Learn how to create your own online store with PrestaShop in this complete, step-by-step guide.
Creating an online store is a great way to generate side income or start your own business. PrestaShop is a free, open-source ecommerce platform that enables you to easily create your own store.
To use PrestaShop, you will need web hosting, which will provide the server infrastructure and software you need to power your online store. In this guide, we explain how to set up your ecommerce store with PrestaShop, and provide important information to help you get started.
Before you begin creating your online retail empire, you should purchase hosting. We used Hostinger (opens in new tab) for this how-to guide, an industry-leading host that offers affordable, yet powerful hosting solutions. A powerful hosting subscription is a good idea if you plan to create a large online store.
Once your hosting plan is in place, install the PrestaShop software on your hosting server. If you’re using Hostinger, you have access to a simple, user-friendly Auto Installer that enables you to install PrestaShop (and numerous other scripts) with a click of your mouse.
You will find the Auto Installer tool in Hostinger’s hPanel control panel. Click through to it, search for PrestaShop, and follow the prompts to install it. You can manage your installation and access the PrestaShop dashboard easily from the Auto Installer.
Should you need more help, Hostinger has published a comprehensive guide to installing and setting up PrestaShop (opens in new tab).
First up, you should choose a theme for your store. You can start from scratch and design your own site from the ground up, but we recommend you begin with a theme from the PrestaShop Addons Marketplace.
