If you need to install a CGI-Script other than the ones SimpleHost provides for you, you will need to know some basic information about the SimpleHost Server in order to upload and install your script correctly. This tutorial will provide you with all the necessary information you will need to make your script work.

Step 1

Find or write the script that you require. If you wanted to learn how to write your own CGI-Script in Perl (which is a common programming language that most CGI-Scripts are written in) you will need to research how to program in Perl. SimpleHost does not provide any support on how to write a CGI-Script in Perl. But, there are web sites on the Internet that do provide pre-written scripts that you can download for free or for a small amount. You only need to find the Perl Script that best describes what you are looking to accomplish and install it. SimpleHost recommends you try:

CGI-Resources.com and/or Hot Scripts.com

Both web sites have tons of great scripts that might come in handy for your web pages.

Step 2

Once you find the script you are looking for, you will need to read the instructions. Every script is different, so you will need to read the instructions that come along with each script. The instructions will tell you what format to upload certain files, what files should have what permissions and how you should install the script step-by-step.

Step 3

After your done reading the instructions, it's time to start editing the script. The script will/may require you to edit certain locations or paths on the server so that your script will work/run correctly. Here is a list of important paths you may be asked to define in your script:

- Server Path to CGI-BIN: /home/"USERNAME"/cgi-bin/

- Server Path to WWW folder: /home/"USERNAME"/www/

- Location of Perl: /usr/bin/perl

- Location of Send Mail: /usr/sbin/sendmail

Where "USERNAME" will be replaced with your actual username. If you forgot, the username can be found in your setup letter.

Step 4

When you have completed editing the script, you will need to upload it. ALL CGI-Scripts need to be uploaded to the cgi-bin folder. Make sure you follow the instructions that came with the script when uploading. Usually, there is important information about how you should upload. ALL CGI-Scripts will be uploaded in ASCII mode.

Step 5

Once the CGI-Script has been uploaded, you will need to set the correct permissions for these files. You will find the correct permission settings for the script in the instructions. You can change permissions to your script with your FTP client.

Step 6

Run your script!