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OS Upgrades

Now Available: AlmaLinux 9, Ubuntu 22 and CloudLinux 9

WHC News & Events

We're thrilled to announce that AlmaLinux 9 & Ubuntu 22 are now seamlessly integrated with our Cloud and Dedicated server offerings, and CloudLinux 9 is available with our Dedicated Servers. If you're running your own servers or looking to spin up a new one, keep reading to discover how these updates can benefit you.

What is AlmaLinux 9?

AlmaLinux 9 is an enterprise-grade operating system (OS) designed as a successor to CentOS, offering a robust platform for your servers to efficiently manage and deliver websites and email services. It was developed to provide a stable and secure alternative in response to the shifting support landscape of CentOS, and addresses the discontinuation of essential security updates following CentOS 7 reaching 'end of life'.

What is Ubuntu 22?

Ubuntu 22, officially known as Ubuntu 22.04 LTS 'Jammy Jellyfish' is the latest Long-Term Support version from Canonical, optimized for both cloud and dedicated servers. It delivers a stable and secure environment with enhanced hardware support and advanced security features. With five years of guaranteed support, it's an ideal choice for server administrators looking for reliable and consistent server performance.

What is CloudLinux 9?

CloudLinux 9 is a high-performance operating system designed for web hosting, offering enhanced security, stability, and resource control. It isolates users in Lightweight Virtual Environments (LVE), ensuring consistent performance without disruptions. Key features like CageFS for account security and MySQL Governor for resource management make it an ideal choice for Dedicated servers. With long-term support, CloudLinux 9 is perfect for administrators seeking reliable security and optimized efficiency.

If you have a Dedicated Server, we recommend CloudLinux 9 for its superior security, stability, and resource management, ensuring optimal performance for your server.
Please note: CloudLinux 9 is not an available option for Cloud servers.

All new Cloud or Dedicated activated servers can be provisioned with AlmaLinux 9 or Ubuntu 22, while Dedicated servers come with the additional option for CloudLinux 9, allowing you to take advantage of the latest security and performance enhancements right from the start.

Why choose AlmaLinux 9?

AlmaLinux 9 brings several compelling benefits that make it a top choice for enterprise environments. Here are some of the notable advantages:

  • Enterprise-Ready: As an enterprise-grade OS, AlmaLinux 9 is well-equipped to handle heavy server workloads with stability and efficiency.
  • Extended Support: AlmaLinux 9 is guaranteed support until at least 2031, providing long-term security patches and updates to keep your systems secure and compliant.
  • Seamless Transition: AlmaLinux offers a 1:1 binary compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), making the switch from CentOS or other RHEL derivatives straightforward and hassle-free.
  • Full cPanel Compatibility: AlmaLinux has strong support for cPanel, ensuring smooth management of hosting environments and websites right from the start.

Choosing AlmaLinux 9 means opting for a robust, secure, and well-supported OS that aligns with the needs of modern enterprise servers and applications.

AlmaLinux 9 vs. AlmaLinux 8

The upgrade from AlmaLinux 8 to AlmaLinux 9 introduces a range of enhancements aimed at improving performance, security, and manageability:

  • Kernel and System Updates: AlmaLinux 9 runs on the Linux kernel 5.14, which offers better hardware support and performance optimizations compared to the 4.18 kernel used in AlmaLinux 8. This ensures enhanced compatibility with the latest hardware technologies.
  • Security Enhancements: Enhanced security features include stronger encryption protocols and automated security patching, better equipping the latest release to handle modern cybersecurity threats.
  • Software and Tools Upgrade: The upgrade includes newer versions of key software packages such as Python, PHP, and MySQL, which are more stable and feature-rich.
  • Streamlined System Management: AlmaLinux 9 introduces a more intuitive system management interface, making tasks like software updates and network configurations easier and reducing administrative overhead.

CloudLinux 9 vs. AlmaLinux 9

CloudLinux is a commercial OS built specifically for website and email hosting. It’s the OS that currently powers WHC’s Web Hosting, Reseller Hosting, and Managed WordPress Hosting services, and it’s the recommended OS for Dedicated Servers.

