Web Platform Installer
This chapter assumes you haven't already installed SQL Server or purchased a SQL Workgroup/Standard License from us. If, however, SQL is already installed on the server you may still want to read this chapter if you're interested in installing PHP or any other items available in Microsoft's Web Platform Installer.Ingredients
- 1 Microsoft Web Platform Installer
- 1 SQL Server 2008 (can substitute with Express)
- PHP 5 for added flavor (optional)
- 2 tbs of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1. If you don’t already have the Microsoft Web Platform Installer (WPI) installed on the server, visit http://www.microsoft.com/web/downloads/platform.aspx, and click the “Download” link. (As Microsoft regularly updates this page, the screen shot below may look differently than the page you visit).
* Note that due to default security settings on the server, Internet Explorer may restrict you from either visiting certain websites or downloading from them. If you are not able to download from the WPI page, open up the Server Manager from the Start Menu, then click the link for “Configure IE ESC.” When the configuration box appears, you will then have the option to turn off the IE security configuration. You may want to turn the security configuration back on after you have finished downloading all of the items you need from the web, including the SmarterBundle software.
* Note that due to default security settings on the server, Internet Explorer may restrict you from either visiting certain websites or downloading from them. If you are not able to download from the WPI page, open up the Server Manager from the Start Menu, then click the link for “Configure IE ESC.” When the configuration box appears, you will then have the option to turn off the IE security configuration. You may want to turn the security configuration back on after you have finished downloading all of the items you need from the web, including the SmarterBundle software.
2. Next, you’ll be prompted to run or save the file. Choose “Run.”
3. You may encounter a security warning confirming that you do, in fact, wish to run the software. Click “Run.”
4. After a few seconds, the Web Platform Installer will open and appear on your server’s desk top. Click on the “Web Platform” tab on the upper left side of the window.
5. Under the Database section, click “Customize.”
6. Select the SQL Server Express 2008 options, then click the “Install” below.
7. You’ll then need to review the items you’ve selected for installation, then click “I Accept.”
8. Because you are installing SQL, the Web Platform Installer will prompt you to select an authentication mode. Choose “Mixed Mode,” then provide a strong password that includes at least a number and special character.
9. A status bar will appear while SQL is installed on the server. This process may take some time.
10. You may also be prompted to restart the server one or more times when installing items from the Web Platform Installer.
11. Once completed, you’ll be greeted with the following screen. Click “Finish” to return to the Web Platform Installer.
12. To install the latest .NET Framework from Microsoft, or PHP, click the “Customize” link for the Frameworks and Runtimes section of the Web Platform Installer.
13. Select the items you wish to install, then click the “Install” button below.
14. WebsitePanel also tightly integrates with Microsoft’s Web App Gallery module. The Web App Gallery will allow you, or your hosting customers, to easily install a number of popular web applications.
In order for WebsitePanel to work with the Web App Gallery, you will need to install “Web Deployment Tool”, which can be found under the “What's New” tab of the WPI.
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