.com a mx -all

Office 365: v=spf1 include:spf.protection.outlook.com include:spf.stackmail.com a mx -all

Mailchimp: v=spf1 include:servers.mcsv.net include:spf.stackmail.com a mx -all

SendGrid: v=spf1 include:sendgrid.net include:spf.stackmail.com a mx -all

How do I set up email on my Android device?

Here's how to set up a {{brand.brandName}} email on an Android phone or tablet:

• Open the mail application on your Android device.
• Select Add New Account and enter the mailbox name and its password.
• Select Manual Setup and select IMAP Account.
• The User name will need to be the same as the mailbox name.
• Enter {{email.imapHostname}} as the IMAP Server, change the Security Type to SSL, Port 993 should then be used.
• Enter {{email.smtpHostname}} as the SMTP Server, change the Security Type to SSL, Port 465 should be added.
• The outgoing mailserver User name and Password are the username and password for your mailbox.
• Select Sign In and the mailbox will be added to your Android.

How do I migrate emails?

To migrate your emails and mailboxes to {{brand.brandName}}, you can use our in-house Email Migrations tool. This will let you migrate your IMAP mailboxes, your Gmail mailboxes and your Outlook mailboxes into {{brand.brandName}}.

• Login to {{brand.cpurl}}
• Select which package you want to migrate emails in to via Manage Hosting.
• Select the Email Migrations tool that is within the emails section.
• Enter the relevant credentials and then select Sync.

Credentials Required:

• Hostname - This will be the hostname of the mailserver that you are syncing your emails from.
• Username - This will be the mailbox that you are syncing.
• Password - This will be the password of the mailbox at your previous host and of the newly created mailbox at {{brand.brandName}}.

Note: you'll need to have set up the mailboxes within {{brand.brandName}} first using the same password as currently used by the mailbox.

Frequently Asked Questions (Migrations)

• Can I use the tool more than once for the same mailbox? Yes, you can use it as many times as you want. It will only migrate emails that are new, so you won't have any duplicate emails.
• Does it move or copy emails? It copies the emails and folders, so no emails are “removed” from your old mailserver.
• Can I only perform one migration at a time? Yes, you can only perform one mailbox migration at a time per package.
• Where can I find my hostname? Your previous host will be able to tell you. It is worth trying mail.yourDomain.co.uk as that is common.

How do I set up email on my iPhone?

• Head to Settings > Accounts & Passwords > Add Account.
• Select Other > Add Mail Account.
• Input: Name, Email address, Password, and Description.
• Incoming Server: Host Name {{email.imapHostname}}, Username (full email), Password.
• Outgoing Server: Host Name {{email.smtpHostname}}, Username (full email), Password.
• Finally, select the account, go to Outgoing Mail Server settings > Primary Server, and ensure SSL is on with Port 587.

Recommended Thunderbird Settings

Incoming (IMAP):

• Server Name: {{email.imapHostname}}
• Port: 993
• Connection security: SSL/TLS
• Authentication method: 'Normal password'

Outgoing (SMTP):

• Server Name: {{email.smtpHostname}}
• Port: 587
• Connection Security: STARTTLS
• Authentication method: 'Normal password'

“Mailbox does not exist” Bounceback

Mailbox password changes, webmail access and sending/receiving email via a mail client are all available as soon as your mailbox has been created. However, it can take up to 30 minutes for our MX servers to accept new email for your new mailbox. If you receive a “Mailbox does not exist” bounceback within 30 minutes of setup, it should resolve itself as soon as our MX configuration updates.

Can I use ‘mail.domain’ in my mail client?

For scale and redundancy reasons we operate each service from its own hostname. So we always recommend using the most relevant hostname for incoming and outgoing servers: IMAP: {{email.imapHostname}} and SMTP: {{email.smtpHostname}}. However, for compatibility reasons, we automatically setup mail.domain for each of your packages.

Missing IMAP folders on iPhone or iPad

If you can't view subfolders, you likely have an incorrect IMAP Path Prefix.

• Go to Settings > Mail > Accounts > Select Email > Account > Advanced.
• At the bottom, locate 'IMAP Path Prefix'. Leave this blank or try entering 'INBOX'.
• Save changes and check your folders.

How do I setup my mailbox in Outlook?

Automatic Setup: Enter your name, email address, and password. Outlook's 'autodiscover' technology should configure the rest.

Manual Setup:

• Account type: IMAP
• Incoming: {{email.imapHostname}} | Port 993 | SSL
• Outgoing: {{email.smtpHostname}} | Port 587 (or 465) | TLS
• Check 'My outgoing server (SMTP) requires authentication' in More Settings.

SRV Records for Office 365

SRV records can be added via the Manage DNS interface.

• Record 1: Type SRV | Name _sip._tls | Data sipdir.online.lync.com | Priority 100 | Weight 1 | Port 443
• Record 2: Type SRV | Name _sipfederationtls._tcp | Data sipfed.online.lync.com | Priority 100 | Weight 1 | Port 5061

Email Sending Limits

Email Account Limits (SMTP):

• 8,000 messages per address per 24 hours.
• Max 10,000 total recipients per day.
• Max 2,000 unique recipients per day.
• Max 100 individual addresses per email.

Web Server Limits (PHP mail): Max 500 messages per day | Max 5 MB per email.

New Mailbox Limit: 50 messages per day for the first 7 days to prevent abuse.

Autoresponders: Sends once every 8 hours per sender.

SPF and DKIM Records

Adding SPF: Add a TXT record in Manage DNS with data: v=spf1 include:spf.stackmail.com a mx -all

Adding DKIM: Head to the DomainKeys icon in your package management. Add a Selector (any name) and click Add Signature. Verified signatures are added using a 2048-bit public key.

Troubleshooting and Security

• Why can’t I send emails? Check credentials, limits (8k/day for mailboxes, 500/day for web), and MX records (should point to mx.stackmail.com).
• Quotas: Check usage in 'Email Accounts'. You can delete trash/sent items or order 10GB Quota Addons.
• Suspicious Activity: If you see Error 550 regarding suspicious activity, contact support.

Webmail and Signatures

Login at {{email.webMailUrl}} or via the Webmail icon in the control panel. To add a signature: Settings > Identities > Select email address > Signature.

Autoresponders

Control Panel: Manage Hosting > Manage > Autoresponders.

Webmail: Settings > Vacation > Fill details and Save.

Note: Activation may take up to 30 minutes.

I can't connect via FTP, what can I do?