The main benefits of CloudLinux 9 over AlmaLinux 9 are:

  • Superior Security: CloudLinux 9 offers advanced security features like CageFS, a virtual per-user filesystem that prevents attacks, HardenedPHP, which secures outdated PHP versions, and SecureLinks, a kernel-level protection mechanism. These features help ensure a higher level of security in hosting environments.
  • Enhanced Performance: CloudLinux 9 utilizes Mod_lsapi, an optimized PHP handler that delivers faster and more reliable PHP performance. Additionally, the OS provides centralized monitoring and diagnostics tools, enabling quicker identification and resolution of performance issues.
  • Resource Isolation: With CloudLinux 9, resource isolation through LVE technology limits the impact of high resource usage on the specific tenant, preventing downtime and improving overall server stability and performance in shared environments.
  • Advanced Hosting Features: CloudLinux 9 includes specialized tools like MySQL Governor for monitoring and managing SQL usage and LVE Manager for enhanced control panel management, offering greater control and efficiency in managing hosting services.
  • Full cPanel Compatibility: CloudLinux is fully compatible with cPanel, and many of its features can be managed directly from your WHM/cPanel interface. 

What about Ubuntu 22?

Ubuntu 22 brings a host of compelling features and benefits, making it a viable candidate for both enterprise environments and individual users. Here are some of the notable advantages:

  • Enterprise-Ready with Long-Term Support: Designed for stability and efficiency, Ubuntu 22 is now a supported OS for servers running cPanel with Long-Term Support (LTS) until 2027, ensuring continuous security updates and compliance.
  • Enhanced Security: Ubuntu 22 features advanced security measures like kernel live patching and improved security modules, providing robust protection for your data and infrastructure.
  • Optimized Performance: With optimizations for the latest hardware, Ubuntu 22 delivers exceptional performance, particularly for multi-core processors and modern GPUs, ensuring smooth and efficient application operations.
  • Community Support: Ubuntu has a large, active community that offers extensive documentation, forums, and third-party resources, making it easier to find solutions, share knowledge, and receive support.
  • Cloud and Container Ready: Ubuntu 22 is optimized for cloud deployments and containerized applications, with robust support for Docker, Kubernetes, and other cloud-native technologies, ensuring seamless integration and management.

While WHC recommends CloudLinux 9 or AlmaLinux 9 for most servers, choosing Ubuntu 22 means opting for a secure, high-performance, and enterprise-ready operating system supported by a vibrant community that meets the needs of modern IT environments.

Should I upgrade my server’s OS?

If you have a Cloud or Dedicated server with an older operating system like CentOS 7, you should strongly consider upgrading your operating system as CentOS 7 has now reached its end-of-life (EOL). Dedicated server users can choose from AlmaLinux 9, Ubuntu 22, or CloudLinux 9 (recommended). For Cloud server users, you can choose between AlmaLinux 9 (recommended) or Ubuntu 22.

Upgrading brings enhanced security features, better performance, and access to the latest tools and software. This move is essential to ensure your server remains secure, efficient, and compliant with current standards.

The process of upgrading varies based on your setup, but may involve setting up a new server with your desired Operating System, and then carefully migrating your data from the old server to ensure continuity and integrity. Our support team is available to help guide you through the upgrade process, and can even take on the process for you, making it as seamless as possible.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out!

Domain Protection

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Domain Protection

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Why choose Domain Protection?

Shield your domain from unauthorized or accidental changes and protect your brand’s ownership.

  Domain Protection Domain Privacy
Protects your Identity
Ownership Protection
Enhanced Account Security
C$9.99/yr INCLUDED
Add Domain Protection now! Add Protection

Domain Protection FAQ

Domain Protection adds an extra layer of security to your domain by requiring Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for any critical changes, such as updating nameservers or modifying contacts. This ensures that only authorized users can make changes to your domain, keeping it secure from unauthorized access.
Whenever you make critical changes to your domain or account information, you will receive a Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) code via email. Entering this code will grant you the ability to make changes to your domain for a 15-minute window. After this period, the changes will be automatically locked again.
You can easily activate Domain Protection for your existing domain by logging into your account, navigating to the domain management section, and enabling the Domain Protection feature. Once activated, you’ll be prompted to verify all critical actions.
Disabling Domain Protection removes the Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) requirement for critical domain changes, potentially leaving your domain vulnerable to unauthorized modifications. We strongly advise keeping Domain Protection enabled to maintain the highest level of security for your domain.
Absolutely! You can easily combine Domain Protection with other products or services during the checkout process. For example, when purchasing a new domain or any other eligible service, you can add Domain Protection to enhance the security of your new assets.

