How Do I Edit Apache with WHM/Cpanel?

[The Expert]

Yesterday I tried to fire up the Super Cache plugin for Wordpress MU. So far, it's been the most complicated plugin that I've ever come across.

In the documentation it said that if after I follow the basic installation instructions and add the specified code to my .htaccess file, I find myself faced with a 500 (or 501?) error, that:

1. Apache must be configured to allow the modules above. If you receive a "500 internal error" when serving requests to anonymous users you need to dig into your Apache configuration. This configuration in my virtual host works for me:
   <Directory /home/www/>
   AllowOverride All
   </Directory>

Nice. That sounds all well and good, but figuring out HOW to make any type of edits to Apache is a nightmare.

All the online tutorials are written by uber-geeks and they all seem to jump in with instructions that assume you've already fired up whatever editing system is necessicary...or that you know how to find your Apache Config file.

Anyway...I'm on a Linux Hostgator reseller plan with WHM and Cpanel running. Anyone know how to make the apache edit outlined above?

[Adam Carn]

You can't edit Apache yourself, your host has to do it. Contact your host. I learnt this a few days ago too.

Thanks,
Adam

[jacktackett]

As Adam indicated this sounds like an edit required in the main config file for apache. Since you're on a shared server you'd need to convince hostgator there are no issues in making these changes. Your best bet is to open a support ticket and see if they'll make these changes or if they can make the changes just for your account (highly unlikely).

Next is to sign up for a managed dedicated server or VPS and get the changes done there. You'll need to either get up to speed on system administration duties - or out source those activities. I can help vett anyone you choose to help you select a good person - right now I'm not aware of anyone I know that has the time to take on any more clients or would recommend folks myself.

Good luck,
--Jack

[zapseo]

There are ways, in some cpanels, to make "local" edits to Apache.
Otherwise, Adam is correct -- for shared hosting accounts, you *generally* can't edit your Apache configuration. That, in part, is what .htaccess is for. (Please note that I said "in part".)

Live JoyFully!

Judy

[shaddai]

.htaccess isn't going to help with loading a necessary module. That has to be done with apache2.conf or httpd.conf depending on which Apache version is being used.

Jacktackett is right about the next step being a hosting situation where you have control over the server config, and that means at least a VPS solution on your own.

If you don't want to suffer the VPS learning curve, and would rather have someone else do that stuff, I'm running a VPS for a few clients already. It's a lighttpd server that's optimized for WP & is typically more secure than an Apache server anyway. I'm sure we could work something out...just let me know if I can help.

Todd