How to Install Pixelfed on Ubuntu VPS

This article provides a guide for how to install Pixelfed on Ubuntu VPS.

How to Install Pixelfed on Ubuntu VPS

Pixelfed is an independent, open-source platform that mirrors Instagram. For those desiring to switch from mainstream social media platforms for a more privacy-conscious scenario or desiring a personalized social media platform for their community, Pixelfed is a great solution.

This blog post offers a comprehensive step-by-step guide on installing Pixelfed on a freshly installed Ubuntu Virtual Private Server (VPS).

Prerequisites:

1. Ubuntu 20.04 or newer version installed on your Ubuntu VPS.
2. Root or sudo access to your VPS.
3. Basic knowledge of working with the command line.

Step 1: Update Your System

Before starting the installation process, it is advisable to update your system. Run the following commands:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install Required PHP Modules

You need to install specific PHP modules for Pixelfed to work correctly. Use the following command:

sudo apt install php php-curl php-gd php-mbstring php-xml php-redis php-zip php-fpm php-bcmath -y

Step 3: Install and Configure PostgreSQL Database

Pixelfed uses PostgreSQL database. Install it using:

sudo apt install postgresql postgresql-contrib -y

After installing, create a new PostgreSQL user and database for Pixelfed:

sudo -u postgres createuser pixelfed
sudo -u postgres createdb pixelfed
sudo -u postgres psql
psql=# alter user pixelfed with encrypted password 'your_password';
psql=# grant all privileges on database pixelfed to pixelfed;
psql=# \q

Step 4: Install and Configure Redis Server

The Redis server is essential for handling caching in Pixelfed:

sudo apt install redis-server -y

Step 5: Install Composer

Composer is a tool used in PHP to manage dependencies. Install it using:

sudo apt install composer -y

Step 6: Install Pixelfed

You can clone Pixelfed from its GitHub repository and install it:

cd /var/www/
sudo git clone https://github.com/pixelfed/pixelfed.git
cd pixelfed
sudo composer install --no-ansi --no-interaction --no-progress --no-suggest

Step 7: Configure Pixelfed

Create a configuration file and update your database credentials:

sudo cp .env.example .env
sudo nano .env

Fill in your DB_USERNAME, DB_PASSWORD, and APP_URL values.

Step 8: Run Migrations and Initialize Pixelfed

Now, you are ready to run migrations and seed the database:

php artisan migrate
php artisan horizon

Following these steps should successfully install Pixelfed on your VPS.

Conclusion

Using this setup, you can launch your own privacy-centric and highly customizable social media platform. Enjoy your new Pixelfed installation!