There are a few common reasons why you may not be able to connect successfully via FTP.

1. Make sure you're using the correct hostname

If you’ve not switched the nameservers to point to {{brand.brandName}}, you’ll need to use a different hostname to connect via FTP:

• For Linux and Windows, you can use: {{ftp.ftpHostname}}
• For WordPress you can use: wordpressftp.yourdomain.com

2. Make sure you have the FTP DNS record

If you’ve made any DNS changes you need to make sure that you have a CNAME from:

ftp.yourdomain.com -> CNAME -> {{ftp.ftpHostname}} (or wordpressftp.yourdomain.com on the WordPress platform).

Without this CNAME you won’t be able to connect using ftp.yourdomain.com. Please note DNS changes can take roughly 1 hour to propagate.

3. Make sure FTP is unlocked

At {{brand.brandName}} we utilise an FTP lock system to ensure FTP can only be accessed when required which greatly reduces the risk of compromise to a hosting package. You'll need to make sure this is unlocked to connect via FTP, to do this:

• Login to {{link.cpurl}}
• Select the hosting package you want to unlock FTP for from Manage Hosting
• You can then select to unlock FTP by time, or by a specific IP address.

When FTP has been unlocked you'll be shown the time the unlock expires and the option to lock it again.

4. Use the correct password

Make sure you are using the correct password! You’ll need to use the password that is located within the FTP Details section of the package.

How do I upload a large file via FTP?

The maximum FTP upload/download size is 5GB, above which you’ll need to use another method to transfer larger files sizes. One way we’d recommend is to enable SSH action and then use a client like WinSCP to upload over SSH. There are no limits in this case.

What are the FTP hostnames?

If you wish to access the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) service before you point your DNS to {{brand.brandName}}, you can use the hostname of our FTP service directly.

• For Linux and Windows, please use: {{ftp.ftpHostname}}
• For Managed WordPress, please use: wordpress{{ftp.ftpHostname}}

Why do DNS changes take 24-48 hours to propagate?

Each domain has at least two nameservers assigned to it and these nameservers hold the records for the domain. If a server somewhere else in the world queries the nameservers for DNS records, it will most often take a local copy of the DNS record. This means that next time it needs to know what IP a domain resolves to, it will have the answer already stored.

Once the initial changes have been made to the two original nameservers, the changes will filter out through the rest of the servers in the world until everything else is up to date. It is this that can take 24-48 hours and is known propagation.

Can I view my FTP, email address, or database passwords?

We encrypt all FTP, email and database passwords so they are not visible as plain text inside your control panel. The exception is the very first FTP account: this password is visible on the right hand side when you manage your hosting. You're able to change all passwords and changes are usually processed immediately.

Please note: the majority of database passwords will be saved in the configuration or connection strings for your website. For example, for WordPress, the database password is visible inside the wp-config.php file.

How do I connect via FTP?

Connecting via FTP to your web hosting is quick and easy. Ensure you have an FTP client available. We'd recommend FileZilla.

• Head to Manage Hosting
• Select Manage
• On the right-hand side of the control panel, you'll see the FTP panel. You'll need to unlock FTP by either time or IP address
• You'll see the FTP Details section that contains your FTP Server (Host), Username and Password
• Enter these details into FileZilla and select Quickconnect

You should now be connected to your web hosting via FTP. If you're having trouble connecting via FTP, we'd recommend reviewing the guide called I can't connect via FTP, what can I do? for common steps to diagnose what's wrong.

What details should I use for a WordPress SMTP plugin?

The best SMTP details to use when configuring an SMTP plugin within WordPress when you're using {{brand.brandName}} WordPress hosting are:

• Outgoing mail server: {{email.smtpHostname}}
• Outgoing server port (SMTP): 587
• Use the following type of encrypted connection: TLS

Using these details will allow emails to be sent via SMTP from WordPress forms or allow any other SMTP-based plugins to send.

Can I rename a mailbox?

It's not possible to rename a mailbox once it's been created. To get around this, you can create a new mailbox within {{brand.brandName}} and use the Email Migration tool to sync one mailbox to the other, then remove the original mailbox. You'd use the hostname {{email.imapHostname}} within the Email Migration tool and set the mailbox password of the new mailbox to match that of the old mailbox. You can then copy emails from one to the other.

Can I import contacts into Webmail?

Yes, you can import a contact list from a previous mail client into {{brand.brandName}} webmail. To do so:

• Log in to Webmail for the mailbox.
• Head to the Address Book.
• Select the Import icon from the top-left.
• You can then select either a .CSV file or a vCard file.

Does the email migration delete any emails?

No, the email migration won't remove any emails from the mail server where emails are being migrated from or any emails on the {{brand.brandName}} mail server. It's a 'non-destructive' form of migration, so emails won't be duplicated or deleted. Changes will simply be added into the emails already at {{brand.brandName}}.

Will the email migration tool cause downtime to mail?

No, the email migration won't cause any downtime to emails. It doesn't affect DNS or the ability to send or receive emails: it simply performs an IMAP sync to move emails from one server to another. There will be no downtime caused by the use of the email migration tool.

How long does an email migration take?

An email migration will usually take about 30 minutes to complete. However, this can vary depending on the size of the original mailbox being migrated. For an average size mailbox of 1-2Gb, an email migration will usually take 30 minutes.

I can't connect via FTP, what can I do?

There are a few common reasons why you may not be able to connect successfully via FTP.

1. Make sure you're using the correct hostname

If you’ve not switched the nameservers to point to {{brand.brandName}}, you’ll need to use a different hostname to connect via FTP:

• For Linux and Windows, you can use: {{ftp.ftpHostname}}
• For WordPress you can use: wordpressftp.yourdomain.com

2. Make sure you have the FTP DNS record

If you’ve made any DNS changes you need to make sure that you have a CNAME from: ftp.yourdomain.com -> CNAME -> {{ftp.ftpHostname}} (or wordpressftp.yourdomain.com on the WordPress platform). Without this CNAME you won’t be able to connect using ftp.yourdomain.com. Please note DNS changes can take roughly 1 hour to propagate.

3. Make sure FTP is unlocked

At {{brand.brandName}} we utilise an FTP lock system to ensure FTP can only be accessed when required which greatly reduces the risk of compromise to a hosting package. You'll need to make sure this is unlocked to connect via FTP, to do this:

• Login to {{link.cpurl}}
• Select the hosting package you want to unlock FTP for from Manage Hosting
• You can then select to unlock FTP by time, or by a specific IP address.

