Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
To run Joomla behind Cloudflare on Ubuntu, first install a Joomla-compatible PHP runtime, Apache, and a supported database; then place the Joomla files in an Apache document root and finish the browser installer. After Joomla works directly on the server, install a valid certificate on the Apache origin, select Cloudflare Full (strict), proxy the web DNS records, and configure Apache to recover real visitor IPs from trusted Cloudflare headers. Doing the origin setup before changing Cloudflare to strict mode prevents certificate errors, redirect loops, and mixed-content failures.
The exact package names depend on your Ubuntu release. Joomla 6 requires PHP 8.3 or newer (PHP 8.4 is recommended), Apache 2.4, and a supported database, so verify those versions before running installation commands.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsWhat must Ubuntu provide for Joomla 6?
Joomla 6’s requirements are the compatibility gate for the entire deployment. Check the versions available in your chosen Ubuntu release before installing packages; an older distribution repository may not contain a supported PHP release.
| Component | Joomla 6 requirement | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| PHP | 8.3 minimum/supported; 8.4 recommended | Confirm the repository version and the PHP version Apache will load. |
| Web server | Apache 2.4 | Use the Ubuntu Apache package and confirm the service is enabled. |
| Database | MySQL 8.0.13, MariaDB 10.4, or PostgreSQL 12 minimum | Choose an engine and version that your Ubuntu release supplies and that your administrator can back up and restore confidently. |
| Required PHP modules | json, simplexml, dom, zlib, gd, plus a supported database driver such as mysqlnd, pdo_mysql, or pdo_pgsql |
Check the loaded modules from the same PHP installation Apache uses. |
| PHP memory | At least 256 MB recommended by Joomla | Set the value in the active Apache PHP configuration, not only in a command-line PHP configuration. |
| URL rewriting | mod_rewrite is optional for SEO-friendly URLs |
Enable it only when your URL and .htaccess plan requires it. |
Joomla’s installation guidance also lists these minimum installer settings: memory_limit 256M, upload_max_filesize 64M, post_max_size 64M, and max_execution_time 30. Treat them as installation baselines; extensions, media uploads, backups, and updates may require more resources.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Which Ubuntu release and database should you choose?
Choose an Ubuntu release whose repositories satisfy Joomla 6’s PHP and database minimums, then stay with that release’s supported packages rather than copying commands written for Joomla 4, Joomla 5, or a different Ubuntu version. Check the candidate PHP package, Apache package, and database package before committing the server.
MySQL, MariaDB, or PostgreSQL
All three are valid Joomla alternatives. Joomla’s requirements do not establish a universal winner, so make the decision using operational factors:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →- Repository fit: select the engine and version already supported by your Ubuntu release, or use a maintained vendor repository only after confirming compatibility.
- Administrator familiarity: the database your team can monitor, secure, back up, and restore reliably is usually the safest choice.
- Hosting constraints: managed hosting or an existing backup platform may limit which engine you can deploy.
- Joomla driver: install the PHP driver matching the selected engine and verify it is loaded by Apache.
Record the database name, username, password, and host before opening the Joomla installer. The installer needs those exact connection details.
How do I install Apache, PHP, and Joomla’s PHP extensions?
Install Apache, a supported PHP version, the Apache PHP module, the required extensions, and one database server. Package names vary by Ubuntu release and PHP version, so use the release’s package search to map each required module instead of pasting an unverified list.
- Update the Ubuntu package index and install Apache from the distribution repositories.
- Install the compatible PHP runtime and Apache integration. Ubuntu’s documented basic pattern is
sudo apt install php libapache2-mod-php; add the version-specific Joomla extensions and the database driver for your selected engine. - Enable or confirm the Apache PHP module supplied by the package, then restart Apache after PHP-related packages or module settings change.
- Check the PHP version and loaded modules from the server. Confirm that
json,simplexml,dom,zlib,gd, and the selected database driver are available to the web process. - Open the active PHP configuration used by Apache and apply Joomla’s installer baselines: 256M memory, 64M upload limit, 64M POST limit, and a 30-second execution limit. Restart Apache so the new values take effect.
Do not assume the command-line php binary and Apache use the same configuration file. A command-line module check can pass while the browser installer still reports a missing extension; verify the web-serving PHP environment as well.
How do I create a least-privilege Joomla database?
Create a dedicated database and a dedicated user for Joomla instead of reusing an administrative database account. Grant that user access only to the Joomla database, store the password in a password manager, and keep the host value you will enter in the installer.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
MySQL or MariaDB workflow
Use the database server’s administrative console to create the database, create a user restricted to the required host, and grant that user privileges on the Joomla database. The exact SQL syntax and authentication defaults differ between MySQL and MariaDB releases, so follow the syntax shipped with your selected Ubuntu package. Test a login with the new account before starting the web installer.
PostgreSQL workflow
Create a database and login role, grant ownership or the narrowly scoped privileges Joomla needs, and verify local authentication rules permit the web server to connect. Keep the database host, port, role, and password together for the installer form.
