How To Install FastPanel on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS
FastPanel has emerged as a popular free server control panel solution for web hosting environments. With its intuitive interface and comprehensive toolset, FastPanel simplifies server management tasks that would otherwise require extensive command-line knowledge. This comprehensive guide walks you through the complete installation and configuration process of FastPanel on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, the latest long-term support release from Canonical.
What is FastPanel?
FastPanel is a powerful, user-friendly server control panel designed to simplify web server management. Unlike other control panels that require costly licenses, FastPanel offers a free licensing model while delivering robust functionality. The panel allows system administrators and web hosting providers to effortlessly manage websites, email accounts, databases, and server settings through an intuitive graphical interface.
FastPanel stands out from alternatives like cPanel and DirectAdmin through its lightweight resource footprint and modern interface design. The panel excels at providing comprehensive server management capabilities without overwhelming users with complex technical options. Key functionalities include:
- Website creation and management
- Email account configuration and management
- Database administration tools
- Dynamic system notifications
- Backup creation and management
- SSL certificate implementation
- User access management with permission controls
- Two-factor authentication for enhanced security
- Web SSH client for remote server access
- Performance monitoring and statistics
The panel’s free licensing model makes it particularly attractive for small businesses and developers seeking cost-effective server management solutions.
System Requirements for FastPanel
Before installing FastPanel on your Ubuntu 24.04 LTS server, ensure your system meets the following minimum requirements:
- Processor: Minimum 1 CPU core (1 GHz or higher)
- Memory: Minimum 1GB RAM (2GB or more recommended for optimal performance)
- Storage: Minimum 5GB free disk space (20GB or more recommended)
- Operating System: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (64-bit architecture only)
- Network: Stable internet connection with static IP address
While FastPanel supports various Linux distributions including Debian (9-12), CentOS 7, AlmaLinux 8, and Rocky Linux 8, this guide focuses specifically on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS installation procedures.
It’s important to note that FastPanel requires a clean operating system installation without any preinstalled software. Installing the panel on a server with preconfigured web server components can cause conflicts and functionality issues. For optimal results, start with a fresh Ubuntu 24.04 LTS installation.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Proper preparation ensures a smooth installation process. Follow these steps to prepare your Ubuntu 24.04 LTS server for FastPanel installation:
Setting Up a Fresh Server
If you’re starting with a new VPS or dedicated server, ensure it has Ubuntu 24.04 LTS installed. Most cloud providers offer this as an option during server creation. For existing servers that don’t meet the “clean installation” requirement, consider reinstalling the operating system or provisioning a new server.
Updating System Packages
Before installing FastPanel, update your system’s package repositories and upgrade existing packages to their latest versions:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -yThis ensures all system components are up to date and reduces the likelihood of compatibility issues during installation.
Verifying System Requirements
Confirm your server meets the minimum hardware requirements:
# Check CPU information
lscpu
# Check available memory
free -h
# Check available disk space
df -hSetting Correct Hostname
Ensure your server has a properly configured hostname:
# Check current hostname
hostname
# Set a new hostname if needed
sudo hostnamectl set-hostname your-server-hostnameDisabling Conflicting Software
If you have any web server software or control panels already installed, they should be removed to prevent conflicts with FastPanel:
# Remove Apache if installed
sudo apt purge apache2* -y
# Remove Nginx if installed
sudo apt purge nginx* -y
# Remove other control panels if present
# Commands will vary depending on what's installedAcquiring a FastPanel License
FastPanel requires a license for operation, but fortunately, it offers a free licensing option. Follow these steps to acquire your FastPanel license:
- Visit the official FastPanel website.
- Click on the “Get For Free” or similar registration button
- Create an account by providing your email address
- Verify your email address by clicking the activation link sent to your inbox
- Log in to your new account
- Navigate to the license section and select “License FastPanel”
- Add the license to your cart
- During checkout, you’ll need to provide your server’s IP address
- Complete the order process (even though it’s free)
- Your license will be associated with your server IP address
The license acquisition process is straightforward and doesn’t require payment information for the free version. You’ll need this license during the post-installation configuration of FastPanel.
Server Configuration Before Installation
Proper server configuration enhances security and ensures optimal FastPanel performance. Complete these configuration steps before proceeding with installation:
Network Configuration
Verify your server has a properly configured network interface with a static IP address:
# Check network configuration
ip addr show
# Verify internet connectivity
ping -c 4 google.comFirewall Configuration
Configure your firewall to allow traffic on port 8888, which is used by FastPanel’s web interface:
# Install UFW if not already present
sudo apt install ufw -y
# Allow SSH to prevent lockout
sudo ufw allow 22/tcp
# Allow FastPanel web interface
sudo ufw allow 8888/tcp
# Enable the firewall
sudo ufw enableIf using a cloud provider, ensure their network firewall also allows traffic on port 8888.