When FTP has been unlocked you'll be shown the time the unlock expires and the option to lock it again.

4. Use the correct password

Make sure you are using the correct password! You’ll need to use the password that is located within the FTP Details section of the package.

Which PHP functions are disabled on your WordPress platform?

Our WordPress platform has been specifically designed to offer the best security, performance and reliability for WordPress. As part of this protection, a small number of PHP functions have been disabled for security reasons:

• exec
• opcache_get_configuration
• opcache_get_status
• passthru
• parse_ini_file
• popen
• proc_open
• shell_exec
• show_source
• system

If you have a genuine use case for any of these functions, you can still host your WordPress site on our Linux platform.

Can I use parent paths in Classic ASP?

ASP Parent Paths are disabled on our platform. As an alternative to using "../" notation, you can use virtual paths referencing the full folder path from the URL root.

Example conversion:

<!--#include file="../_fpclass/fpdblib.inc" -->

To:

<!--#include virtual="/_fpclass/fpdblib.inc"-->

How can I show detailed ASP errors?

By default, Windows Server hides application errors. You can override this by adding the following to a 'web.config' file:

<configuration> <system.webServer> <httpErrors errorMode="Detailed" /> </system.webServer> <system.web> <customErrors mode="Off" /> <compilation debug="true" /> </system.web> </configuration>

Is ionCube PHP Loader installed?

Availability differs by platform:

• Linux: Available for all currently supported versions (5.3 - 7.2).
• WordPress: ionCube Loader is available.
• Windows: ionCube is not available.

How do I change PHP version?

As standard, we run PHP 7+. To switch, head to {{brand.cpurl}} > Manage Hosting > [Select Package] > “Switch PHP Version”.

• Available Linux versions: 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 7.0, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4.
• Managed WordPress Platform: Fixed at PHP 7.0 (and above) and cannot be changed.

Why is MySQL support missing from the PHP installation?

In PHP 7+, the legacy MySQL module has been replaced by 'mysqli' or 'PDO_MySQL' extensions. If your code relies on the old module, we recommend updating it or running an older PHP version (5.3–5.6) on our Linux platform.

Why is my website not able to send mail?

To improve deliverability, the 'Sender' address must match the domain name of the website used to send the message. If the header is set to an unassigned domain, the message will not be sent.

Can I change my website's PHP configuration?

Yes, via Manage Hosting > [Package] > PHP Configuration. Alternatively, modify the ~/public_html/.user.ini file directly for advanced options. Note that configuration is parsed every 5 minutes.

Testing: Create a file (e.g., "info.php") with the following content to verify settings via phpinfo():

<?php phpinfo(); ?>

What are the limits for Uploads and Memory?

• Maximum Upload Size: Set to 128M by default; adjustable via PHP Configuration.
• Memory Limit: Default value is 128M. Raising this too high can cause performance issues or server instability.

The Setmore plugin for WordPress enables your website visitors to access your Booking Page with one click. Embed a 'Book Now' button on any site page in your WordPress theme and accept appointments 24/7.

Install the Setmore plugin for WordPress

• 1. Log into your WordPress account and navigate to 'Plugins' (under the left-side menu bar).
• 2. Click ‘Add New’ and type ‘Setmore’ into the search bar.
• 3. Find the Setmore plugin and click Install Now > Activate. When successfully activated, ‘Active’ will display.
• 4. The Setmore plugin will now appear in the left-side menu bar. Click it and either log into your existing Setmore account or create a new one.
• 5. Follow the prompts to choose how your 'Book Now' button appears. Once complete, you're ready to take appointments from your WordPress site.

Note: If you're viewing WordPress in the legacy WP-Admin dashboard, 'Plugins' can be found in the top menu.

Link WordPress to your Setmore account🔗

Use a text snippet to add your booking button

• 1. In WordPress, open a page or post to display your booking button.
• 2. Once you've chosen the location, type [setmore] and your booking button will instantly appear.

Enable the booking button with ‘Add Widget’

• 1. Head to your WordPress dashboard and select Appearance > Widgets.
• 2. Locate the Setmore widget and choose where your booking button will appear. Click ‘Add Widget‘ and you’re all set.

Drag and drop the Setmore widget

• 1. Go to your WordPress dashboard and select Appearance > Widgets.
• 2. Find the Setmore widget and drag and drop it into any of the components listed (to the left of the widgets). Your button appears automatically.

Note: Eligible areas to place your widget depend on your chosen WordPress theme.

Install the plugin manually

If you have access to the FTP server where your WordPress installation is located, you can also download and activate the Setmore plugin manually.

Visit the Setmore plugin page on the WordPress website here.

• 1. Download the plugin file.
• 2. Upload the 'setmore-appointments' folder to the /wp-content/plugins directory. This is located in the same place you have WordPress installed on your server.
• 3. Do not change the folder name, otherwise, the plugin may not work correctly.

How do I run Composer via SSH?

At {{brand.brandName}} we run multiple different versions of PHP. On our SSH servers, the execution of commands like “composer” will run with our default, system-level PHP that is also used for internal tools at {{brand.brandName}}. This is a thin version of PHP without all the modules you may be used-to on your website. To enable use of this command, you need to specify the full path to the version of PHP that you wish to run the script as. You can do this on the command line itself.

Here's an example of using PHP 7.1 to execute Composer:

/usr/bin/php71 -f /usr/bin/composer

So the complete command would become:

/usr/bin/php71 -f /usr/bin/composer install

A list of available PHP versions is presented to you in the message of the day (MOTD) once you login to SSH.

How do I connect via SSH on an Apple Mac?

To connect via SSH on a Mac you can follow the instructions below:

• Log in to {{brand.cpurl}}.
• Head to Manage Hosting and select Manage on the hosting package you want to connect to.
• Select the SSH Access icon.
• You’ll now need to generate a public key, on a Mac this is done via the Terminal utility. Open Terminal on the Mac.
• Enter the following command into the Terminal: ssh-keygen
• Press Enter.
• You’ll be prompted to enter the location that you want the public and private keys saving. In this case, we’ll keep this as the default location. Press Enter.
• You’ll be prompted for a passphrase, in this guide we’ll just leave this empty. If you enter one, make sure you remember this as you’ll be prompted for this later. Press Enter.
• You’ll be asked to confirm the passphrase - since we’ve left this empty just press Enter.
• Your keys will have been generated and the public key will have been saved in a specified location, in our example, it has been saved in: /Users/user/.ssh/id_rsa.pub.
• Copy the path and enter the following command: cat /Users/user/.ssh/id_rsa.pub.
• The key will be outputted, copy the whole key from the start to the end.
• Paste the key back into the Public Key field in the SSH Access section. The handle should be added automatically. Press Add Public Key.
• Please note that can take up to 5 minutes.
• Head back to Terminal and enter the SSH username and hostname found at the top of the SSH Access section, it should be something like domain.com@ssh.stackcp.com. You’ll need to prefix it with the ssh command as follows: ssh domain.com@ssh.stackcp.com.
• You’ll be prompted to confirm you would like to connect, simply type yes and press enter.
• You should have successfully connected via SSH from your Mac to your hosting package at {{brand.brandName}}.

