Install SMF Forum Using Softaculous in cPanel

1. Log in to your cPanel account.
2. In the Software section, click Softaculous App Installer.
   
3. In Softaculous, open the Forums category and select SMF.
   
4. Click Install.
   
5. Complete the Software Setup fields:
   • Choose Protocol: Select the protocol you want to use for the forum.
   • Choose Domain: Select the domain where you want to install SMF.
   • In Directory: Enter a directory name to install the forum at a path such as example.com/forums. Leave this blank to install it at the domain's root.
6. Under Board Settings, enter the forum's name, board email address, and whether to display a visual verification image.
   
7. Under Admin Account, set the administrator username, a strong password, real name, and email address. Avoid common usernames such as admin or Administrator.
   
8. Under Choose Language, select the forum's default language. English is selected by default.
9. Review Advanced Options. Leave the defaults unless you need to change the database name or configure automated backups. Backups use disk space.
10. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click Install.
    

Keep the administrator login details in a secure place. You will need them to sign in to the SMF administration area.