Pro Services

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Professional Web Services

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From web design to care plans, we’ll handle your site so you can focus on what you do best.

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Bring your project to life!

Need a stunning new website? Save time and let our experts do the heavy lifting.

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Care
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Keep your site in top shape!

Enjoy a stress-free website with smooth updates, robust security, and peak performance.

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SEO
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Increase your visibility!

Drive more traffic on your site through improved search rankings, optimized keywords, and more.

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We’re here to help.

With personalized support, expert advice, and tailored solutions, we’re here to make sure your online presence packs a punch. WHC is here to handle all the details while you focus on your business.

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Explore all we have to offer.

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explore our services and launch your journey to success.

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Revitalize your existing site with a fresh, trendy design.

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Build an incredible new website from scratch.

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Designs that pop, tailored to your unique brand identity and vision.

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Proactive maintenance to keep your website running smoothly and securely.

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Essential tools, best practices, and tips to help you get the most out of your online presence.

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Compelling, relevant content that keeps users coming back for more.

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Targeted strategies to enhance your online visibility, making your website easy to find and impossible to ignore.

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Professional Web Services FAQ

Professional services encompass specialized expertise and support for areas like web design, SEO, and care/maintenance. They ensure your business operates efficiently online, allowing you to focus on growth.
A consultation can help assess your business goals and identify gaps in your current online presence. Services are then tailored to meet your specific needs.
It depends on the service! Some, like web design, are project-based, while others, such as maintenance and SEO, are ongoing to ensure optimal performance.
We do! This service is designed to enhance your site’s speed, performance, and overall user experience. It’s a quick, effective way to give your site a boost without committing to ongoing maintenance.
Yes, services are tailored to align with your industry’s unique needs and standards, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.
Timelines vary depending on the scope of the service. You'll receive a detailed timeline during the initial consultation.

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Extended Lifecycle Support (ELS) is Now Active for CentOS 7 & CloudLinux 7

WHC News & Events
As of June 30, 2024, CentOS 7 and CloudLinux 7 operating systems have reached their end-of-life and are no longer receiving important security updates. To keep everything in tip-top shape, we’re seamlessly extending support for these systems through 2025, thanks to cPanel’s Extended Lifecycle Support (ELS), for a small additional monthly fee.

Am I impacted by this change?

This change only affects clients with Managed Cloud and Dedicated Server services running on CentOS 7 (or older) and CloudLinux 7 (or older). If your servers are not updated by September 1, 2024, an additional fee(s) for Extended Lifecycle Support (ELS) will apply. This additional fee comes from our provider, cPanel, and it's affecting everyone in the industry. But don’t worry, this fee will no longer be charged to your account once your Operating System has been upgraded to a currently supported version of the operating system.

What is the additional fee?

The ELS monthly fee will depend on the number of cPanel accounts you have, as follows:

Managed Cloud

cPanel Accounts Extended Lifecycle Support Cost
1 C$2.00 per server, per month
2-5 C$3.00 per server, per month
6-30 C$5.00 per server, per month
31-50 C$7.00 per server, per month
51+ C$10.00 per server, per month

Dedicated Servers

cPanel Accounts Extended Lifecycle Support Cost
1 C$2.00 per server, per month
2+ C$10.00 per server, per month
This fee will increase gradually every 6 months until all servers have been upgraded.

How can I avoid this additional fee?

Want to avoid the extended support fee? WHC will waive additional charges if you schedule a migration to a support operating system by opening a ticket for our billing team by August 15, 2024.

How can I determine my OS Version and the number of cPanel accounts in use?

To proceed, follow these steps:
  1. Log in to your Client Area.
  2. Click on Manage next to your server (Cloud or Dedicated).
  3. Click on the gearbox button on the top right, then select Plan Details.
  4. Click on Upgrade/Downgrade Options.
  5. Look for the Operating System and cPanel fields on the left.

