Install Discourse in production with the official, supported instructions

This document provides an overview and guidance for installing Discourse using the official, supported installation method. This method ensures stability and compatibility, whether you’re hosting on bare metal or in the cloud. Following the official instructions will maximize the chances of your installation running smoothly.

Opting for the official installation method ensures that your Discourse installation aligns with supported configurations. Using an unsupported method increases the likelihood of encountering technical issues that may not receive assistance from the community or official channels.

The official approach utilizes a Docker-based installation process for ease of deployment and management. Docker containers help to standardize environments and simplify the process of installing and updating Discourse.

Follow the official Discourse installation guide on GitHub. Here’s a snapshot of what the installation typically involves:

Prepare your server:

Minimum requirements: A 64-bit Linux server with at least 1 GB of RAM and a dual-core processor (2 GB RAM is recommended for production).

Supported OS: Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or higher.

A root account or sudo user is required.

Install prerequisites by setting up the necessary tools and dependencies needed for Docker and Discourse.

Clone the official Discourse Docker repository on your server.

Configure Discourse by editing the app.yml file. This includes settings like:

Email configuration (SMTP server details are mandatory for the installation to succeed).

Domain name.

Run the installation commands provided in the guide to set up and start your Discourse instance.

Access Discourse via your browser once the installation process completes, and finalize the setup via the web interface.

For a more detailed step-by-step process, use the official guide.

Use the recommended operating system: Discourse is officially supported on Ubuntu 22.04 or higher. Other environments may work but are not officially documented or recommended.

Follow strict email configuration guidelines: Discourse relies heavily on email for account creation and other notifications. Ensure your email setup is correct to avoid issues.

Allocate sufficient memory: Under-resourced servers can cause installation or runtime problems. A minimum of 2 GB of RAM is preferred for seamless operation.

Stay updated: Always ensure your Discourse instance and its dependencies are up-to-date to access the latest features and security patches.

Q1: Can I install Discourse on shared hosting?
A: Discourse requires a dedicated environment, such as a virtual private server (VPS) or a cloud instance, to work properly. Shared hosting typically does not meet these requirements.

Q2: What happens if I use an unsupported installation method?
A: You may experience compatibility issues and are less likely to receive help on Meta or from the broader community.

Q3: What if installation feels complex or intimidating?
A: You can explore hosted options provided by Discourse, with managed services starting with a 14-day free trial. Visit Discourse Pricing for details.

Last edited by @MarkDoerr 2025-03-14T23:53:28Z