How do I import a .sql file via the command-line?

If you've set up SSH access for a package then you can run the following command-line instructions to import a MySQL database:

mysql -h hostname -u username -p username < databasefile.sql

The above command connects to your database with the -h (hostname) -u (username) -p (database name in this case) then the unzipped file < databasefile.sql. You will then be prompted to enter a password for the database. Input the password and press enter.

Compressed files

If the database file is zipped then you will need to unzip it first, then you can use one of the following commands:

For a .zip file you can use the unzip command:

unzip databasefile.sql.zip mysql -h hostname -u username -p username < databasefile.sql

For a .gz file you can use the gunzip command:

gunzip databasefile.sql.gz mysql -h hostname -u username -p username < databasefile.sql

How do I connect via SSH?

It's only recommended that you connect to your package via SSH if you're familiar with the command line interface.

Windows

If you're using Windows, you'll need to download an SSH Client to access SSH. This guide uses PuTTY which is a free SSH client and can be downloaded here: https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/latest.html

• Once you have downloaded PuTTY, search for and open PuTTY Key Generator on your computer.
• Select Generate and move the mouse around in the gray box to generate some Randomness. This will generate a public key.
• Add a passphrase (password). This is what you'll need to put into the command line interface.
• Log in to {{brand.cpurl}}, head to Manage Hosting and select the package that you want SSH access for. Then select, SSH Access from under the Security section.
• Then input the public key that was generated from PuTTYgen into the Public Key box. A handle will be generated automatically. Then select Add Public Key.
• Head back to PuTTY Gen and select Save private key. Save this as any name you want.
• Open PuTTY. Down the left-hand side, select to expand the SSH menu and then select Auth.
• Select Browse and add the private key you have just saved.
• Head back to Session using the left-hand menu and add the host name ‘ssh.{{brand.cpurl}}’ and select Open.
• The command line interface will be show. Then login with your domain (e.g. domain.co.uk).
• You'll then be prompted for the passphrase that you set earlier. Enter this.
• You'll now have access to SSH for your site.

How do I connect via SSH using 2FA?

It's only recommended that you connect to your package via SSH if you're familiar with the command-line interface. Here is how to connect using two-factor authentication (2FA).

Windows

If you're using Windows you will want to download an SSH client to access SSH. You can download PuTTy from the following page: https://www.putty.org/.

• You will want to first download the Google Authenticator app which is available for both iOS and Android devices.
• Login via {{brand.cpurl}}, and head to Manage Hosting and select the package that you require SSH access for. Then select SSH Access from under the Security section.
• Under Set SSH password, set the password and make note of this for later on. Then select Set up Authenticator and proceed to scan the QR code on your iOS or Android device.

Note: You will need to wait 30 minutes before making any connection attempts.

• Open PuTTY. Enter the hostname 'ssh.stackcp.com' and select Open.
• The command-line interface will request you for a login. Log in with your domain (e.g. example.co.uk).
• You will then be prompted for a verification code. Open Google Authenticator and enter your code.
• Enter the SSH password which was set-up earlier.
• You'll now have access to SSH through 2FA.

What is the PHP memory_limit?

The PHP memory_limit is the maximum amount of server memory that each PHP script can use. The official PHP documentation explains this in greater detail. “This sets the maximum amount of memory in bytes that a script is allowed to allocate. This helps prevent poorly written scripts from eating up all available memory on a server.”. PHP memory usage is typically managed by the PHP interpreter and the web server running PHP scripts. PHP has a default memory limit setting, which restricts the amount of memory a script can use.

The default value for PHP memory is 128M. This can be raised if an application or website needs more memory. It's important to note that allocating too much memory to PHP can also have negative consequences, such as slowing down the application or causing other performance issues. This may be due to a specific PHP process using far more memory than what is available.

When a script exceeds the memory limit that's been set for the server, an error similar to the following will be logged:

Fatal error: Allowed memory size of x bytes exhausted (tried to allocate x bytes) in /example/php/script. PHP Fatal error: Out of memory (allocated x) (tried to allocate x bytes) in /example/php/script

You can update the PHP memory limit for your site through the PHP configuration option within your hosting package.

Can I use sudo on shared hosting?

Sudo is a Linux command that allows a user to run commands as a 'super user', root. The use of the sudo command is not permitted on our shared hosting platform, and its use will result in an SSH access violation and your SSH access being suspended. This is noted in the welcome message when connecting to the shared services via an SSH connection.

If the sudo command is used the terminal should close immediately, killing the current session. Attempting to reconnect should result in the terminal closing without warning. Sudo is not permitted to ensure the security and integrity of our shared hosting platform.

Can I point an A record to a package and get the free SSL certificate?

No. To be able to apply the free SSL certificate, your site(s) need to use the {{brand.brandName}} nameservers. This is because the SSL certificates are installed locally to the {{brand.brandName}} platform.

Why do I get an ERR_SSL_UNRECOGNIZED-NAME-ALERT error?

If you're trying to access the temporary URL (i.e. example-co-uk.staging.com) you may get an ERR_SSL_UNRECOGNIZED-NAME-ALERT error. This will be because the temporary URL can't load over SSL (via https://). To allow the temporary URL to resolve you'll need to ensure it loads over http://.

• Check the WordPress site and home URL and make sure it's set to load over http://
• Disable Force HTTPS in the control panel
• Ensure you don't have the Really Simple SSL plugin active, you can disable it to prevent it forcing https://
• Remove any redirects in the .htaccess file

You may need to try an incognito browser tab after making any corrections to ensure https:// is not cached in your browser.

Can I install a third-party certificate?

Yes: if you have an existing external or third-party SSL certificate you can install this at {{brand.brandName}}. Your certificate provider will need to provide the following sections for us to be able to install the SSL certificate:

• Certificate
• Private Key
• CA Bundle / Intermediate Certificate

These details will need to be entered within the SSL/TLS section within a {{brand.brandName}} hosting package: Manage Hosting -> [select package] -> SSL/TLS.

