Before setting up Cluddy Host, you need to prepare your VPS and domain. Please ensure you have reviewed the Requirements page before proceeding.Follow each step in order to ensure a smooth installation and connection process:
1. Purchase a domain and a VPS
You can choose any domain registrar and VPS provider that meets the requirements.
In your domain’s DNS settings, create an A record pointing to your VPS’s IPv4 address.
If an A record already exists, remove it before adding the new one.
💡 Important note: Detailed DNS configuration instructions are not provided here, as the web interface varies between providers. You can find step-by-step DNS setup guides on the websites of major cloud service providers.
Your domain name (without http, https, www and slashes)
Once submitted, you will receive:
AUTH_TOKEN — valid for 15 minutes
ZIP_PASSWORD
🚨 Note: If you miss the 15-minute window, you can request a new AUTH_TOKEN. However, once the license is activated, you will not be able to request another token. License activation binds your VPS to your current subscription.
3. Prepare VPS connection detailsIn your VPS provider’s web client:
1. Open the section with connection details.
2. Copy your VPS IP address and password.
3. Save them in a secure location (for example, a text file) so they are always accessible.
4. Connect to your VPSOpen a terminal and run:
ssh root@<your-vps-ip>
Enter the password you saved earlier.💡 Tip: When entering or pasting the password in the terminal, it will not be displayed — this is normal.
5. Set environment variablesInside the VPS terminal, set:
