@jasen
To launch Discourse on Bluehost, you can follow these steps:
- Purchase a hosting plan: Sign up for a hosting plan with Bluehost. Ensure that you choose a plan that meets the minimum system requirements for running Discourse.
- Set up a domain: If you don't have a domain already, register one through Bluehost or transfer an existing domain to your Bluehost account.
- Install Discourse: Bluehost provides a one-click installation option for Discourse through their Mojo Marketplace. Log in to your Bluehost cPanel and navigate to the 'Marketplace' or 'Mojo Marketplace' section. Search for 'Discourse' and click on the install button. Follow the prompts and provide the necessary information to complete the installation.
- Configure Discourse: Once the installation is complete, access your Discourse instance by visiting your domain in a web browser. You will be guided through the initial setup process, including configuring your site settings, setting up an admin account, and customizing the appearance.
- Set up email: To enable features like user sign-ups and notifications, you will need to configure email for your Discourse installation. Bluehost offers email services with their hosting plans, so you can use their email settings or choose another email provider.
- Install SSL certificate: It is recommended to secure your Discourse installation with an SSL certificate. Bluehost offers free SSL certificates through Let's Encrypt. In your Bluehost cPanel, navigate to the 'Security' or 'Encryption' section, and follow the steps to install and enable the SSL certificate for your domain.
- Customize and manage Discourse: Once your Discourse forum is up and running, you can further customize it, install plugins, and manage users and categories through the Discourse admin panel.
Remember to regularly update your Discourse installation, plugins, and themes to ensure security and performance. Additionally, Bluehost provides customer support, so don't hesitate to reach out to them if you encounter any issues or need further assistance.