Note: Your Private Key will have been provided when you generated a CSR using your organisation's details. If you have any questions about this, the certificate provider will be able to help.

Please also note that SSL certificates can take up to 30 minutes to install on to the web server. If your A records are then pointing to the IP address of the hosting package then your site should show as secure. If you don’t have an external SSL then you can either apply the free {{brand.brandName}} SSL, or purchase a {{brand.brandName}} SSL from {{brand.cpurl}}.

How can I generate a Certificate Signing Request?

When ordering an SSL certificate, you’re often required to generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR). This is an encoded block of text that the Certificate Authority require when issuing an SSL certificate. It contains information about the organization, domain name and locality.

Using a CSR Generator

The easiest way to generate a CSR is to use the online generator here: https://csrgenerator.com/

You will need to make sure that you keep a record of both the CSR and Private Key that are provided to you.

How do I activate my free SSL?

Every {{brand.brandName}} hosting package comes with a free wildcard SSL certificate, enabling you to use the more secure 'HTTPS' protocol to keep your site users secure. To activate the SSL, you’ll need to make sure you’ve pointed the domain name to our nameservers.

With that done, you need to:

• Within Manage Services, select Manage Hosting
• Within Manage Hosting, select Manage on the hosting package on which you wish to activate the SSL
• Under Security, click on the SSL/TLS icon
• You will then see your domain name and an option to Activate Free SSL next to it - select this and the SSL will be applied to your domain
• If you’d like all your visitors to use SSL connections (i.e. for HTTPS to always be used), simply select the Enable option at the bottom of the page

Once the SSL Certificate has been activated, it will take up to 30 minutes to secure your website. This is due to the changes needed to be made on our load balancers.

Why should you use Force HTTPS on your website?

Using HTTPS instead of HTTP means that communications between your browser and a website is encrypted via the use of an SSL (Secure Socket Layer). Even if your website doesn’t handle sensitive data, it’s a good idea to make sure your website loads securely over HTTPS. It’s now becoming a requirement for many new browser features as well as potentially having an impact on search engine rankings. To make sure your website loads securely, you need to make sure that it is prefixed with HTTPS instead of HTTP. This can be done in a few different ways. Outlined below are the most common ways to do this.

Use the Force HTTPS tool

• Login to {{brand.cpurl}} and head to Manage Hosting and select Manage on the package you want to force HTTPS for
• Select the SSL/TLS icon
• Select Enable Force HTTPS. This will redirect website users to HTTPS. As long as the website has an SSL certificate and all content loads via HTTPS, the site should show as secure.

Using a .htaccess file

Another way that has the potential for more specific configuration is to use a .htaccess file rule. If you don’t have a .htaccess file, you can create one via FTP or File Manager and then add the code:

RewriteEngine On RewriteCond %{env:HTTPS} !on RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://www.example.com/$1 [R,L]

If you already have a .htaccess file then make sure you don’t duplicate the line: RewriteEngine On. If after enabling force HTTPS the website shows insecure, then you’ll need to make sure that:

• You have an SSL certificate on the site
• You don’t have mixed content

My website shows as insecure due to mixed content?

Please note that if you have recently activated a {{brand.brandName}} SSL certifcate for your domain, it can take up to 30 minutes to be installed across our load balancers.

After an SSL has been installed, the website still loads with an insecure warning

If the website is now showing your certificate but still has an insecure warning, this is often caused by 'mixed content' on the website. This means there is content on the page that is being loaded through a 'http://' URL. For a webpage to be classed as secure, all content must be loaded over HTTPS. This includes external images, JavaScript and CSS. You should search the source code of your website to locate the 'http://' references and update or remove them.

Finding Mixed Content

When visiting an HTTPS page in Google Chrome, the browser alerts you to mixed content as errors and warnings in the JavaScript console. You can open the console either from the View menu: View -> Developer -> JavaScript Console, or by right-clicking the page, selecting 'Inspect Element', then selecting 'Console'. You need to remove or update the 'http://' URLs listed in these errors and warnings in your sites source.

Alternatively, you can use the site ‘Why No Padlock?’ to identify mixed content: https://www.whynopadlock.com/. For WordPress sites, you can use the SSL Insecure Content Fixer plugin that should identify all mixed content and replace it with a secure version for you. You can find the plugin here: https://en-gb.wordpress.org/plugins/ssl-insecure-content-fixer/. Once all references on your website are called using https:// URLs, your site will load securely in your browser.

How long is website data cached for at a CDN node?

The CDN itself is used to cache static content. By default, the following file types are cached for 60 minutes before being purged automatically:

bmp class css csv doc docx ejs eot eps gif ico jar jpeg jpg js mid midi otf pdf pict pls png ppt pptx ps svg svgz swf tif tiff webp woff woff2 xls xls2 robts.txt

What is a CAA record?

CAA (Certificate Authority Authorisation) records are DNS (Domain Name System) resource records that specify which certificate authorities (CAs) are authorised to issue SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) certificates for a specific domain. These records help domain owners maintain control over the issuance of SSL/TLS certificates for their domains and enhance security by preventing unauthorised CAs from issuing certificates.

How can I add a CAA record?

To add a CAA record, you'll need to:

• Locate your hosting package or domain name
• Select Options
• Select Manage
• Go to Manage DNS, under Domain Names

From here, you should be able to select a CAA record type to add.

Here's how CAA records work:

• Domain Owner's Control: When you own a domain and want to control which CAs can issue SSL/TLS certificates for that domain, you can create CAA records in your domain's DNS settings.
• CAA Record Format: A CAA record typically consists of Flag, Tag, and Value.
• Flag: A flag that specifies the meaning of the record.
• Tag: A tag that indicates the property or issue for which the record is being created.
• Value: The value associated with the tag, which specifies the CA(s) that are authorised to issue certificates for the domain.

