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:
- Ubuntu 20.04 or newer version installed on your Ubuntu VPS.
- Root or sudo access to your VPS.
- 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!
