How to Install PrestaShop on Google Cloud Server
Installing PrestaShop on a Google Cloud server lets you create your own online shop.
PrestaShop is free software that helps you build and run an online store, using tools like PHP and MySQL databases.
This guide shows you how to install PrestaShop version 8.1.x or newer on a Google Cloud server that already has Ubuntu, Apache or Nginx, PHP, and a database set up.
Once installed, you can use PrestaShop’s many free designs and add-ons to start selling your products online quickly.
Connect to your Google Cloud server via SSH. Download the PrestaShop files and upload them to your web server directory. Then, access your server’s IP or hostname in your browser to complete the setup.
How to connect to Google Cloud servers
Connecting to your Google Cloud Server
You can connect to your Google Cloud server easily using SSH, directly from your web browser via the Google Cloud Console. This makes accessing your server convenient and works with popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
SSH from the browser supports the following:
- Web browsers
- The latest version of Google Chrome
- Firefox
- Microsoft Edge
- Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 and later
- Safari 8 and later. Note that Safari is not supported in private browser mode.
- Virtual machine configurations
- All Linux VM images are natively available in Google Cloud.
Google Cloud provides all Linux VM images directly, eliminating the need for extra software or browser extensions. Log into your Google Cloud Console and navigate to Menu > Compute Engine > VM instances. You’ll see a list of your virtual machine instances. Click the ‘SSH’ button next to the desired instance to connect.

Alternatively, click the instance name and select SSH from its details page.
An SSH terminal window then connects you to the Ubuntu Linux instance, enabling you to run commands directly on the server. This secure connection is the initial step for installing PrestaShop.
You should now be ready to run commands in Ubuntu Linux on your Google Cloud server.

Install PrestaShop on Google Cloud Servers
Installing PrestaShop on Google Cloud servers follows a path similar to setting it up on other Linux computers. Once all the necessary software is installed, including the web server and database, you can finish setting up PrestaShop by visiting your server’s IP address in a web browser.
Installing PrestaShop on Ubuntu Linux involves specific steps when using Apache or Nginx web servers. This guide explains how you can complete the PrestaShop installation and management on Ubuntu Linux.
How to install PrestaShop on Ubuntu Linux with Apache
How to install PrestaShop on Ubuntu Linux with Nginx
Each link above will show you all the steps we performed in our previous posts to get here. You also will learn how to secure your PrestaShop website with free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates.
Following the links above and performing all the steps, you can create an online store using PrestaShop.
Conclusion:
Installing PrestaShop on Google Cloud servers running Ubuntu Linux empowers you to create a dynamic and efficient eCommerce store. Here are the key takeaways:
- PrestaShop is an open-source platform offering a broad range of features essential for online retail.
- The setup process involves connecting to your Google Cloud server using SSH and installing all necessary packages.
- Comprehensive guides are available for each step of the installation process, ensuring a smooth setup.
- Utilizing free templates and plugins enhances the design and functionality of your store.
- Securing your site with Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates is vital for protecting customer information and improving SEO.
- Continual support and community resources are available to assist you in managing and optimizing your PrestaShop store.
With these insights, you are well-equipped to embark on your eCommerce journey with PrestaShop!
Is PrestaShop completely free?
PrestaShop is an open-source solution available under the Open Software License (OSL). This means you can download the platform for free, install it on your own hosting, and freely modify the code. The platform offers several product versions: PrestaShop Classic – free version for self-installation, giving full control.
Can I host my website on Google Cloud for free?
Use our free trial to start hosting your website or web app with any Google Cloud product. Watch an overview on how to build and host a website on Google Cloud. Learn how to serve or migrate a website or choose an option in our technical article.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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