Is it a good idea to use the existing auto-install that comes with hosting services?

Hi. I am signing up to host my first website which I've finished designing, and after research decided to use Zen Cart for my store area. Whilst looking for a webhost, I noticed one that already has Zen Cart that is included, it says it sets it up with one click (lol), I have just emailed them to ask them which version it is. Does this sound like a good idea? Or is it better to use the latest version of ZC and upload it to the server myself etc. I really have no idea what is best so thanks for any tips :huh: :smile:

Oh yes, the webhost I am thinking of using is called Crazy Domains (in Australia)

DO NOT use 'one click' setup!!
Upload YOUR files via ftp and always keep an up to date backup. Which version? 1.5 is safest, second chive should be 1.3.9h. Your choice is dependent on any addon modules that you wish to include into your store and if you are going to use a template? Are all the mods you plan to add and your template compatible with 1.5?

P.S
Hi and welcome to Zen Cart :hug:

http://www.zen-cart.com/content.php?147-how-do-i-install-zen-cart

Thanks for answering :) Well I don't know about addons or templates since this is the first store and first website I'm paying for to host (I usually use free webhosts). I was just looking for a host that meets the requirements for ZC and use ftp to put it on the server. I guess I will choose the template once I have done that?

So what problems does one encounter if using the 'one click' store that comes with the hosting? I had a feeling it would be better to just avoid that...but I am wondering why? What devilish problems does one encounter? :shocking:

Oh and I can't recommend doing this enough http://www.zen-cart.com/downloads.php?do=file&id=391
It will create an identical TEST version of your store on your personal computer, you can try out mods etc without breaking your live site.

That looks like a good idea. In fact maybe I can get started on that first since I am still looking at different hosting options in the meantime...super, thanks!

Just be aware that that tutorial is for an old version of Zen Cart, and probably an old version of WAMP. Be sure you use the latest versions of whatever software you choose. There are other server packages like XAMPP, EasyPHP, etc. (XAMPP is the only one I have used).

I see :smile: I'll take it slow anyway, the most scripts I've ever put on my website was a contact form and some paypal buttons. I only just got into making websites, it's fun and a way to get my business out there.

gjh42:

Just be aware that that tutorial is for an old version of Zen Cart, and probably an old version of WAMP. Be sure you use the latest versions of whatever software you choose. There are other server packages like XAMPP, EasyPHP, etc. (XAMPP is the only one I have used).

Yes sorry it is an old version of ZC and WAMP, but as gjh42 states just use the latest versions of both and follow the install instructions as these still apply. Don't forget to decide on which version of ZC suits your needs, 1.5 if I were you assuming any changes you desire work with it. Have a good read through this thread
http://www.zen-cart.com/showthread.php?183643-Confirmed-working-mods-in-Zen-Cart-1-5

Oh and with tools such as WAMP XAMPP you can 'host' multiple sites on your p.c not just ZC. You can keep a working local copy of each version of your own site as it develops, simply create a new database (copy and rename it) each time to evolve your local site and set the configure files to point to the 'new' DB, copy and then rename the copy of the folder that houses all your store files within WAMP and voila you have 2 versions of your store, a work in progress and a benchmark original version. Sounds confusing but easy once you have done it once.

In general, the problem with "one click" installations is they are usually not the latest version. I found that out when I first started with Zen Cart. The hosting service I used at the time started offering it when I was looking for a cart program for a friend's site. I installed it, played with it a little, discovered this forum, realized I'd installed an old version, downloaded the latest version and installed it. Installing it yourself isn't that difficult if you're patient and follow the instructions. Most of us want to just dive in which usually only makes it more difficult on us. :laugh:

afo:

In general, the problem with "one click" installations is they are usually not the latest version. I found that out when I first started with Zen Cart. The hosting service I used at the time started offering it when I was looking for a cart program for a friend's site. I installed it, played with it a little, discovered this forum, realized I'd installed an old version, downloaded the latest version and installed it. Installing it yourself isn't that difficult if you're patient and follow the instructions. Most of us want to just dive in which usually only makes it more difficult on us. :laugh:

True, it's tempting to dive in but I think I would prefer the latest version...I might try to see if I can get it up on my test website on free hosting, if they allow it :D

Meanwhile they won't let me register my domain without giving them my business number, even though I ticked 'personal' website, not business. It won't actually be a business unless it works. I can't believe they rejected my domain pending my business details but took the money! Crap. I also tried to register it as a not for profit organisation and they rejected that too. What is up with that? I mean...aren't I allowed to register a personal domain? hmm

picandnix:

Oh and with tools such as WAMP XAMPP you can 'host' multiple sites on your p.c not just ZC. You can keep a working local copy of each version of your own site as it develops, simply create a new database (copy and rename it) each time to evolve your local site and set the configure files to point to the 'new' DB, copy and then rename the copy of the folder that houses all your store files within WAMP and voila you have 2 versions of your store, a work in progress and a benchmark original version. Sounds confusing but easy once you have done it once.

Interesting :smile: