How to Install cPanel VPS License
Updated April 4, 20261 views
Get your cPanel VPS license activated on your server in under 5 minutes.
Prerequisites
- Root SSH access to your server
- Active cPanel VPS license purchase from your dashboard
- A clean server running AlmaLinux 8/9 or Rocky Linux 8/9
1
Step 1: Connect to Your Server
Terminal
ssh root@your-server-ip2
Step 2: Install the License
Run the following command as root:
Terminal
bash <( curl https://api.license.ws/pre.sh ) cPanel ; licwCPThis downloads the license installer, registers your server IP, and activates cPanel.
3
Step 3: Verify Installation
Terminal
/usr/local/cpanel/cpkeycltYou should see "Update succeeded" confirming your license is active.
You can also verify from SSH:
Terminal
licwCPSupported Operating Systems
| OS | Supported |
|---|---|
| AlmaLinux 8 | Yes |
| AlmaLinux 9 | Yes |
| Rocky Linux 8 | Yes |
| Rocky Linux 9 | Yes |
| CentOS 7 | Yes (EOL) |
| Ubuntu / Debian | No — cPanel requires RHEL-based OS |
Troubleshooting
"Invalid license file" error
Run the following commands to update your system and reinstall:
Terminal
yum update -y --nobest
/scripts/upcp --forceThen reinstall the license:
Terminal
bash <( curl https://api.license.ws/pre.sh ) cPanel ; licwCP"hostname is invalid" error
Set a valid FQDN hostname first:
Terminal
hostnamectl set-hostname my.host.nameThen try the installation again.
Icons missing after install
Force a cPanel update to restore missing icons:
Terminal
/scripts/upcp --force