Ready to self-host your own BeDesk instance? Great! To ensure a smooth, secure, and speedy experience for both your agents and customers, your server environment needs to meet a few key requirements.
This guide outlines the minimum specifications needed to run BeDesk. Don't worry if you're not a server expert! Our installer includes a built-in checker that automatically verifies your configuration before the installation begins.
These are the essential software components and extensions BeDesk needs to function correctly.
PHP Version 8.2 or higher
BeDesk is built on PHP, a popular programming language for the web. Using an up-to-date version PHP 8.2+ is crucial for better performance, security, and stability.
Database: MySQL 8.0+ or MariaDB 10.6+
The database is the heart of your helpdesk—it's where all your tickets, user accounts, knowledge base articles, and settings are stored. BeDesk supports both MySQL and its popular open-source alternative, MariaDB.
Required PHP Extensions
Extensions are like add-ons for PHP that enable specific functions. BeDesk requires the following to be enabled:
PDO (PHP Data Objects): This is non-negotiable. It provides a secure and consistent way for BeDesk to communicate with your database.
Fileinfo: This extension allows BeDesk to safely inspect file uploads (like ticket attachments) to determine their correct type, preventing security risks.
These extensions are standard and should be enabled by default on majority of hosting providers.
Not sure if your hosting plan cuts it? Here are two easy ways to find out:
Run the BeDesk Installer
The simplest method! The first step of our installation process is a pre-flight check. It automatically scans your server environment and gives you a clear report, highlighting any missing requirements.
Contact Your Hosting Provider
Simply send this article or the list of requirements to your web host's support team. They can instantly tell you if your current plan is compatible or help you upgrade if needed.