How to Set Up a LAMP Stack on AWS EC2 (Step-by-Step Guide)
A LAMP stack is one of the most widely used setups for hosting dynamic websites.
LAMP stands for:
- Linux
- Apache
- MySQL
- PHP
In this complete guide, you will learn how to set up a LAMP stack on AWS EC2 step-by-step, including optimization and security best practices.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- AWS account
- EC2 instance (Ubuntu recommended)
- SSH access
- Basic Linux knowledge
Step 1: Launch EC2 Instance
- Choose Ubuntu AMI
- Select instance type (t2.micro for beginners)
- Configure security group (allow HTTP, HTTPS, SSH)
Step 2: Connect to EC2 via SSH
ssh -i key.pem ubuntu@your-public-ip
Step 3: Update System
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y
Step 4: Install Apache Web Server
sudo apt install apache2 -y
Test:
Open http://your-ip
Step 5: Install MySQL
sudo apt install mysql-server -y
sudo mysql_secure_installation
Step 6: Install PHP
sudo apt install php libapache2-mod-php php-mysql -y
Step 7: Test PHP Setup
sudo nano /var/www/html/info.php
Add:
<?php phpinfo(); ?>
Open in browser:
http://your-ip/info.php
Step 8: Configure Apache Virtual Host
Create config file:
sudo nano /etc/apache2/sites-available/yourdomain.conf
Step 9: Enable Site
sudo a2ensite yourdomain.conf
sudo systemctl reload apache2
Security Best Practices
- Disable root login
- Use firewall (ufw)
- Keep system updated
Performance Optimization
- Enable caching
- Use CDN
- Optimize Apache settings
Common Issues
- Apache not starting
- PHP not working
- Permission errors
Pro Tips
- Use Elastic IP
- Set up SSL using Let’s Encrypt
- Use monitoring tools
FAQs
Is LAMP still relevant?
Yes, widely used for WordPress and PHP apps.
Can I use Nginx instead?
Yes (LEMP stack)
Conclusion
You have successfully set up a LAMP stack on AWS EC2. With proper configuration, your server is ready for production use.