How to Install a Web Server, MySQL, and PHP on openSUSE Tumbleweed
This guide walks you through the steps to install and configure a LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP) on openSUSE Tumbleweed. The LAMP stack is a powerful setup that forms the backbone of many web applications, making it essential for web developers and enthusiasts alike. openSUSE Tumbleweed, with its rolling release model, ensures that your system remains up-to-date with the latest software.
Prerequisites
Keeping Your System Updated
Before diving into the installation, make sure your system is up-to-date. This ensures compatibility with the latest software and security patches.
Understanding User Privileges
To install and configure software on openSUSE, you’ll need root privileges or access to the sudo command.
Step 1: Update Your System
Updating your system is the first step to ensuring a smooth installation process. Open a terminal and run the following commands:
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sudo zypper refresh
sudo zypper update
These commands will refresh your package list and update your system to the latest versions. Depending on your internet speed and the number of updates, this may take some time.
Step 2: Install Apache Web Server
Introduction to Apache
Apache is a widely-used web server known for its stability and flexibility. It’s the backbone of many websites and is a crucial part of the LAMP stack.
Installation Command
To install Apache, run the following command:
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sudo zypper install apache2
Starting and Enabling Apache
After installation, start the Apache service and set it to start automatically at boot:
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sudo systemctl start apache2
sudo systemctl enable apache2
Verifying the Installation
To verify that Apache is running correctly, open a web browser and go to http://yourIP. You should see the default Apache welcome page.
Step 3: Install MySQL
Introduction to MySQL
MySQL is a powerful relational database management system (RDBMS) widely used for storing and managing data in web applications.
Installation Command
Install MySQL by running:
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sudo zypper install mysql mysql-client
Starting and Securing MySQL
Once installed, start the MySQL service and secure it by running:
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sudo systemctl start mysql
sudo mysql_secure_installation
The mysql_secure_installation script will guide you through setting up a root password and securing your MySQL installation.
Verifying the Installation
To confirm that MySQL is installed and running correctly, try logging into the MySQL shell:
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mysql -u root -p
If you can log in, the installation was successful.
Step 4: Install PHP
Introduction to PHP
PHP is a server-side scripting language designed primarily for web development. It’s used to create dynamic content and interact with databases.
Installation Command
To install PHP and the necessary extensions, run:
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sudo zypper install php7 php7-mysql apache2-mod_php7
Configuring PHP with Apache
PHP should automatically integrate with Apache during installation. However, it’s always good to verify the configuration by checking Apache’s settings.
Verifying the Installation
Create a simple PHP file to test the setup:
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echo "<?php phpinfo(); ?>" | sudo tee /srv/www/htdocs/info.php
Visit http://localhost/info.php in your web browser. If you see a page displaying PHP information, PHP is working correctly.
Step 5: Configure the Firewall
Allowing Apache Through the Firewall
If you have a firewall enabled, you need to allow traffic on ports 80 (HTTP) and 443 (HTTPS) for Apache:
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sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=http
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=https
sudo firewall-cmd --reload
Verifying the Firewall Configuration
To confirm that the firewall is correctly configured, run:
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sudo firewall-cmd --list-all
Step 6: Test the LAMP Stack
Creating a PHP Info File
The info.php file you created earlier is an excellent way to test if PHP is working properly with Apache and MySQL.
Testing the Integration
If the PHP info page loads correctly and you can connect to MySQL from PHP, your LAMP stack is set up correctly.
Step 7: Managing Services
Starting, Stopping, and Restarting Services
At times, you may need to control the Apache and MySQL services. Here are the commands you’ll use:
For Apache:
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sudo systemctl start apache2
sudo systemctl stop apache2
sudo systemctl restart apache2
For MySQL:
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sudo systemctl start mysql
sudo systemctl stop mysql
sudo systemctl restart mysql
Enabling Services at Boot
To ensure your services start automatically when your system boots, use:
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sudo systemctl enable apache2
sudo systemctl enable mysql
Common Troubleshooting Tips
Addressing Installation Issues
If you run into problems, common issues include package conflicts or missing dependencies. These can often be resolved by reviewing the installation steps or checking for error messages during the process.
Checking Logs
Apache and MySQL logs are invaluable for diagnosing issues. You can view the logs with:
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sudo journalctl -u apache2
sudo journalctl -u mysql
Optimizing Your LAMP Stack
Tuning Apache Performance
Consider enabling caching modules and adjusting the MaxRequestWorkers directive to improve Apache’s performance.
Securing MySQL
Beyond the initial setup, further secure your MySQL installation by limiting root access, removing unnecessary users, and using strong passwords.
Tweaking PHP Settings
To optimize PHP, you can adjust settings in the php.ini file, such as increasing the memory limit and execution time for better performance.
Uninstalling the LAMP Stack
Removing Apache, MySQL, and PHP
If you ever need to uninstall the LAMP stack, use the following command:
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sudo zypper remove apache2 mysql php7
Cleaning Up
After uninstalling, you can remove any leftover configuration files with:
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sudo rm -rf /etc/apache2 /etc/mysql /etc/php7
Conclusion
Setting up a LAMP stack on openSUSE Tumbleweed is straightforward, and with Tumbleweed’s rolling release, you’ll always have access to the latest software. This guide has walked you through the installation and configuration process, ensuring you have a solid foundation for your web development projects on openSUSE Tumbleweed.