cPanel Migration Project

We’re working with website owners to find secure and better supported solutions for websites hosted on cPanel.

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Why we’re doing this

The University’s approved content management platforms are the New University Content Management System (CMS) and Google Sites. These have been developed with a focus on usability, accessibility and responsive design.

The University has many legacy websites hosted through the ‘cPanel’ service, which are suitable for migration to our approved platforms.

cPanel websites create security and reputational risks for the University if not maintained regularly and properly. By migrating the sites, we can manage that risk, improve maintainability and security for the University.

At the same time, it’s important we review the cPanel service so that we can continue to offer web hosting for the right reasons - for websites that are well-looked after, secure and help the University to deliver its key priorities.

We’re reviewing how cPanel is used and working with a range of stakeholders to find solutions to website needs. This will help to inform the future governance and direction taken to managing University-affiliated websites.

Where cPanel websites are no longer needed, or have not complied with the cPanel rules and responsibilities, accounts will be removed.

The benefits of migrating from cPanel to the University CMS

No hosting and domain costs
Technical maintenance, support and security compliance, provided by the University
Ongoing work to improve usability and accessibility
Easier to administrate, with a straightforward process for providing admin access to other University colleagues
Search engine optimisation. As the University website is a trusted source a site hosted here is more likely to be favoured by search engines over websites either hosted elsewhere, or without a secure SSL certificate
Training, guidance materials and tutorials covering all aspects of the CMS

Project support

We are providing full migration support to owners of existing cPanel websites. As a site owner you are required to assist us with content queries, and (for CMS migrations) complete an online CMS training course (this takes around three hours).

Meanwhile, we will do the content migration, make your new website live and then remove your cPanel account.

The project also offers an excellent opportunity to improve the quality of websites. Site owners will be supported by skilled digital content specialists who will advise on the best structure and format of content and optimal user experience.

What is cPanel for?

Due to the number of poorly maintained websites on cPanel, University procedures have now changed.

The cPanel service is only appropriate under very specific circumstances, when bespoke functionality is required that is not available in the CMS.

CMS features in development

Image gallery

This feature will provide functionality to display a number of images in a single component.

The image gallery will be available on Content types: Basic, Campaign, Course, Event, News story, Staff profile, Student profile.

Forms

We're currently exploring options for how website owners can use forms to collect data which is both secure and compliant with legislation. In the meantime we advise using and linking to a Google Form.

Project updates

May 2020

Logo feature released, allowing editors to add logos to pages in the CMS to acknowledge project or research collaboration and funding.
EPSRC and SFI Centre for Doctoral Training in Advanced Metallic Systems is the first site to go live with this feature.

April 2020

New page: Recommended web platforms, explaining the University’s different website options available to staff.

March 2020

cPanel information and guidance updated
cPanel registration process renewed. Applications now go through a TopDesk form and are assessed to ensure that that the information can’t be hosted elsewhere, and that applicants have agreed to keep the installation maintained.