Demo mode lets you convert any cPanel account into a demonstration account where users can explore the interface without making permanent changes. This feature is perfect for showcasing what clients will experience with their hosting account at OBHost, as the account appears fully functional while preventing actual file or folder modifications.
What Is Demo Mode?
Demo mode is a cPanel feature that restricts a user's ability to alter files and folders while maintaining the appearance of a fully operational account. When you enable demo mode on an account, visitors can click through the interface, test features, and explore options without causing any actual changes to the server.
This makes demo mode an excellent sales and training tool. You can show potential customers exactly what their control panel will look like, or train new users on cPanel features without worrying about accidental deletions or configuration changes.
Important Limitations
Demo mode works only with cPanel accounts. You cannot create demo WHM (Web Host Manager) accounts using this feature. If you need to demonstrate WHM functionality, you'll need to use a separate testing environment or provide guided tours instead.
How to Enable or Disable Demo Mode
Follow these steps to turn demo mode on or off for a specific cPanel account:
- From the Account Selection list, choose the domain or username of the account you want to convert to demo mode.
- Use the Account Search feature if you need to search for an account by domain name or username.
- Click Modify to access the demo mode settings.
- Click Enable to activate demo mode, or click Disable to turn it off and restore normal account functionality.
The account must already exist on your server before you can enable demo mode. If you need to create a new account specifically for demonstration purposes, use the Create a New Account interface in WHM first (navigate to WHM >> Home >> Account Functions >> Create a New Account).
Best Practices for Demo Accounts
When setting up demo accounts, create them with sample content that represents typical customer usage. Add a few sample websites, email accounts, and databases so prospects can see realistic examples. Update the content periodically to keep demonstrations fresh and relevant.
Remember to clearly label demo accounts in your internal documentation to avoid confusion. You might also want to set up automated scripts to reset demo account content regularly, ensuring each demonstration starts with clean, consistent data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I create a demo WHM account?
No, demo mode only works for cPanel accounts. WHM does not provide functionality to create demo WHM accounts. You'll need alternative methods to demonstrate WHM features to potential customers.
Will demo mode users know the account is restricted?
No, the account appears fully functional to users. They can interact with all features and see success messages, but their changes won't be saved permanently. This creates a realistic demonstration experience without risk to your server.
Can I enable demo mode on multiple accounts at once?
No, you must enable demo mode individually for each account. Select each account from the list and modify its settings separately to activate demo mode.
What happens to existing data when I enable demo mode?
Existing files, databases, and configurations remain intact when you enable demo mode. The feature only prevents new changes from being saved. When you disable demo mode, the account returns to normal operation with all original data preserved.
Our support team is available 24/7 to help you set up demo accounts or answer questions about cPanel features. Visit our contact page or email us at support@obhost.org for assistance.
