Top Free and Open Source Hosting Control Panels: 2025 List

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Understanding these hosting control panels can help manage web servers in an easier way. They help control websites, emails, domains, and other tasks through a simple web dashboard. They work on a server that runs Linux. They replace the need to type complicated commands. They help people who own their own servers or small hosting companies. They save time and reduce confusion.

If you are looking for cPanel & WHM, Plesk, or DirectAdmin alternative, but can’t afford to pay for it, keep reading. These control panels do not cost money. They allow anyone to use and change their code. Their communities help fix errors and make improvements. They come with helpful tools that manage everything in one place. Users add domains, create email accounts, install apps, and check logs. Some look modern and simple. Some have more features. Some use fewer resources. Some include tools for easy backups or security settings.

Different panels work in different ways. Some come with many features built inside. Others focus on doing a few tasks well. Some have a fresh look that feels simple. Others have a look that feels older. It helps to choose one that fits personal style, skill level, and server size.

Below are some of the most popular free and open-source panels. Each section explains what makes them special, their main features, how they feel to use, what they need to run, and how to install them. Each section tries to use simple words and short steps.

After going through them, a table will show a simple rating for ease of use, speed, ability to customize, and feature set. These are not official ratings. They are just a way to compare at a glance. Actual results depend on the server and the person using it.

Free Alternatives to cPanel, Plesk, Direct Admin

Note: The installation command given here may update over time and it may differ depending on the system you use. It’s better to visit official site and check for the latest installation command.

CyberPanel

CyberPanel helps manage websites that use the web server called OpenLiteSpeed. It also supports LiteSpeed Enterprise. It includes a simple interface. It comes with tools to install apps with one click. It supports SSL certificates for security. It also manages email accounts, backups, and DNS records. It has a soft and clean design. Beginners find it easy to manage.

Supported Systems

Ubuntu, Debian, AlmaLinux, Rocky Linux, and CentOS.

Main Features

Add and manage many websites
Create email accounts and handle spam filters
Enable SSL certificates
Install apps like WordPress with one click
Manage DNS and backups

Performance

CyberPanel uses OpenLiteSpeed, which consumes fewer resources than many other web servers. This helps it load sites quickly and perform well even on small servers.

Ease of Use

The menu looks clean and modern, with icons that guide users. Most tasks require just a few clicks. Beginners find it intuitive.

Pros

Fast performance with OpenLiteSpeed
Beginner-friendly design
Supports advanced caching and LiteSpeed Enterprise

Cons

Limited to LiteSpeed servers
Some features may feel too specific for general users

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh Linux server.
Update the server system packages, download the install script, and run it:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget -O installer.sh https://cyberpanel.net/install.sh
sudo bash install.sh

Select OpenLiteSpeed or LiteSpeed Enterprise during the installation process.
Wait for the installation to complete.
Access the panel by visiting your server’s IP address and port 8090.
Log in with the credentials provided at the end of the installation.

aaPanel

aaPanel helps manage servers with a simple and nice interface. It supports many web servers, such as Apache, Nginx, and LiteSpeed. It also supports paid plugins to extend functionality. It comes with one-click installers for apps. Users manage databases, DNS, email, and files. It has a built-in file manager and includes modules for backups and security.

Supported Systems

CentOS, Ubuntu, Debian, AlmaLinux.

Main Features

Add and manage websites with Apache, Nginx, or LiteSpeed
Create and manage databases
Handle DNS settings
Add SSL certificates
Install common web apps easily
Manage files with a web-based file manager

Performance

aaPanel performs well on small or medium servers. It remains stable, with smooth functionality even when running multiple services.

Ease of Use

The interface is modern and easy to navigate. The menu layout is clear, with well-labeled buttons. Beginners appreciate its friendly design.

Pros

Supports multiple web servers
Modern and clean UI
One-click installer for apps
Flexible with both free and paid options

Cons

Some plugins require payment
Features can feel overwhelming to complete beginners

Installation Steps

Start with a clean Linux server.
Update system packages, download aaPanel installation script, and run the script:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget -O install.sh http://www.aapanel.com/script/install-ubuntu_6.0_en.sh
bash install.sh

Once complete, the script will display the login URL and credentials.
Open the URL in a browser and log in.
Choose a web server stack to install (e.g., LAMP, LNMP).
Start adding websites, apps, and configuring settings.

Webmin and Virtualmin

Webmin controls many parts of a server and is highly flexible. Virtualmin is a plugin that adds hosting-specific features to Webmin, forming a robust and comprehensive control panel. Together, they manage websites, emails, databases, and DNS. They are suitable for users who want granular control over server configurations.

Supported Systems

Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS, AlmaLinux, and Rocky Linux.

Main Features

Add and manage domains
Create and manage email accounts
Control web servers like Apache or Nginx
Manage DNS records and SSL certificates
Adjust server settings with extensive customization options

Performance

Webmin and Virtualmin are lightweight and scale well. They can handle multiple websites efficiently when properly configured.

