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Web Hosting - Getting Started (Internal)

Overview​

This guide covers the internal procedures for setting up and managing client web hosting accounts on our DirectAdmin infrastructure.

What is DirectAdmin?​

DirectAdmin is our web hosting control panel. It's lightweight, powerful, and provides clients with an intuitive interface for managing their hosting.

Key Features Clients Have Access To​

  • File Manager - Upload and manage website files
  • Email Management - Create email accounts for their domain
  • Domain Management - Manage domains and subdomains
  • Database Management - MySQL/MariaDB database creation
  • Backup & Restore - Automated daily backups

Client Onboarding Procedure​

1. After Order Approval​

  1. Create DirectAdmin account in the reseller panel
  2. Set up package limits according to their plan (storage, bandwidth, databases)
  3. Configure domain - Add their primary domain
  4. Generate secure password using password manager
  5. Send welcome email with login credentials

2. Welcome Email Template​

Include:

  • DirectAdmin URL: https://da.alfieweb.com:2222
  • Username
  • Temporary password (advise to change)
  • Alternative domain access: https://theirdomain.com:2222
  • Link to documentation: How to Login
  • Support ticket link

3. DNS Setup​

If client owns domain elsewhere:

  • Provide nameservers: ns1.alfieweb.com and ns2.alfieweb.com
  • Advise 24-48hr propagation time

If we're managing domain:

  • Configure DNS records in our domain panel
  • Point A record to server IP

Common Client Questions​

Q: "I can't access DirectAdmin"

  • Check if using correct port (:2222)
  • Verify domain propagation status
  • Check if IP is blocked (failed login attempts)

Q: "How do I upload my website?"

  • Guide them to File Manager in DirectAdmin
  • Files go in /public_html/ directory
  • Can also use FTP (provide FTP credentials)

Q: "My website shows DirectAdmin default page"

  • They haven't uploaded files yet, OR
  • Files not in /public_html/, OR
  • Domain not fully propagated

Troubleshooting​

Account Locked​

  • Unblock IP in DirectAdmin admin panel
  • Navigate to: IP Manager → Brute Force Monitor

Email Not Working​

  • Verify MX records are correct
  • Check SPF/DKIM/DMARC records
  • Confirm email account created in DirectAdmin

Database Connection Errors​

  • Verify database user has correct permissions
  • Check remote MySQL is enabled if needed
  • Confirm correct hostname (usually localhost)

Important Notes for Team​

  • Always use strong passwords from password manager
  • Document any custom configurations in client notes
  • Keep track of package resource usage
  • Monitor for abuse/excessive resource usage
  • Daily backups are automatic but verify they're running