If you’re running WHM/cPanel on your VPS, you’re already using one of the most widely adopted web hosting control panels. But to get the most out of your server, you’ll want to install a some essential tools. In this article, we’ll present some of the best opensource WHM cPanel add-ons that can improve your server’s security, monitoring, and overall performance.
New to cPanel? You can learn how to get started with our guide on How to install cPanel/WHM on your server.
1. ConfigServer Security & Firewall (CSF)
One of the most essential opensource add-ons for WHM/cPanel is ConfigServer Security & Firewall (CSF). This tool provides advanced firewall protection, login detection, and alerts for suspicious activity, all accessible directly from your WHM interface.
Benefits:
- Real-time monitoring of potential threats;
- Easy management of firewall rules via GUI;
- Brute-force detection and alert system.
How to install CSF:
SSH into your server as root and enter the following:
cd /usr/src
rm -fv csf.tgz
wget https://download.configserver.com/csf.tgz
tar -xzf csf.tgz
cd csf
sh install.shCheck for iptables support:
perl /usr/local/csf/bin/csftest.plAccess CSF in WHM via: Home > Plugins > ConfigServer Security & Firewall
We recommend reviewing the official documentation for optimal setup and best practices.
2. ConfigServer ModSecurity control
Another excellent addition to your opensource WHM cPanel add-ons toolkit is ConfigServer ModSecurity control. ModSecurity is a web application firewall (WAF) that helps stop attacks before they reach your site. With this plugin, you gain enhanced control over how ModSecurity operates for different users or sites on your server.
Highlights:
- Built on OWASP ModSecurity Core Rule Set;
- Rule customization per domain or globally;
- Easy toggle on/off features inside WHM.
To install, follow the instructions on the ConfigServer ModSecurity page.
3. Munin for cPanel
Munin is a fantastic server resource monitoring tool that’s fully compatible with WHM. It visualizes system metrics like CPU load, memory usage, and disk activity, helping you troubleshoot performance issues and plan for growth.
Why use Munin?
- Visual graphs of resource usage over time;
- Quick insights into performance bottlenecks;
- Simple, one-click install via WHM.
Installation steps:
- Log in to WHM;
- Go to: WHM > Manage Plugins;
- Locate “Munin for cPanel”;
- Click “Install Munin for cPanel”.
After installation, charts will be available inside your WHM interface to help you track and optimize server performance.
Improving WHM/cPanel with add-ons
WHM/cPanel is a powerful control panel on its own, but by installing opensource WHM cPanel add-ons, you will improve its functionality. Whether you’re focused on tightening server security, managing firewall rules, or monitoring performance, these tools are reliable and free.
Start with ConfigServer Security & Firewall, explore the flexibility of ModSecurity Control, and keep an eye on performance with Munin.
