While the book is being written, the latest OpenX release is 2.8.3, and the system requirements are valid for this version. Previous versions may have the same or fewer requirements.
We must download and install OpenX Ad Server on our own or on a shared web hosting solution. OpenX system runs on an Apache web server running with Linux. We will also need PHP and one of the supported database servers: MySQL or PostgreSQL. MySQL is the preferred database server as it is easier to manage and work more efficiently with OpenX. Some users suggested running OpenX on a Windows server with a PHP-enabled mode, but as it is not officially supported by OpenX and open to errors, we suggest following an ideal LAMP solution (Linux, Apache, MySql, and PHP). The following table shows the requirements list for installing OpenX:
Linux |
Linux is essential and standard to work with OpenX Ad Server. Some other Unix-based systems can also run OpenX Ad Server but are not supported officially. |
Apache server |
An Apache server is required. The majority of modern web hosting solutions have the latest versions of Apache server, so it is not an issue. |
PHP |
As OpenX Ad Server is written in PHP language, it needs PHP installation. Although PHP version 5.2 or newer is recommended, 5.1.4 version or any greater version is also supported. |
PHP settings and parameters |
OpenX uses default PHP server settings, but as some server administrators change these settings, it is wise to check whether the following parameters are set before the installation process:
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MySQL |
It is the default OpenX Ad Server database. Although MySQL 5.0 is recommended,. MySQL 4.1 and greater versions are also supported |
SMTP Server |
Required for sending reports by e-mail. |