Flag Values:

• "0" indicates that the CA specified in the CAA record is the only one authorised to issue certificates
• "128" indicates that the CA specified in the CAA record is authorised, but other CAs are not prevented from issuing certificates

Tag Values:

• "issue" is the most commonly used tag, which specifies the CAs that are allowed to issue certificates for the domain
• Other tags, like "iodef" (for incident reporting) and "issuewild" (for wildcard certificates), can be used for specific purposes

Example of a CAA record:

example.com. CAA 0 issue "ca.example.net"

In this example:

• The domain is "example.com."
• The flag is set to "0," indicating that only the CA specified in the "issue" tag is authorised to issue certificates for the domain
• The "issue" tag specifies "ca.example.net" as the authorised CA

With this CAA record in place, only the CA "ca.example.net" is allowed to issue SSL/TLS certificates for "example.com.". If another CA attempts to issue a certificate for this domain, it should check the CAA records and honour the restrictions specified in them. CAA records are a useful security mechanism to prevent unauthorised certificate issuance and enhance the overall security of websites and online services.

Understanding Unmanaged VPS Hosting: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

Unmanaged VPS hosting is a popular option for tech-savvy users and businesses seeking full control over their server environment. This article provides an insight into what Unmanaged VPS hosting is and its various aspects.

What is Unmanaged VPS Hosting?

Unmanaged VPS hosting offers a virtual private server without additional management services from the hosting provider. Clients are responsible for all aspects of server management, including software installation, updates, security, and maintenance.

Key Characteristics of Unmanaged VPS Hosting

• Complete Control: Users have root access to their server, providing the freedom to configure and manage the server according to specific needs.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Since it requires users to manage their servers, Unmanaged VPS is typically more affordable than managed alternatives.
• Customizability: It allows users to tailor server configurations, install custom software, and adjust resources as needed.
• Technical Expertise Required: To effectively manage an Unmanaged VPS, users should possess technical knowledge in server administration and troubleshooting.
• Performance: Unmanaged VPS hosting can offer high performance, as users can optimize the server for their specific applications and workload.
• Scalability: Similar to Managed VPS, these servers offer scalability in terms of resources, suitable for growing businesses and fluctuating demands.
• No Frills Approach: This hosting type is ideal for those who prefer a hands-on approach and have the necessary skills to maintain a server environment.

Who Should Opt for Unmanaged VPS Hosting?

Unmanaged VPS is best suited for users with technical expertise in server management, including system administrators, developers, and businesses with IT teams. It's ideal for those who require a high degree of customization and control over their hosting environment.

Conclusion

Unmanaged VPS hosting is a powerful and cost-effective solution for those who are comfortable with managing their server infrastructure. It offers flexibility, performance, and scalability, making it a suitable choice for technically proficient users and businesses with specific hosting needs.

How do I point my domain to my Unmanaged VPS?

To point your domain name to your VPS, you must replace the A record of the domain name to the IP address of the VPS.

All you need to do is replace the default IP address with the VPS IP address:

domain.com -> A Record -> VPS IP Address *.domain.com -> A record -> VPS IP Address

Allowing about an hour for propagation, the domain should then point to the VPS.

IPv6

You don't need to add an IPv6 address to your domain for it to work, as ISPs will automatically point you to the IPv4 (A record) address if there is no IPv6 (AAAA record) for the domain. If you want to add an IPv6 address for your domain to point to your VPS, though, that can be done by going to the Server Overview of the VPS >> Manage Networking. From here, you can then click Request IPv6 Address to get a range for your VPS. From the given range, you'll then just need to point your domain via an AAAA record to a particular IPv6 address from the given range.

Note: Please keep in mind that you will also need to configure the VPS itself to accept connections over the new IPv6 address.

How do I reboot my Unmanaged VPS?

A VPS can be rebooted using the VPS control panel by following these steps:

• Select the VPS section from the control panel.
• Select Options > Manage for the VPS in question.
• Within the server overview dashboard, select Reboot.

This will then force a reboot of the virtual machine. Once you select this option, you should see the VPS status change and it should begin booting again.

How do I connect to an Unmanaged VPS using SSH?

Every VPS from {{brand.brandName}} are pre-configured to be accessible using SSH.

To connect to your VPS via SSH, you'll need to ensure you have an SSH client available. If you’re running Mac OS or Linux, you should be able to utilise your terminal application to connect. If you’re running Windows, we’d recommend downloading and using PuTTY to connect: https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/latest.html

Connection steps:

• Load the Manage VPS.
• Head to Options -> Manage on the VPS you wish to connect to.
• In the VPS Information section on the right-hand side, you’ll note the IP Address, Username and Password.
• Open PuTTY and in the Host Name (or IP address) field, add the IP address from the VPS Information section. Select Open.
• You should be prompted with login as: to which you’ll just need to enter the username.
• Finally, you’ll then be prompted for the password; simply enter the password for the VPS as found in the control panel.

You should now be connected to your VPS via SSH.

How can I access my unmanaged VPS if I have lost external network access?

If you lose access to your virtual machine because of an incorrect firewall rule or a software update gone wrong, you can still gain access by using VNC. VNC can be used on both Linux and Windows virtual machines running on an Unmanaged VPS.

Using VNC:

• Head to the VPS section and select Manage.
• Select Rescue VPS.
• Under Unlock VNC by IP Address enter the IP address you wish to unlock VNC access for and select Unlock.
• Make a note of the VNC Hostname - this should say something like 'vnc.stackvps.com::6157'. Also, make a note of the password.
• With both the VNC hostname and password, use a VNC client (such as Tight VNC) to gain access to your virtual machine.

Installing & Migrating WooCommerce to BrackenHost

This guide explains how to install WooCommerce on a new WordPress site hosted with BrackenHost, and the safest ways to migrate an existing WooCommerce store.

Before you start (important)

WooCommerce stores include more than pages and posts. A good migration must preserve:

• Products, categories, tags, attributes
• Orders, customers, coupons
• Payment/shipping/tax settings
• Media (product images)
• Permalinks (URLs) to avoid SEO and broken links
• Email sending configuration

If your store is live and taking orders, plan a short “freeze” window (or use a staged migration) to avoid missing new orders during the move.

Installing WooCommerce on a new WordPress site

Step 1: Confirm your WordPress site is working

Make sure you can log into WordPress admin (/wp-admin) and your site loads normally over HTTPS.

Step 2: Install the WooCommerce plugin

In WordPress admin:

• Go to Plugins → Add New
• Search for WooCommerce
• Click Install Now, then Activate

Step 3: Run the WooCommerce setup wizard

WooCommerce will guide you through:

• Store address and currency
• Shipping zones and shipping methods
• Payment methods (Stripe / PayPal / etc.)
• Tax settings (optional, depending on your setup)

Step 4: Install your theme (or confirm compatibility)

Choose a WooCommerce-compatible theme and confirm:

• Product pages display correctly
• Cart and checkout pages work
• Your theme supports blocks or WooCommerce templates as needed

Migrating an existing WooCommerce store (recommended approach)

There are two common migration paths:

• Full site migration (best for most stores)
• Product-only import (only if you’re rebuilding from scratch and do not need orders/customers)

Option A: Full site migration (best for most WooCommerce stores)

This migrates the entire WordPress site: WooCommerce data + theme + plugins + settings.