Do not put database passwords in publicly readable files or temporary diagnostic pages. Remove any test scripts after confirming connectivity.
How should I place Joomla files in Apache?
Choose the final site hostname and document root before unpacking Joomla. Apache’s virtual host must point that hostname to the directory containing Joomla’s application files, and the Apache service account must be able to read them while Joomla has write access only where the application requires it.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
- Download the official Joomla installation archive to a location outside the public document root.
- Create the intended document-root directory and unpack the archive there, preserving Joomla’s directory structure.
- Set ownership and permissions so Apache can serve the files and Joomla can write only to required media, cache, or update locations. Avoid making the entire tree broadly writable.
- Configure an Apache virtual host for the final hostname and document root, then enable that site and reload Apache using the Ubuntu service tools. The exact directives depend on your Ubuntu release and local layout, so validate them against the current Apache documentation.
- Keep the archive, extraction leftovers, PHP diagnostic files, and other temporary artifacts outside the document root or delete them after use.
Test the hostname locally or through your normal DNS path before placing Cloudflare in front of it. The Joomla installer should be reachable over the hostname you intend to certify, not through an arbitrary temporary address.
How do I complete Joomla’s browser installer?
Open the site hostname in a browser and follow the installer screens after Apache serves the unpacked files.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Enter a descriptive site name and the requested site metadata.
- Create the administrator account with a non-default username and a unique, strong password. Do not use a predictable name such as “admin.”
- Choose the database type that matches the driver you installed, then enter the database host, database name, username, password, and any required port.
- Let Joomla check the PHP version, extensions, writable paths, and configuration values. Resolve reported failures before proceeding.
- Finish installation and follow the installer’s instruction to remove or secure installation artifacts. Confirm that the administrator login and the public homepage both work.
At this point, test Joomla on the origin hostname before changing Cloudflare’s encryption mode. Fix PHP, permissions, database, or Apache errors while the request path is simple.
How do I configure HTTPS on the Apache origin?
Install and test a certificate on Apache before selecting Cloudflare Full (strict). The origin must accept HTTPS on port 443 and present an unexpired certificate whose hostname matches the site name requested by Cloudflare.
Choose the certificate type
- Public CA certificate: trusted by browsers and suitable when users may ever connect directly to the origin, when Cloudflare is paused, or when DNS is temporarily set to DNS-only.
- Cloudflare Origin CA certificate: encrypts the Cloudflare-to-origin connection and works with Full (strict), but browsers are not expected to trust it for direct origin access when Cloudflare is bypassed.
Configure Apache’s TLS virtual host for the exact hostname, ensure port 443 is reachable through the server firewall and hosting provider, and verify the certificate chain and expiration. Do not enable strict mode until an HTTPS request to the origin succeeds with the matching certificate.
Why do redirect loops and mixed content appear?
A loop can occur when Cloudflare sends HTTPS to visitors but the origin or Joomla believes the request is HTTP and redirects it back to HTTPS repeatedly. Mixed content appears when Joomla-generated links still use HTTP after the site is intended to be HTTPS. Make the origin TLS configuration, Joomla’s canonical URL settings, and Cloudflare’s encryption mode agree before forcing redirects.
How do I connect Cloudflare DNS and proxying?
In Cloudflare DNS, proxy the records that serve the website, then leave non-web records in the status appropriate to their purpose. A proxied A, AAAA, or CNAME record sends HTTP and HTTPS requests through Cloudflare; a DNS-only record returns the origin address directly and does not receive Cloudflare’s HTTP proxy protections.
| Record use | Recommended treatment | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Website hostname serving HTTP/HTTPS | Proxied | Requests use Cloudflare’s edge and then connect to the Apache origin. |
| Email hostname and mail-related records | Configure according to the mail service; do not blindly proxy | Mail protocols and verification records are not ordinary web traffic. |
| Domain-verification records | Use the status required by the verifying service | Verification systems may expect direct DNS answers. |
After proxying the web record, set Cloudflare’s SSL/TLS mode to Full (strict). Cloudflare can return a 526 error when the origin certificate is missing, expired, untrusted for the selected mode, or issued for a different hostname.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Keep the origin certificate and Apache HTTPS listener working even if you later change DNS status. DNS-only web records expose the origin IP and bypass the HTTP proxy, so use that mode deliberately rather than as a permanent substitute for a correctly configured proxy.
How do I preserve the real visitor IP behind Cloudflare?
With a proxied request, Apache normally sees a Cloudflare address as the network peer. Cloudflare places the original visitor address in headers such as CF-Connecting-IP and X-Forwarded-For. If Joomla logs, access rules, geolocation, or rate limits depend on client IP, configure Apache’s real-IP handling to trust those headers only from Cloudflare’s published proxy ranges.
- Use the current Cloudflare IP range list as the trusted-proxy source and keep that list maintained.
- Configure Apache’s real-IP mechanism according to the Ubuntu and Apache versions you selected, mapping the chosen Cloudflare header to the client address.