We’re here to help

We understand that migrations can be frustrating, but these updates are essential to keep your servers secure and performing at their best. And don’t forget that WHC will be by your side throughout the process! If you have any questions or concerns about how these fees may affect you, or if you'd like to revisit your solutions with us and find out if this is still the right solution for you, please contact your account manager to discuss it. Thank you for your understanding and continued trust in our services. We are committed to continuously delivering the best possible experience for you.

Discover what’s new in WordPress 6.6

WordPress
WordPress 6.6 has landed! It brings a suite of updates designed to enrich your site's functionality and aesthetic appeal. At WHC, we're committed to helping you succeed online, and we’re excited to dive into the details of this update. Let’s explore how these new features can transform the way you create and manage your website.
If you manage a complex website with several plugins, we recommend waiting a few weeks before upgrading to 6.6 to avoid any compatibility issues. Major upgrades may break some plugins/themes.

What’s New in WordPress 6.6?

WordPress 6.6 introduces enhancements that promise to streamline your web design and management experience even further. Whether you're a novice building your first website or a seasoned developer, WordPress 6.6 is designed to make your workflow more efficient and intuitive.
In addition to the new features offered by WordPress 6.6, WHC has also recently enhanced WordPress for its customers by launching new AI-powered features. Discover AI-powered WordPress.

Exploring the Standout Features of WordPress 6.6

Introducing the New Grid Block

Elevate your site's layout with WordPress 6.6's new Grid block. This feature allows you to display any blocks in a well-organized grid layout, providing enhanced control over columns and styling for both the grid and individual items. Adjust the minimum column width and set the grid layout to 'Manual' to drag items across columns for custom designs, ensuring your layouts remain beautiful across all devices. Screenshot of the new Grid block in WordPress 6.6

Enhanced Color and Typography Customization

WordPress 6.6 enhances block themes by allowing theme authors to create unlimited color and font sets. This addition offers more precise design options within the same theme, allowing for deeper customization of color and typography without altering the site's broader styling. These sets open up new possibilities for unique and personalized website appearances. Screenshot of the new styles section in WordPress 6.6.

Quick Previews for Pages

Optimize your editing workflow with WordPress 6.6’s improved layout for managing pages. The new side-by-side layout in the Site Editor allows you to view all your pages and preview any selected page before editing, simplifying the process and saving you time. Screenshot of the new preview pages section in WordPress 6.6.

Rollbacks for Plugin Auto-Updates

Experience worry-free plugin updates with the new automatic rollback feature for plugin auto-updates in WordPress 6.6. If an update causes issues, WordPress will automatically revert to the previous stable version of the plugin, enhancing your site's stability and security while minimizing potential downtime.

Major Performance Enhancements

WordPress 6.6 brings significant performance improvements, including a 33% reduction in template loading time in the editor, removal of redundant WP_Theme_JSON calls, and optimizations such as disabling autoload for large options, eliminating unnecessary polyfill dependencies, and introducing lazy loading for post embeds. These updates contribute to a faster, more responsive site editing experience.

Accessibility Improvements

With over 55 accessibility fixes and enhancements, WordPress 6.6 focuses on improving foundational elements of the user experience, particularly in new site editing features and crucial interaction areas like the Inserter. These updates ensure a more accessible and inclusive environment for all users. Want to learn more? Check out the official 6.6 release notes for additional info about this release.

Upgrading to WordPress 6.6

WordPress 6.6 is now available on our Web Hosting and Managed WordPress plans. If you have a complex site, it's best to test the new version on a staging site first. This approach ensures that your live site remains unaffected until you confirm the new version's stability and compatibility with your setup.
Backup Your Site: Always ensure you have a functional backup before upgrading. This safety measure allows you to revert to your previous setup if needed.
WordPress 6.6 is an opportunity to leverage new functionalities and design enhancements to make your website more robust, attractive, and user-friendly. For any questions or assistance with updating to WordPress 6.6, our WHC support team is here to help you maximize these exciting new features.

Looking Forward

As you prepare to upgrade, remember that staying updated with WordPress not only enhances your site's capabilities but also its security. Get ready to explore all that WordPress 6.6 has to offer and stay tuned for future updates as we continue to help you excel in the digital space.