SELinux Configuration
FastPanel requires SELinux to be disabled. Ubuntu doesn’t have SELinux enabled by default, but if you’ve installed it manually, disable it:
# Check if SELinux is installed
sestatus
# If installed, edit the configuration file
sudo nano /etc/selinux/config
# Change SELINUX=enforcing to SELINUX=disabled
# Save and exit
# Reboot the server
sudo rebootSynchronizing System Time
Ensure your server has the correct time set:
# Install NTP
sudo apt install ntp -y
# Enable and start the NTP service
sudo systemctl enable ntp
sudo systemctl start ntp
# Verify time synchronization
dateInstalling Dependencies
FastPanel requires certain dependencies to function properly. Install these prerequisites before running the FastPanel installation script:
Installing wget
The wget utility is needed to download the FastPanel installation script:
# Update package lists
sudo apt update
# Install wget
sudo apt install wget -yVerifying wget Installation
Ensure wget is properly installed:
# Check wget version
wget --versionIf the command returns version information, wget is successfully installed. If not, retry the installation.
Installing Additional Prerequisites
Depending on your specific environment, you may need additional packages:
# Install common dependencies
sudo apt install curl software-properties-common apt-transport-https ca-certificates gnupg -yFastPanel Installation Process
With all prerequisites in place, you’re ready to install FastPanel. The installation process is straightforward and automated through a script:
Downloading the Installation Script
Download the FastPanel installation script using wget:
wget https://repo.fastpanel.direct/install_fastpanel.shRunning the Installation Script
Execute the installation script:
# Standard installation
sudo bash install_fastpanel.sh
# Alternatively, download and run in one command
wget https://repo.fastpanel.direct/install_fastpanel.sh -O - | bash -Customizing MySQL Version (Optional)
If you need to specify a particular MySQL or MariaDB version:
# Check available database versions
wget https://repo.fastpanel.direct/install_fastpanel.sh && bash install_fastpanel.sh --help | grep 'Available versions'
# Install with specific MySQL version (e.g., MySQL 8.0)
bash install_fastpanel.sh -m mysql8.0Monitoring Installation Progress
The installation process may take several minutes, depending on your server’s performance. The script will display progress information as it completes various stages of the installation.
Once the installation completes successfully, you’ll receive a confirmation message with login credentials similar to:
Congratulations! FASTPANEL successfully installed and available for you at https://your.server.ip:8888
Login: fastuser
Password: your-generated-passwordMake note of these credentials as you’ll need them to access the FastPanel interface.
Post-Installation Configuration
After successful installation, proceed with these post-installation configuration steps:
Accessing the FastPanel Web Interface
Open a web browser and navigate to the URL provided in the installation success message:
https://your.server.ip:8888Note that FastPanel uses HTTPS with a self-signed certificate, so you may encounter security warnings in your browser. These warnings are expected and can be safely bypassed for your server.
Initial Login and License Activation
- Enter the username and password provided during installation
- You’ll be prompted to enter an email address for license activation
- Enter the email address associated with your FastPanel license
- Click “Request license”
- Check your email for a verification message
- Click the verification link in the email
- Return to the FastPanel interface and click “Check status”
- Complete the login process with your username and password
- You may be asked to enter an email for password recovery (recommended)
- Accept the license agreement by clicking “Accept” twice
Changing Default Credentials
For security reasons, change the default password immediately:
- Navigate to the “Manage” section in the left sidebar
- Select “Users”
- Click on the “fastuser” account
- Click the three dots icon and select “Edit user”
- Enter the current password and set a new strong password
- Click “Save”
Security Configuration
Implement these security best practices to protect your FastPanel installation:
Implementing Two-Factor Authentication
Enhance login security by enabling two-factor authentication:
- Navigate to the user profile settings
- Locate the two-factor authentication option
- Follow the prompts to configure an authenticator app
- Scan the QR code with your mobile device
- Enter the verification code to complete setup
Additional Firewall Rules
Configure additional firewall rules to protect your server:
# Allow HTTP and HTTPS for websites
sudo ufw allow 80/tcp
sudo ufw allow 443/tcp
# Allow email ports if needed
sudo ufw allow 25/tcp
sudo ufw allow 465/tcp
sudo ufw allow 587/tcp
sudo ufw allow 110/tcp
sudo ufw allow 995/tcp
sudo ufw allow 143/tcp
sudo ufw allow 993/tcp
# Block unnecessary services
sudo ufw deny 3306/tcpRegular Security Updates
Schedule regular security updates for your server:
# Set up automatic security updates
sudo apt install unattended-upgrades -y
sudo dpkg-reconfigure -plow unattended-upgradesSecurity Audit
Perform a basic security audit to identify potential vulnerabilities:
# Install security audit tools
sudo apt install lynis -y
# Run a security audit
sudo lynis audit systemBasic FastPanel Usage
FastPanel offers an intuitive interface for managing various aspects of your web server. Here’s an overview of basic functionality:
Dashboard Overview
The FastPanel dashboard provides an at-a-glance view of server status, resource usage, and important notifications. Key metrics include:
- CPU and memory usage
- Disk space utilization
- Running services status
- Recent system events
- Security alerts
User Management
FastPanel allows you to create and manage user accounts with different permission levels:
- Navigate to the “Manage” section
- Select “Users”
- Click “Add user” to create new accounts
- Configure permissions based on roles
- Assign websites and resources to specific users
Website Creation and Management
Creating websites in FastPanel is straightforward:
- Click the “Add website” button on the dashboard
- Enter the domain name
- Select the desired PHP version
- Choose whether to enable SSL
- Configure additional settings as needed
- Click “Create” to provision the website
Once created, you can manage various aspects of the website including file management, SSL certificates, and performance settings.