- Ensure the rule applies only when the immediate peer is a trusted Cloudflare network. Never accept arbitrary forwarded headers directly from Internet clients.
- Generate a test request through the proxied hostname and inspect Apache access logs to confirm that the recorded client address is the visitor’s address while the connection peer remains Cloudflare.
- Base firewall allowlists and origin-protection rules on the maintained Cloudflare ranges, not on a single address copied once.
The exact Apache directives and test commands depend on the installed version and local configuration. A syntactically valid rule that trusts every proxy or every client can make IP-based security controls unreliable.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should I test after switching on Cloudflare?
Use the public hostname, not an origin-IP shortcut, for an end-to-end check. Test both the public site and the administrator area, then inspect the origin logs and browser security indicators.
Recommended Free Tools
- Joomla: the homepage renders, assets load, forms submit, and the administrator login succeeds over HTTPS.
- TLS: Cloudflare shows Full (strict), the origin certificate is unexpired and hostname-matched, and Apache is listening on port 443.
- DNS: the web A, AAAA, or CNAME record is proxied; mail and verification records retain their intended status.
- Redirects: HTTP-to-HTTPS behavior reaches one stable HTTPS URL without a loop.
- Content: browser developer tools show no HTTP mixed-content requests.
- Logs: Apache records the intended visitor IP after trusted-header restoration, and firewall events do not block Cloudflare edge addresses needed to reach the site.
| Symptom | Likely area | First check |
|---|---|---|
| Cloudflare 526 | Origin TLS | Certificate validity, hostname match, trust chain, and Apache port 443 listener. |
| Repeated HTTPS redirects | Proxy/origin scheme disagreement | Cloudflare mode, Apache redirects, and Joomla’s HTTPS or canonical URL settings. |
| Mixed-content warnings | Hard-coded HTTP URLs | Joomla configuration, template URLs, and extension-generated assets. |
| Every visitor appears to have a Cloudflare IP | Real-IP handling | Trusted proxy ranges and the selected Cloudflare header. |
| Installer reports a missing module | PHP SAPI or extension package | Modules loaded by Apache, not only by command-line PHP. |
Which security and maintenance checks matter after installation?
Keep the deployment maintainable rather than treating the first successful page load as completion.
- Remove installation archives, diagnostic scripts, and temporary files from any web-accessible directory.
- Use a separate Joomla administrator account for each person and protect administrator credentials with a password manager and multi-factor controls where available.
- Back up both the Joomla document root and the database, and periodically perform a restore test on a separate environment.
- Apply Ubuntu, Apache, PHP, database, Joomla, template, and extension updates on a planned schedule. Check Joomla’s PHP compatibility before changing the server’s PHP major or minor version.
- Monitor disk space, database growth, certificate expiration, Apache errors, and Cloudflare origin errors.
- Keep Cloudflare’s trusted IP ranges current if your firewall or real-IP configuration depends on them.
- Review writable directories after installing extensions; broad write permissions increase the impact of a compromised process.
When adding a Joomla extension, read its own PHP-module and resource requirements. An extension can introduce dependencies beyond Joomla core even when the base installation passes every check.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
What is the safest order for the whole deployment?
Following this order minimizes rework and makes each failure easier to isolate:
- Select an Ubuntu release and database whose versions meet Joomla 6’s requirements.
- Install Apache, compatible PHP, required modules, and the chosen database.
- Set the Apache PHP installation values and restart Apache.
- Create the least-privilege database and record its connection details.
- Unpack Joomla into the final document root and configure the Apache hostname.
- Run the browser installer and verify the site and administrator area on the origin.
- Install and test a matching origin certificate on port 443.
- Proxy the web DNS records in Cloudflare and choose Full (strict).
- Configure trusted Cloudflare visitor-IP restoration if logs or security rules need client addresses.
- Run public HTTPS tests, inspect logs, and resolve redirect, mixed-content, certificate, or permission errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Joomla extensions require more than the core PHP setup?
Yes. An extension, template, or backup component can require additional PHP modules, higher upload limits, or more memory than Joomla’s baseline. Check each extension’s compatibility notes before installation and test it on a staging copy when a server-level change is required.
Should I change PHP versions immediately when Joomla lists a newer recommendation?
Not without checking the Ubuntu repository, Joomla version, and installed extensions together. Schedule the change, back up the database and files, test the site with the target PHP version, and keep a rollback plan for the current package set.
Can I install Joomla using the server IP instead of its final hostname?
Use the final hostname whenever possible. The hostname is needed for a matching origin certificate, Cloudflare proxying, Joomla’s canonical URLs, and reliable redirect testing; an IP-based first install can leave configuration that must later be corrected.
What should I do if I need direct access while Cloudflare is bypassed?
Use a publicly trusted certificate on the origin if browsers must connect directly. A Cloudflare Origin CA certificate is intended for Cloudflare-to-origin encryption and may produce browser trust warnings when the proxy is disabled.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
