Changes To Keep in Mind When cPanel Migrating from Apache 2.2 to Apache 2.4 Print

Learn how to migrate your application running on an old Apache 2.2 server to a newer Apache 2.4+ server. Understand the differences in access control and configuration syntax, and gain step-by-step guidance on updating .htaccess files, managing server configurations, and blocking IPs effectively. Perfect for cPanel account owners of all levels.

Introduction

If you're transitioning your application from an older Apache 2.2 server to a newer Apache 2.4+ server, you'll encounter differences in configuration syntax, especially concerning access control. This guide will walk you through the migration process step by step, ensuring a smooth transition for your cPanel account.

Understanding Apache Directives

Before diving into the migration process, let's understand the fundamental differences in Apache directives between versions 2.2 and 2.4+.

• Apache 2.2: Access control is based on directives like Order, Allow, Deny, and Satisfy, primarily focusing on client hostname and IP address.
• Apache 2.4+: Access control utilizes the mod_authz_host module, allowing authorization based not only on user or group but also on environmental variables, hostnames, and IP addresses.

Locating and Editing .htaccess Files

The .htaccess file plays a crucial role in configuring server settings for specific directories. Here's how to locate and edit these files:

1. Log in to your cPanel account.

2. Navigate to the "Advanced" section and click on "Terminal for cPanel."

3. Accept the warning notice and proceed.

4. Use the following command to list all .htaccess files on your account:

   find . -name .htaccess

5. To edit a specific .htaccess file, use commands like:

   nano public_html/.htaccess

   Or navigate to the folder containing the file:

   cd public_html nano .htaccess

6. Make necessary changes using your preferred text editor (e.g., nano, vi, vim).

7. Save changes with :wq or discard with :q!.

Removing Deprecated Settings

To ensure compatibility with Apache 2.4+, remove deprecated settings like php_value and php_flag from .htaccess files using the following commands:

find /home -type f -name '.htaccess' -exec grep -Hrn 'php_value' '{}' \; find /home -type f -name '.htaccess' -exec grep -Hrn 'php_flag' '{}' \;

Alternatively, use cPanel's File Manager for a graphical interface.

Updating Access Control Directives

Here are examples of how to update access control directives from Apache 2.2 to Apache 2.4+:

FROM Apache 2.2:

Order deny,allow Deny from all

TO Apache 2.4:

Require all denied

FROM Apache 2.2:

Order allow,deny Allow from all

TO Apache 2.4:

Require all granted

Blocking IPs

To block specific IPs or domains, use the following directives:

• Blocking an IP:

Require all granted Require not ip 123.456.78.165

• Blocking a Domain:

Require not host $badDomain.com

If you need further help, please contact the WebHostingM support team