Do You Support Python and Django Applications?

Introduction

If you’re planning to host a Django or Python-based web application on a shared or VPS hosting account, the good news is yes, Python and Django applications are fully supported.

You can deploy your Django projects easily using cPanel’s built-in Application Setup tool (powered by CloudLinux Passenger). This feature allows you to run Python-based applications, such as Django, Flask, or FastAPI, without needing root access or manual server configuration.

This guide explains everything you need to know about Python and Django support, including compatible versions, setup options, terminal access, and limitations within a shared hosting environment.

Python and Django Support Overview

Shared and VPS hosting environments support Python applications using CloudLinux Passenger. Passenger provides a GUI-based system that automatically handles your Python app environment, virtual environments, and process management.

This makes it ideal for:

Hosting Django websites and APIs
Running Flask or FastAPI apps
Serving WSGI-compatible Python applications
Managing Python virtual environments via cPanel

Note: Passenger runs Python apps using the WSGI interface, which is the same standard Django uses by default.

Python Versions Supported

The versions of Python available depend on your hosting plan and the server configuration. Typically, shared hosting servers support:

Python 3.6
Python 3.8
Python 3.9
Python 3.10 or higher (if available)

You can select your preferred version while creating your application from the Setup Python App tool in cPanel.

Note: Always ensure your Django version matches the Python version you’re using. Some older Django releases may not work with newer Python versions.

How Python Apps Work on Shared Hosting?

When you create a Python app through cPanel → Setup Python App, the hosting panel automatically does the following:

Creates a virtual environment for your application.
Installs Passenger to handle app execution.
Generates a default file structure for your project.
Lets you define your application root, startup file, and Python version.

This process allows you to deploy Django projects without terminal commands or manual WSGI configuration.

Terminal Access in Shared Hosting

Shared hosting users have access to a secure SSH terminal that allows you to perform command-line operations inside your Python environment.

Here’s what you can do with terminal access:

Activate your app’s virtual environment
Run pip install commands for dependencies
Execute Django management commands like python manage.py migrate
Collect static files with python manage.py collectstatic
Check logs or debug issues

To access the terminal:

Log in to your cPanel account.
Open Terminal under the Advanced section (if enabled for your plan).
Navigate to your app directory, for example:

				
					cd ~/my_django_project

3. Activate your app’s virtual environment using the command displayed in your app setup screen (for example):

				
					# source /home/username/virtualenv/myapp/3.9/bin/activate

4. Once activated, you can install dependencies and run commands directly within the environment.

Tip: If your hosting plan doesn’t show the “Terminal” option, contact your provider to enable SSH access.

How Django Works with Passenger

Django apps run smoothly on shared hosting because Passenger automatically serves your project through the WSGI interface.

Here’s what happens behind the scenes:

Passenger reads your wsgi.py file from your Django project.
It initializes your virtual environment.
Your Django app starts when a web request hits your domain.

You can manage your Django environment directly through cPanel by stopping, restarting, or editing your app.

Tip: Use the “Restart” button in cPanel’s Python App interface whenever you update your code or install new dependencies.

Confirm your purchase by clicking “Continue” button.

System Requirements for Django Hosting

Before deploying your Django app, make sure your hosting environment meets these requirements:

cPanel version: 76 or later
Python version: 3.6+
Django version: 3.x or 4.x recommended
CloudLinux with Passenger enabled
SSH Terminal Access: Recommended for command-line management
Sufficient disk space for your virtual environment and static files

Key Features and Limitations on Shared Hosting

Features:

After payment, you’ll receive an email with your login details for the hosting control panel (like cPanel or our custom dashboard).

Run Django and Python apps without root access
Integrated virtual environment setup
Terminal access for advanced management
GUI-based app management via cPanel
Support for WSGI-based frameworks
Easy dependency installation via requirements.txt

Limitations:

Background tasks (e.g., Celery) may not persist
Limited resource allocation (CPU, RAM) under CloudLinux
No root-level package installation
Persistent WebSocket connections not supported on some servers

Note: If you need long-running processes or greater flexibility, consider upgrading to a VPS plan where you can manage Gunicorn, Nginx, and Celery manually.

Best Practices for Running Django Apps

Creating a hosting account on BigCloudy.com is quick and straightforward. By following the steps above, you can select the right plan, register or connect your domain, complete payment, and start managing your website instantly through cPanel or our custom dashboard. Get started today and launch your online presence with ease!

Keep your Django and Python versions updated.
Always use a virtual environment (automatically created by cPanel).
Use requirements.txt to manage dependencies.
Use the terminal to apply migrations and manage your project.
Run collectstatic to gather static files after each deployment.
Set DEBUG=False in production for better security.
Use strong secret keys and store them in environment variables.

Note: Use Git integration in cPanel or SSH for smoother deployment and version control.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

503 Error: Usually means your app stopped running or Passenger needs a restart.
Missing Modules: Check if you installed all dependencies from requirements.txt.
Version Mismatch: Ensure Django and Python versions are compatible.
App not loading: Verify your startup file (usually passenger_wsgi.py) path is correct.
Permission Denied: Ensure you’re running commands inside the correct virtual environment via the terminal.

Note: Always restart the app from cPanel after any code or package update.

Need Help?

If you require assistance at any point while using this guide, our Support Team is here to help:

Email: support@bigcloudy.com
Submit a support ticket

Conclusion

Python and Django applications are supported on shared and VPS hosting through cPanel using CloudLinux Passenger. The setup process provides a managed environment with virtual environments, version selection, and application controls available through the control panel. SSH access allows dependency installation and routine Django management tasks when needed.

This setup works well for standard Django, Flask, and FastAPI applications that follow WSGI conventions. Shared hosting limits still apply, particularly for background tasks and long-running processes. For applications that require persistent workers, higher resource limits, or deeper server control, a VPS environment is a better fit.

FAQ

Can I run multiple Django apps on the same hosting account?

Yes, you can create multiple Python applications in cPanel, each with its own environment and domain or subdomain.

Is SSH access required for Django hosting?

Not required, but highly recommended. SSH access helps you install packages, manage dependencies, and run commands easily.

Does the shared hosting plan support Django’s manage.py commands?

Yes. You can execute them through cPanel’s built-in terminal or an external SSH client.

Can I upgrade or change my Python version later?

Yes. You can edit your application settings and select a different Python version anytime.

What is the correct startup file for Django on cPanel?

Typically, it’s passenger_wsgi.py, located inside your project directory.