Creating cPanel accounts in WHM (Web Host Manager) is a core task for web hosting providers, resellers, and server administrators. This process allows you to allocate resources, set up domains, and provide clients with their own control panel for website management. Here’s a comprehensive, step-by-step guide based on industry best practices and leading competitor documentation.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have:

• Administrative or reseller access to WHM.

• A registered domain name for the new account.

• Knowledge of available hosting packages or the ability to create one (to define resource limits like disk space and bandwidth).

Step-by-Step Process

1. Log in to WHM

• Access WHM via https://yourdomain.com:2087 or https://serverip:2087.

• Enter your WHM username and password.

2. Navigate to “Create a New Account”

• Use the search bar or go to:
  Account Functions > Create a New Account.

3. Enter Domain Information

• Input the primary domain name for the account.

• WHM will auto-generate a username (you can edit this).

• Set a strong password (use the password generator for security).

• Provide the account owner’s contact email address.

4. Select a Hosting Package

• Choose a pre-defined package from the dropdown menu.

• If you don’t have a package, create one via Packages > Add a Package.

• Packages define resource limits (disk space, bandwidth, etc.).

5. Configure Optional Settings

• Adjust DNS and mail routing settings as needed (default settings are usually sufficient).

• Choose between local or remote mail exchanger depending on your email setup.

6. Select cPanel Theme and Locale

• Pick a cPanel theme (default is often “paper_lantern”).

• Select the preferred language for the cPanel interface.

7. Enable/Disable Features

• Decide on features like CGI Access, Shell Access, Web Disk, and digest authentication.

8. Create the Account

• Review all settings.

• Click the “Create” button at the bottom of the.

9. Confirmation

• WHM will display a success message and a summary of the new account’s settings.

Post-Creation Checklist

• Verify Account Settings: Log in to the new cPanel account to confirm domain, username, and email accuracy.

• Set Up Email/FTP Accounts: Configure as needed, including security features like SPF and DKIM.

• Monitor Resource Usage: Track disk space, bandwidth, and CPU to ensure the account stays within limits.

• Adjust Package if Needed: Modify the hosting package if the account requires different resources.

• Set Up Alerts: Configure notifications for resource usage and performance issues.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Best Practices for Managing cPanel Accounts

• Monitor Resource Usage: Use WHM tools to track disk, bandwidth, and CPU.

• Automate Backups: Schedule regular backups for all accounts.

• Enforce Strong Passwords: Require complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

• Firewall & Security: Use firewalls and brute force protection (e.g., cPHulk).

• SSL Management: Enable AutoSSL for all accounts.

• User Access Control: Limit admin access and regularly audit user permissions.

• Email & DNS Security: Use SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and DNSSEC for enhanced security.

Summary Table: Key Steps

By following these steps, you can efficiently create and manage cPanel accounts in WHM, ensuring a secure and seamless experience for your clients