Setting up WordPress on Cloudways is surprisingly straightforward. I've launched dozens of servers for clients, and once you know the steps, you can have a fully functional WordPress site running in under 10 minutes.

This guide walks you through every step→from creating your Cloudways account to launching your first WordPress site with SSL and domain mapping.

What You'll Need

Step 1: Create Your Cloudways Account

1Sign up at Cloudways.com

Use the free trial → no credit card required for the first 3 days. Enter your email, name, and choose a password.

Step 2: Launch a Server

2Choose your cloud provider

I recommend DigitalOcean for most users → best balance of performance and price. Select:

  • Server Size: 1GB RAM / 25GB storage (good for 1-3 sites)
  • Location: Choose the data center closest to your target audience
  • Server Name: Give it a recognizable name

Click "Launch Now" → server setup takes 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Deploy WordPress

3Create your WordPress application

Once your server is ready:

  1. Click on your server name
  2. Go to "Applications" tab
  3. Click "Add Application"
  4. Select "WordPress" (or "WooCommerce" if building a store)
  5. Choose your WordPress version and enter a name
  6. Click "Add Application"

Your WordPress site will be ready in 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Access Your WordPress Admin

4Get your login credentials

In the Application Management screen:

  • Click "Access Details"
  • Find your admin URL, username, and password
  • Click "Launch WordPress" to log in

Pro tip: Change your password immediately after first login!

Step 5: Map Your Domain

5Point your domain to Cloudways

In Cloudways Application Management:

  1. Go to "Domain Management"
  2. Enter your domain name (e.g., yoursite.com)
  3. Copy the provided IP address
  4. In your domain registrar (Namecheap, GoDaddy, etc.), update your A record to this IP

DNS propagation takes 1-48 hours, but usually happens within a few hours.

Step 6: Install SSL Certificate

6Enable free SSL

Cloudways provides free Let's Encrypt SSL:

  1. Go to "SSL Certificate" in Application Management
  2. Select "Let's Encrypt"
  3. Enter your email and domain
  4. Click "Install Certificate"

Your site is now secure with HTTPS!

Ready to Launch Your Site?

Start with Cloudways free trial - no credit card needed.

Try Cloudways Free

Use code BIG3D for 30% off 3 months

Disclosure: I may earn a commission if you purchase through my link at no extra cost to you.

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