Ease of Use

The interface feels outdated, and the menus have many options, which can overwhelm beginners. However, experienced users appreciate the depth of features.

Pros

Extremely flexible and customizable
Lightweight with good scalability
Active community support

Cons

Outdated interface design
Steep learning curve for beginners

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh Linux server.
Update system packages, download the Virtualmin install script, run the script:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget http://software.virtualmin.com/gpl/scripts/install.sh
sudo bash install.sh

Follow the prompts during installation.
Access the panel by visiting your server’s IP address and port 10000.
Log in with your root credentials.
Complete the setup wizard to configure the panel.

ISPConfig

ISPConfig is a reliable panel for hosting multiple websites, email domains, DNS, and FTP accounts. It focuses on stability and essential hosting features.

Supported Systems

Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS, AlmaLinux.

Main Features

Manage multiple websites
Create and manage email accounts
Configure DNS records
Set up FTP accounts
Integrate with Apache or Nginx web servers

Performance

ISPConfig is efficient and uses minimal resources, making it suitable for smaller servers or shared hosting environments.

Ease of Use

The interface is straightforward and organized, though it appears dated. Users can quickly learn to navigate its features.

Pros

Lightweight and stable
Ideal for managing multiple websites
Works well with both Apache and Nginx

Cons

Dated interface
Lacks advanced features found in more modern panels

Installation Steps

Prepare a Linux server with essential components like Apache or Nginx and a database server.
Update the system packages, download the ISPConfig auto-installer script,run the script as root:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget -O ispconfig-auto-installer.sh https://get.ispconfig.org
sudo bash ispconfig-auto-installer.sh

Follow the on-screen instructions during installation.
Access the panel by visiting your server’s IP address.
Log in and begin adding websites, email accounts, and more.

Ajenti

Ajenti offers a modern interface and simplifies server tasks. It is lightweight, and with the Ajenti V plugin, it gains hosting-specific features.

Supported Systems

Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS.

Main Features

Manage websites with Ajenti V
Handle email accounts
Configure DNS with additional modules
Monitor server performance through graphical displays
Manage web server software (Apache, Nginx)

Performance

Ajenti uses minimal resources, even with Ajenti V installed. It performs well on small servers and remains responsive.

Ease of Use

The interface is clean, with simple navigation. New users enjoy the minimal menus and straightforward layout.

Pros

Modern and clean design
Lightweight and efficient
Simple server management tools

Cons

Limited advanced hosting features
Relies on plugins for full functionality

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh Linux server.
Update the system packages, add Ajenti’s repository, install Ajenti, and start the service:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget -O- https://repo.ajenti.org/debian/key | apt-key add - echo "deb http://repo.ajenti.org/ng/debian main main" > /etc/apt/sources.list.d/ajenti.list
apt update && apt install ajenti
systemctl start ajenti

Access the panel at your server’s IP address on port 8000.
Log in using the default username “admin” and password “admin.”
Install Ajenti V if needed and start configuring hosting features.

CentOS Web Panel (CWP)

CentOS Web Panel focuses on CentOS and compatible distributions. It includes numerous tools, offering features similar to paid control panels.

Supported Systems

CentOS, AlmaLinux, Rocky Linux, Ubuntu.

Main Features

Manage Apache or Nginx web servers
Add email accounts and DNS records
Handle MySQL or MariaDB databases
Set up advanced security tools like CSF firewall
Perform automated backups

Performance

CWP uses more resources due to its many features. It works best on servers with sufficient memory and processing power.

Ease of Use

The interface is modern but crowded. While it offers many features, beginners may find the layout overwhelming.

Pros

Comprehensive set of tools
Supports Apache and Nginx
Includes security and automation options

Cons

Requires more server resources
Overwhelming for new users

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh system, preferably CentOS or AlmaLinux.
Update system packages, download the CWP installer, and run the installer:

yum update -y
wget http://centos-webpanel.com/cwp-el7-latest
sh cwp-el7-latest

After installation, reboot the server.
Access the panel at your server’s IP address and port 2030.
Log in as root and complete the setup.

VestaCP

VestaCP is a lightweight panel known for its simplicity and speed. It balances core hosting features with a clean interface, making it an excellent choice for small servers.

Supported Systems

Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS.

Main Features

Add and manage websites, email accounts, and DNS zones
Install SSL certificates easily
Manage FTP accounts
Integrate caching for improved performance
Provide a CLI for advanced users

Performance

VestaCP is resource-efficient and remains fast even on smaller servers. It is ideal for hosting a few websites with light to medium traffic.

Ease of Use

The interface is neat, with uncluttered menus. Its simplicity makes it accessible for beginners.

