How do I deploy a Node.js app on your hosting?

Introduction

Deploying a Node.js application doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you’re using BigCloudy’s cPanel-based Node.js hosting. Whether you’re launching a REST API, a real-time application, or a custom JavaScript backend, BigCloudy makes it easy to install and run Node.js apps on shared hosting without requiring root access or advanced server knowledge.

With the built-in Node.js App Setup feature in cPanel, BigCloudy allows beginners and experienced developers alike to deploy server-side JavaScript applications in just a few clicks. There’s no need to rely on complex terminal commands or manual server configuration, everything is handled through an intuitive graphical interface.

In this guide, you’ll learn step by step how to deploy a Node.js application on BigCloudy Node.js Hosting, configure your environment, install dependencies, and get your app running smoothly on a domain or subdomain. If you’re looking for a reliable, beginner-friendly way to host Node.js apps, you’re in the right place.

Why Node.js on cPanel?

Node.js on cPanel allows developers and website owners a powerful way to run scalable, event-driven applications using JavaScript. Since cPanel is the most popular hosting control panel in shared and VPS environments, it provides a convenient, GUI-based way to manage your Node.js environments.

This seamless setup allows you to:

Install Node.js on cPanel without root-level scripting.
Focus on coding your app, not managing the infrastructure.
Deploy real-time apps, RESTful APIs, and microservices quickly and easily.

System Requirements for Node.js on cPanel

Before getting started, make sure your hosting environment matches the following requirements:

cPanel version: 76+ (with Node.js support enabled)
Node.js Selector: Typically included in CloudLinux or equivalent.
Shell or Terminal Access (SSH): Recommended for advanced tasks like installing packages with NPM.
Enough disk space and memory.

Note: Need root access for full control? Check the step-by-step guide on installing Node.js on WHM using EasyApache

Steps to Create a Node.js Application in cPanel

Step 1: Log in to the cPanel Account

Go to your cPanel dashboard and sign in to your hosting account.

Step 2: Open the Node.js App Setup

Scroll down to the Software section and click on Setup Node.js App.

Step 3: Create Application

Click on Create Application to set up a new Node.js environment.

Step 4: Enter App Details

Enter the required information to proceed with the application setup:

Mode of Application: Choose development for testing and debugging or production for live applications.
Node.js Version: Select the Node.js version according to the needs of your application.
Root of Application: The directory where your application’s main files (like package.json and your startup file) are located.
Domain or Subdomain: Choose where your application will be accessible.
Startup File: The main file that starts your application (usually server.js or app.js).

Once you enter all the required information, click Create.
Your Node.js application will now be created.
You can stop, start, restart, or remove it at any time.

Install App Dependencies via NPM

Upload your package.json file to the root folder of your app through File Manager or FTP.
Then go to cPanel and click the Run NPM Install button. This will automatically install all dependencies.

To install NPM packages or run commands manually:

Connect via SSH.
Enter the app’s virtual environment using the command displayed on your Node.js setup page in cPanel.
After entering the environment, start your application using:

# npm start

Tips to Optimize Your Node.js Setup

- - Use version control like Git to manage app files efficiently.
  - Regularly update dependencies and Node.js to the latest supported versions.
  - Use the cPanel dashboard to monitor your app’s performance and restart apps when needed.
  - Follow best practices for security and performance tuning.
Note: Want to restart Node.js using PM2 on cPanel? Check out our step-by-step guide!

Why Host Your Node.js App with Big Cloudy

SSH and Git support for seamless deployment.
EasyApache 4 compatibility ensures stable Node.js performance.
One-click app deployment for fast setup.
24/7 expert support for setup and debugging.

Ready to scale your Node.js app?

Check out our Node.js Hosting Plans and get started today!

Conclusion

Running a Node.js application on cPanel shared hosting is practical and accessible, even without root access or advanced server skills. The Node.js App Setup feature in cPanel provides a clear workflow for creating environments, selecting Node.js versions, configuring startup files, and managing applications from a single interface. Dependencies can be installed through NPM, and applications can be started, stopped, or restarted as needed.

By meeting the basic system requirements and following standard setup steps, developers can deploy APIs, web apps, and backend services efficiently. With optional SSH access, version control, and regular maintenance, cPanel offers a stable and manageable environment for hosting Node.js applications on shared hosting.

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

FAQ

Can I run multiple Node.js apps in one cPanel account?

Yes, you can create multiple Node.js environments, each mapped to a separate domain or subdomain.

What Node.js versions are available in cPanel?

It depends on your hosting provider. Most support LTS versions like Node.js 18.x, 20.x, 22.x., or 24.x.

Do I need SSH access to run Node.js apps?

Not always. Basic app setup and deployment can be done directly through the control panel, but SSH is recommended for advanced tasks.

How do I update Node.js in cPanel?

You can switch versions in your Node.js App setup page if multiple versions are supported.

What if my app fails to start after setup?

Check your startup file, logs, and ensure all NPM dependencies are installed correctly.