What You’ll Learn
- Recommended hosting providers for MainWP
- Hosts that require additional configuration
- How to address shared hosting limitations
Recommended Hosts
These hosts offer WordPress-optimized environments that work well with MainWP:
Pressable - Managed WordPress hosting with MainWP-friendly configurations and strong performance for Dashboard sites.
GridPane - Server management panel for WordPress, giving you full control over PHP settings and server configuration.
Cloudways - Managed cloud hosting with easy access to PHP configuration, useful for enabling required functions.
General Compatibility
MainWP has no inherent size or speed limits. Performance depends on your server’s configuration and resources. A slow or underpowered server affects plugin performance just as it affects WordPress overall. Before choosing a host:- Review the MainWP System Requirements
- Confirm the host meets WordPress hosting requirements
- Check if the host allows required PHP functions (see Required PHP Functions)
Hosts Requiring Additional Configuration
Some hosting providers have security policies that require specific setup for MainWP to function properly:| Host | Configuration Needed | Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| WP Engine | Whitelist MainWP user agent for API access | Deleting plugins on WP Engine |
| Cloudways | Enable tmpfile() PHP function | Enable tmpfile on Cloudways |
| 20i | Whitelist MainWP Dashboard IP address | Resolving 20i connection issues |
Shared Hosting Considerations
Shared hosting environments sometimes limit PHP functions or maximum run time. If you experience issues:- Check if your host disables functions like
tmpfile(), cURL functions, orset_time_limit() - Request function access from hosting support (see Required PHP Functions)
- Consider enabling optimized data loading for Dashboards managing 30+ sites
Firewall and Security Plugins
Some hosts use web application firewalls (WAFs) that may block MainWP communication. If you have connection issues:- Check the connection troubleshooting guide
- Review the ports and user agent that MainWP uses
- Whitelist the MainWP user agent in your security rules
Self-Check Checklist
- Host meets MainWP system requirements
- Required PHP functions enabled
- No WAF blocking MainWP communication
- Adequate server resources for number of child sites
Related Resources
- System Requirements - Minimum requirements
- Required PHP Functions - Function reference
- Optimize for Shared Hosting - Performance tuning