How to Install Yii Framework on Ubuntu Using Apache

Yii is a modern, high-performance PHP framework that makes developing web applications faster and more secure. With its elegant MVC architecture, built-in tools, and extensive features, Yii is a popular choice for both small and large projects. In this guide, we’ll walk you through How to install Yii Framework on Ubuntu and running it with Apache in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Update Your System

Before starting, make sure your system packages are up to date.

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Install Apache, PHP, and Required Extensions

Yii requires PHP 7.4 or later along with some common extensions.

sudo apt install apache2 php php-cli php-mbstring php-xml php-curl php-zip php-intl unzip -y

Enable Apache’s rewrite module:

sudo a2enmod rewrite
sudo systemctl enable apache2
sudo systemctl restart apache2

Step 3: Install Composer

Composer is the PHP dependency manager that handles Yii installation.

Check installation:

composer --version

Step 4: Create a New Yii Project

Move to your web root and create a new Yii application using Composer.

cd /var/www/html
composer create-project --prefer-dist yiisoft/yii2-app-basic yiitest

Step 5: Configure Apache for Yii

Create a new Apache configuration file:

sudo nano /etc/apache2/sites-available/yiitest.conf

Add the following configuration:

<VirtualHost *:80>
    ServerName yourdomain.com
    DocumentRoot /var/www/html/yiitest/web
<Directory /var/www/html/yiitest/web>
        AllowOverride All
        Require all granted
    </Directory>

    ErrorLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/yiitest-error.log
    CustomLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/yiitest-access.log combined
</VirtualHost>

Enable the new site and restart Apache:

sudo a2ensite yiitest.conf
sudo systemctl reload apache2

Note: You can secure your Yii application using a free SSL certificate if you want.

Step 6: Verify Installation

Open your browser and go to:

http://yourdomain.com

You should see the Yii welcome page as shown below, confirming that your installation is successful.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully installed the Yii Framework on Ubuntu using Apache! Your server is now ready for developing fast, secure, and scalable PHP applications. From here, you can start building custom modules, explore Yii’s powerful features, and deploy production-ready web applications with confidence.

If you face any issues while you install Yii Framework on Ubuntu or need help configuring your Apache server for optimal performance, our team is here to help. We specialize in Server Management services, including framework setup, web server optimization, and complete Linux server administration. Contact our 24/7 technical experts to ensure your Yii framework runs smoothly and securely on your Ubuntu environment.