Database Management
FastPanel simplifies database administration:
- Navigate to the “Databases” section
- Click “Add database” to create a new database
- Set a database name and credentials
- Choose the database type (MySQL or MariaDB)
- Configure access permissions
- Manage the database using phpMyAdmin
Email Account Management
Set up and manage email accounts through FastPanel:
- Navigate to the “Mail” section
- Select the domain for email hosting
- Click “Add mailbox” to create new email accounts
- Configure spam protection and filters
- Set quota limits for mailboxes
- Manage email forwarding and auto-responders
Advanced FastPanel Features
Beyond basic functionality, FastPanel offers advanced features for comprehensive server management:
Backup Configuration
Set up automated backups to protect your data:
- Navigate to the “Backups” section
- Configure backup frequency and retention policy
- Select what to include in backups (websites, databases, emails)
- Choose backup storage location (local or remote)
- Configure notification settings for backup status
SSL Certificate Implementation
FastPanel makes SSL certificate management simple:
- Navigate to website settings
- Select “SSL/TLS” tab
- Choose between Let’s Encrypt free certificates or custom certificates
- For Let’s Encrypt, click “Issue certificate” and follow prompts
- For custom certificates, upload your certificate files
- Configure SSL settings such as protocols and ciphers
Cron Job Management
Schedule automated tasks using cron jobs:
- Navigate to the “Scheduled tasks” section
- Click “Add task” to create a new cron job
- Enter the command to execute
- Set the execution schedule
- Configure notification settings for task completion
Server Monitoring and Statistics
Monitor server performance and website traffic:
- Access the “Monitoring” section
- View server resource usage over time
- Analyze website traffic statistics
- Monitor service status and response times
- Set up alerts for performance thresholds
PHP Version Management
Manage PHP versions for different websites:
- Navigate to website settings
- Select “PHP” tab
- Choose the desired PHP version
- Configure PHP settings and extensions
- Set resource limits for PHP processes
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
Even with careful preparation, you might encounter issues during or after FastPanel installation. Here are solutions to common problems:
Connection Errors
If you can’t connect to the FastPanel interface:
- Verify the server is running:
sudo systemctl status fastpanel2 - Check firewall settings:
sudo ufw status - Ensure port 8888 is open:
sudo lsof -i:8888 - Verify network connectivity:
curl -Ik https://localhost:8888
Login Problems
If you’re having trouble logging in:
- Verify credentials are correct (case-sensitive)
- Reset password via SSH if needed:
passwd fastuser - Check if the FastPanel service is running:
sudo systemctl status fastpanel2 - Examine FastPanel logs:
sudo tail -f /var/log/fastpanel/error.log
License Activation Issues
If license activation fails:
- Verify your email address is correct
- Check that your server’s IP address matches the licensed IP
- Ensure your server can reach the FastPanel licensing servers
- Contact FastPanel support if issues persist
Missing Package Errors
If you encounter missing package errors:
# For Debian/Ubuntu:
dpkg -l | grep fastpanel2
apt install fastpanel2
# For CentOS/Alma/Rocky:
rpm -qa | grep fastpanel2
yum install fastpanel2404 Errors After Installation
If you encounter 404 errors when accessing the panel, the fastpanel2 package might have been removed:
- Check if the package is installed:
dpkg -l | grep fastpanel2 - Reinstall if missing:
apt install fastpanel2
Maintaining Your FastPanel Installation
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and security of your FastPanel installation:
Regular Updates
Keep FastPanel and system components updated:
# Update system packages
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y
# Update FastPanel
sudo apt update
sudo apt install fastpanel2Backup Best Practices
Implement a robust backup strategy:
- Configure regular automated backups
- Store backups in multiple locations (local and remote)
- Test backup restoration periodically
- Monitor backup job completion status
- Implement backup rotation to manage storage efficiently
Performance Monitoring
Regularly monitor server performance:
- Use FastPanel’s built-in monitoring tools
- Install additional monitoring tools if needed:
sudo apt install htop iotop - Monitor system logs:
sudo tail -f /var/log/syslog - Check for resource-intensive processes:
toporhtop - Monitor disk space usage:
df -h
Security Audits
Perform regular security audits:
- Scan for vulnerabilities:
sudo lynis audit system - Check for suspicious processes:
ps aux | grep -i suspicious - Monitor login attempts:
sudo lastb - Update security packages:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade - Review FastPanel logs for security events
Congratulations! You have successfully installed FastPanel. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the FastPanel web-hosting control panel on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official FastPanel website.