Step 1: Create the destination WordPress site (on BrackenHost)

• Set up WordPress on the new hosting package.
• Ensure SSL is enabled (HTTPS).

Step 2: Put the source store into “maintenance mode”

To prevent new orders changing the database during migration:

• Enable a maintenance mode plugin, or
• Temporarily disable checkout (if you know how), or
• Schedule a quiet window

Step 3: Migrate the site using a migration plugin

Common migration plugins:

• All-in-One WP Migration
• UpdraftPlus (backup + restore)
• Duplicator

General process (varies by plugin):

• Create a full backup/export on the old host
• Upload/import it on the new BrackenHost WordPress site
• Run the plugin’s restore process

Step 4: Update URLs if the domain changes

If you’re changing domain, you must update site URLs. Common methods:

• WordPress search/replace tool (recommended)
• Plugin-based search/replace
• WP CLI (advanced)

You must update URLs in:

• WordPress content
• WooCommerce settings
• Media links
• Serialized data (use a proper WordPress-aware tool)

Step 5: Check critical WooCommerce functions

After restore, test:

• Add product to cart
• Checkout end-to-end (use a test payment method if possible)
• Order confirmation email
• Customer account login
• Shipping & tax calculation
• Stock changes after order

Key pages: Cart, Checkout, My Account, Shop/Product pages

Step 6: Switch DNS when ready

When you’re happy with testing:

• Update your domain DNS to point to the new hosting
• Keep the old host active briefly (24–48 hours) as a safety buffer during DNS propagation

Option B: Product-only WooCommerce store migration (only for “rebuild” projects)

Use this if you only need products and will not migrate orders/customers/settings.

Step 1: Install WooCommerce on the new site

Follow the install steps above.

Step 2: Export products from the old store

In WordPress admin on the old store:

• Go to Products → All Products
• Use Export (CSV)

Step 3: Import products to the new store

On the new store:

• Go to Products → All Products
• Use Import and upload the CSV
• Map fields carefully (SKU, price, stock, categories)

Step 4: Move media

Product images may not come across perfectly via CSV; you may need to:

• Migrate uploads folder, or
• Re-attach images manually, or
• Use a media migration plugin

WooCommerce store Post-migration checklist (do these every time)

• Permalinks: Settings → Permalinks → Save (forces rewrite rules refresh)
• Caching: clear/refresh cache if enabled
• SSL: confirm checkout pages load over HTTPS with no mixed content
• Payment provider: confirm webhooks/callback URLs match the new site
• Emails: confirm your “from” name/address and SMTP/mail setup
• SEO: confirm sitemap, robots.txt, and canonical URLs
• Performance: test homepage/product/category/checkout performance

WooCommerce store Common issues & fixes

Checkout errors after migration

• Re-save permalinks
• Confirm SSL and mixed content are fixed
• Check payment plugin settings + webhook URL

Images missing

• Uploads folder didn’t migrate
• Fix by restoring /wp-content/uploads/

Links still point to the old domain

Run a proper WordPress search/replace (do not manually edit the database unless you know what you’re doing)

Orders missing

You likely did a product-only migration; use full migration for order/customer data

Policy Breaches and Abuse

{{brand.brandName}} impose a strict Acceptable Use Policy and Terms of Service which customers must adhere-to. These cover illegal activities, prohibit certain content hosted through us and includes a zero-tolerance spam policy. A {{brand.brandName}} customer breaking these terms and conditions could have our services withdrawn from them, and potentially be reported to the authorities for illegal activity. If you suspect any {{brand.brandName}} customer of abusing our rules, you should report to them to us.

How do I use traceroute?

Traceroute is a tool used for diagnosing network-related issues. It does this by displaying the route to the destination specified - a domain name or an IP address - and records how long it takes packets to reach that destination. Occasionally we may ask you to perform a traceroute. Here's how to do it on our 3 hosting platforms:

Windows

• Click 'Start'
• Type in Run and then click on the icon that appears (a box should open)
• Type cmd and then press OK to open command prompt
• In the window that appears, type in: tracert yourdomain.com (or the IP address depending on the issue) and then press 'Enter'

Apple iOS

• Browse to Applications -> Utilities -> Network Utility -> Traceroute
• Enter the domain or IP address you need to diagnose, then select Trace

Linux

• Open a Terminal window
• Type: traceroute yourdomain.com (or replace 'yourdomain.com' with an IP address if requested to do so)

PCI Compliance

Yes, {{brand.brandName}}'s hosting is fully PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliant and uses ISO 27001-approved data centres so will pass PCI compliance checks.

How do I set up a cron job?

You can set up a cron job or 'scheduled task' in the Scheduled Tasks section of your hosting packages control panel: Manage Hosting -> Manage -> Scheduled Tasks. These are commands set to run regularly at intervals of minutes, or specific times every hour, day, or month.

Three things to consider:

• Command: Usually a WGET to a domain or a PHP script. Use the correct version of PHP for your website using the commands on the right of the screen.
• Frequency: Select intervals like every 5, 10, or 15 minutes, or specify exact minutes, hours, or days.
• Email Alerts: You can choose to receive emails when a cron is run; however, alerts are only sent if the cron produces an output.

How do I use the File Permissions Checker?

This tool allows you to view and fix file permission issues that don't match recommended settings.

• Login to {{brand.cpurl}} and go to Manage Hosting -> Manage.
• Select the File Permissions Checker icon.
• Select Scan Permissions to begin.
• Differing permissions will be listed with recommended levels. Select Fix Selected or fix files individually.

Is ImageMagick supported?

ImageMagick (Version 6.7.2) is supported. The path to the binary is /usr/bin/convert, or /usr/bin if only the directory path is required. While the command line program is available to all customers, the PHP extension is not supported on this platform.

Can I enable GZIP Web Server Compression?

Gzip compression is enabled by default across all platforms and handled automatically by Edge Cache systems. Note that the temporary URL system does not utilize edge caching, so tests against it will show compression as disabled.

Manual Configuration: Add the following to your .htaccess file in the public_html directory:

AddOutputFilterByType DEFLATE text/html text/plain text/xml text/css text/javascript application/javascript

Can you update the version of cURL on your webservers?

