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# Introduction

Welcome to the documentation for PanelAlpha Engine (opens new window), a revolutionary Docker-based hosting solution designed to provide isolated, scalable WordPress hosting environments. Whether you're setting up your first server or managing advanced configurations, this comprehensive guide will help you maximize the potential of PanelAlpha Engine.

PanelAlpha Engine has been designed to handle "webhosting service" as a separate Docker container on a server. This way each customer's data is separated and can scale up depending on the needs. The solution also works well for individual customers who are having too large instances to have them on a shared hosting server.

# Key Features

  • Docker-Based Architecture: Each hosting account runs in an isolated Docker container for maximum security and resource control
  • Multiple Web Server Options: Choose between OpenLiteSpeed, LiteSpeed, Apache, Nginx, or Nginx+Apache configurations
  • Advanced Firewall (CSF): Built-in ConfigServer Security & Firewall for comprehensive server protection
  • Web Application Firewall: Integrated ModSecurity WAF for advanced threat protection
  • IP Management: Flexible IP allocation and management for hosting accounts
  • Automated Backups: Scheduled backups with remote storage support for data protection
  • Performance Monitoring: Real-time resource usage tracking and performance graphs
  • Outgoing Mail Control: Built-in SMTP relay and mail tracking system
  • SSL/TLS Support: Automated SSL certificate management for secure connections
  • Resource Isolation: Complete separation between customer environments
  • Scalability: Easy horizontal and vertical scaling based on demand
  • Background Updates: Zero-downtime updates with automated rollback capabilities
  • Web Server Switching: Change web servers without losing data or configurations
  • WP-CLI Integration: Command-line interface for WordPress management
  • Notification System: Customizable alerts for server events and issues

# Architecture

Presented below is an illustrative diagram showcasing the architecture of PanelAlpha engine. Explore how the engine is structured and the relationships established between containers.

# System Requirements

To successfully install PanelAlpha Engine, your server must meet all of the requirements listed below:

  • RAM: 4GB minimum
  • Operating System:
    • Debian 12 "bookworm" or
    • Ubuntu 22.04.4 LTS (Jammy Jellyfish)
  • SSH Connection with root access
  • Open ports:
    • Ports 80, 443 for website access
    • Port 2011 needs to be accessible from PanelAlpha
    • Port 21 and ports 30000-30009 for FTP access

Important!
The PanelAlpha Engine must be installed on a separate server, meeting the above requirements. Installing both PanelAlpha and PanelAlpha Engine on the same server will cause the installations to be non-functional.

# General Questions

# What is PanelAlpha Engine?

PanelAlpha Engine is a Docker-based hosting server solution that provides isolated WordPress hosting environments. Each hosting account runs in a separate container, ensuring complete data separation and enhanced security.

# How does PanelAlpha Engine differ from traditional hosting panels?

Unlike traditional hosting panels (cPanel, Plesk, DirectAdmin), PanelAlpha Engine uses containerization technology (Docker) to isolate each hosting account. This provides better resource control, security, and scalability compared to traditional shared hosting approaches.

# Can I use PanelAlpha Engine without PanelAlpha?

No, PanelAlpha Engine is designed to work in conjunction with PanelAlpha. The main PanelAlpha application manages and controls the Engine servers, handling instance creation, monitoring, and administration.

# What web servers does PanelAlpha Engine support?

PanelAlpha Engine supports multiple web server options:

  • OpenLiteSpeed - Free, high-performance web server
  • LiteSpeed - Commercial enterprise web server with advanced features
  • Apache - Traditional, widely compatible web server
  • Nginx - High-performance web server for static content
  • Nginx + Apache - Combined setup for optimal performance and compatibility

# Can I change the web server after installation?

Yes, PanelAlpha Engine allows you to switch between different web servers without losing data or configurations. The migration process is automated and typically takes 10-30 minutes with minimal downtime.

# How does container isolation work?

Each hosting account runs in its own Docker container with dedicated resources and isolated file systems. This means that issues in one account cannot affect others, and resources can be precisely allocated and controlled.

# Technical Questions

# What are the minimum system requirements?

  • RAM: 4GB minimum (8GB recommended for production)
  • Operating System: Debian 12 or Ubuntu 22.04.4 LTS
  • Ports: 80, 443 (web), 2011 (PanelAlpha communication), 21, 30000-30009 (FTP)
  • SSH: Root access required for installation

# Can I run PanelAlpha Engine on the same server as PanelAlpha?

No, PanelAlpha Engine must be installed on a separate server. Running both on the same server will cause conflicts and make the installations non-functional.

# Does PanelAlpha Engine support email hosting?

Yes, PanelAlpha Engine includes outgoing mail capabilities with SMTP relay support. However, for full email hosting with IMAP/POP3, you should integrate with a dedicated email server like Mailcow or cPanel.

# Can I update PanelAlpha Engine without downtime?

Yes, PanelAlpha Engine supports background updates that allow you to keep the system up-to-date without interrupting existing hosting services. Updates typically complete in 5-15 minutes.

# What backup options are available?

PanelAlpha Engine supports automated backups with:

  • Scheduled backup creation
  • Remote backup storage (FTP, SFTP, S3-compatible)
  • Backup rotation and retention policies
  • Quick restore capabilities

# Support

This documentation provides comprehensive guidance from initial setup to advanced server management. For technical issues, sales questions, or additional assistance, visit our Support Center (opens new window), explore our Community Forum (opens new window), or join our Discord server (opens new window) for real-time support.