Pros

Lightweight and fast
Simple and clean UI
CLI support for advanced users
Easy SSL integration

Cons

Limited scalability for larger projects
Minimal customization options

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh Linux system.
Update system packages, download the VestaCP, and finally run the installer:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
curl -O http://vestacp.com/pub/vst-install.sh
sudo bash vst-install.sh

Follow the on-screen prompts to customize the setup.
After completion, access the panel at your server’s IP and port 8083.
Log in with the admin credentials displayed by the installer.

Sentora

Sentora is a continuation of the ZPanel project and offers a basic, easy-to-use interface for hosting small-scale projects.

Supported Systems

Ubuntu, CentOS.

Main Features

Manage domains and subdomains
Create email accounts
Handle MySQL databases
Configure FTP accounts
Use a web-based file manager

Performance

Sentora is lightweight and uses minimal resources. It focuses on essential tasks, making it suitable for small servers.

Ease of Use

The interface appears dated but is simple to navigate. It is beginner-friendly for basic hosting needs.

Pros

Lightweight and straightforward
Easy for beginners
Focuses on essential hosting features

Cons

Dated interface
Limited advanced features
Small community for support

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh Ubuntu or CentOS server.
Update system packages, download the Sentora installer, run the installer:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget -O installer.sh https://sentora.org/install
sudo bash installer.sh

Follow the prompts to configure the setup.
Access the panel at your server’s IP and assigned port.
Log in with the admin credentials provided during installation.

Froxlor

Froxlor is designed to be simple and lightweight, focusing on essential hosting features for small servers.

Supported Systems

Debian, Ubuntu, Gentoo, and others.

Main Features

Manage multiple customers and resellers
Support for Apache or Nginx
Add email accounts and DNS zones
Handle databases with ease
Enable SSL certificates

Performance

Froxlor uses minimal resources, making it ideal for low-resource servers. It performs well for small-scale hosting.

Ease of Use

The interface is clean and straightforward. Its simplicity makes it appealing to new users.

Pros

Lightweight and efficient
Easy to set up and use
Suitable for small-scale hosting

Cons

Limited features compared to modern panels
Small community and fewer resources for troubleshooting

Installation Steps

Start with a supported Linux system.
Update the system packages, download Froxlor, and extract it into your web server’s root directory

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget https://files.froxlor.org/releases/froxlor-latest.tar.gz
tar -xzf froxlor-latest.tar.gz -C /var/www/html

Access the installer by visiting your server’s IP in a browser.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

YunoHost

YunoHost is tailored for self-hosting enthusiasts, offering a friendly interface and simple tools to manage personal online services.

Supported Systems

Debian-based systems.

Main Features

Install web apps like WordPress or Nextcloud with a few clicks
Manage domains and DNS settings
Handle email accounts
Enable SSL certificates with ease
Simplify user account management

Performance

YunoHost is efficient for small servers. Its performance depends on the number of apps installed, but it stays responsive with moderate use.

Ease of Use

The interface is intuitive and beginner-friendly, making it easy for non-technical users to manage self-hosting.

Pros

Focuses on easy self-hosting
Intuitive interface
Large library of pre-configured apps

Cons

Limited scalability for high-traffic environments
Requires Debian-based systems

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh Debian server.
Follow the official installation steps from YunoHost, then run the post-installation script:

curl https://install.yunohost.org | bash
yunohost tools postinstall

Access the panel at your server’s IP address.
Log in and start adding domains and apps.

HestiaCP

HestiaCP is a modern fork of VestaCP with an updated look and additional features. It supports Apache or Nginx with PHP-FPM for better performance.

Supported Systems

Debian, Ubuntu.

Main Features

Manage web domains and subdomains
Handle email accounts and DNS settings
Install SSL certificates with Let’s Encrypt
Use Apache, Nginx, and PHP-FPM for optimized performance
Create automated backups

Performance

HestiaCP is lightweight yet powerful, running efficiently on small to medium servers.

Ease of Use

The interface is modern and user-friendly. Clear labels and organized menus make it easy for beginners.

Pros

Lightweight and fast
Modern UI with clear navigation
Excellent performance with Nginx and PHP-FPM

Cons

Limited plugins compared to other panels
Small but growing community

Installation Steps

Start with a fresh Debian or Ubuntu system.
Update system packages, download the HestiaCP installer, and run the installer

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/hestiacp/hestiacp/release/install/hst-install.sh
sudo bash hst-install.sh

Follow the prompts during installation.
After completion, access the panel at your server’s IP and port 8083.
Log in with admin credentials provided during installation.

Ratings Comparison Table

Control Panel	Ease of Use	Performance	Customizability	Features
CyberPanel	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆
aaPanel	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆
Webmin/Virtualmin	★★☆☆☆	★★★★☆	★★★★★	★★★★★
ISPConfig	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆
Ajenti	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆
CWP	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★★☆
VestaCP	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆
Sentora	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★☆☆☆	★★☆☆☆
Froxlor	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆
YunoHost	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆
HestiaCP	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆

If you are looking for professional help, feel free to contact: me@zoheb.org