Application warnings about cURL version 7.19.7 being outdated are common, but the servers remain secure. Our systems use Redhat Enterprise Operating Systems which utilize backporting—applying security fixes retrospectively to stable software versions.

Outbound IP Addresses

Shared websites outbound connections appear from: 185.151.28.62, 185.151.28.63, 45.8.227.175, 45.8.227.176. Scheduled tasks/Cron jobs appear from: 185.151.28.61 or 45.8.227.174. We recommend whitelisting the ranges 185.151.28.0/24 and 45.8.227.0/24.

How can I modify my hosts file?

The hosts file allows you to override DNS locally to test your site before changing global DNS. Use the format: XX.XX.XX.XX domain.tld www.domain.tld.

• Windows: Run Notepad as Administrator and open c:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\hosts.
• Mac OS: Use sudo nano /etc/hosts (or /private/etc/hosts for newer versions) in Terminal.
• Linux: Open /etc/hosts with your preferred editor (e.g., sudo vim).

Linux vs. Windows Hosting

Choose Windows for ASP, ASP.NET, or MS-SQL requirements. Choose Linux for PHP (WordPress, Joomla, etc.), Perl, Ruby, or Python. WordPress users are specifically recommended to use the WordPress hosting platform for speed-boosting features.

Temporary URLs

Temporary URLs allow you to view your site before pointing DNS to {{brand.brandName}}.

• They do not support SSL (must use http://).
• They are not a staging environment; they reflect live file changes.
• Performance is reduced as they are intended for trialing, not benchmarking.

Website Malware Scanner

The platform performs daily scans. If malware is found, PHP mail is automatically disabled to protect sender reputation.

• Access reports via the Malware Report icon in {{link.cpurl}}.
• Red markings indicate high risk; yellow warnings are for information-only.
• To clean: replace infected files with clean versions, update all plugins, and change passwords.
• Select Scan Again after cleaning to re-enable PHP mail.

General Settings

• PCI Compliance: Our hosting is fully PCI compliant and uses ISO 27001-approved data centers.
• Sellerdeck: Fully supported on the platform.
• Passwords: All passwords (FTP, email, database) are encrypted and invisible in the control panel, except for the primary FTP account password.

Viewing Nameservers

If you manage your domain name with {{brand.brandName}} and have access to it via {{brand.cpurl}} you can view the nameservers the domain is using by following the steps below.

• Log in to {{brand.cpurl}}
• Select Manage Domains and locate the domain you’d like to check, select Manage.
• Select the Nameservers icon to view what nameservers the domain is pointing to.
• You can edit and update them here.

Please note that nameserver changes usually take between 6-8 hours - but can take up to 24 hours.

WordPress CLI

If you're using WordPress, you may wish to make use of the WP Command Line Interface (CLI) to make changes to your installation. It's included by default with all WordPress installs on our platform.

WordPress SMTP Details

The best SMTP details to use when configuring an SMTP plugin within WordPress when you're using our WordPress hosting are:

• Outgoing mail server: smtp.yourdomain.com
• Outgoing server port (SMTP): 465
• Use the following type of encrypted connection: SSL

Using these details will allow emails to be sent via SMTP from WordPress forms or allow any other SMTP-based plugins to send.

How do I add and use WordPress contact forms?

There are a range of different WordPress form plugins out there such as WP Forms, Contact Form 7 and Pirate Forms. In this example, we'll demonstrate with the free to use Contact Form 7 plugin.

1. Install the Contact Form 7 Plugin

Log in to your WordPress Admin area and head to Plugins and select Add New. Search for Contact Form 7 and select Install Now and then Activate.

2. Add a New Contact Form

You’ll now see a new menu option called Contact down the left-hand WordPress sidebar. Select Contact to configure a new form. Select Add New to create a customized version.

3. Configuring Your Form

Form tags are used as placeholders for HTML form controls. You can add drop-downs, text fields, and checkboxes. You can assign a CSS ID or Class attribute for further styling.

4. Edit the Mail Settings

The From address must be an address that uses your own domain, e.g. example@yourDomain.com. You can configure what information from the form gets sent using tags like [your-name] and [your-email].

5. Adding the Form To Your Site

Add the form shortcode, such as [contact-form-7 id="11" title="New Contact Form"], to any page or post to display the form.

How do I reset my WordPress user password?

Update the password using WordPress Tools

If you would like to reset your WordPress User password, then you can use our WordPress Tools facility:

• Head to your list of packages -> [select package] -> Users.
• Find the user you'd like to reset the password for and select Manage -> Change Password.
• Enter the new password and select Change Password.

Updating the password using phpMyAdmin

If your site is not on the WordPress-specific platform, you can update user passwords directly in the database:

• Head to package list -> [package] -> phpMyAdmin.
• Select Log In for the WordPress database and expand the tables to find wp_users.
• Locate the user row, select Edit, and update the Value for user_pass using the MD5 function.

WordPress Multisite Support

Our platforms have full support for a WordPress Network (Multisite). Follow the standard WordPress codex instructions to enable this feature.

Additional Domains & Subdomains

We automatically map 'wildcard' aliases, allowing subdomains like sub.domain.com to work instantly. To activate SSL on subdomains, add them explicitly in the 'Subdomains' icon within your control panel, ensuring they point to the correct document root.

What is WordPress?

WordPress is a free and open source content management system (CMS) based on PHP and MySQL. It is known for its user-friendly interface and vast ecosystem of plugins.

Dedicated WordPress Hosting

Our managed WordPress hosting is a dedicated platform optimized for speed and reliability, featuring specialized caching tools and security measures designed specifically for the WordPress environment.

Changing WordPress URL from Temporary to Live

If you installed WordPress on a temporary URL (e.g., http://example-co-uk.staging.com), you can update it to your live domain easily:

• Head to hosting packages -> [select package] -> Users.
• Update the Site URL and Home fields to your live domain (e.g., http://example.co.uk).
• Select Save Settings.

Note: Ensure you change staging hyphens to periods in the URL string for the live domain to resolve correctly.

Migrating an HTML website into WordPress

Option A: Move it as-is (Static HTML)

Download your site files via FTP from your old host and upload them to the document root of your BrackenHost package. Point your DNS (A record) to the package once tested.

Option B: Convert to WordPress (Recommended)

Install a fresh copy of WordPress on your package. You can then rebuild your site using a theme/page builder or manually copy content from your old HTML files into new WordPress pages and posts.