Cantech Knowledge Base

Your Go-To Hosting Resource

How to Enable IonCube Loader in Plesk?

Using applications or websites that are based on PHP? Here comes the IonCube Loader into the role. Basically, IonCube Loader can be referred to as a PHP extension that is developed to read and execute PHP files that can be encrypted effortlessly. However, installing IonCube Loader is a prerequisite to running your PHP applications effectively.

Here, in this guide, we will walk you through how to enable the IonCube Loader in Plesk!

Steps to Enable IonCube Loader in Plesk

Here is the list of a few simple steps that need to be carried out to enable the IonCube Loader in Plesk!

Step 1:
Navigate to the Plesk admin panel. Enter the required credentials to log in to the Plesk dashboard.

Step 2:
Move to the Tools & Settings options from the navigation menu.

Step 3:
Then, go to the General Settings section and click on PHP settings.

General Settings section and click on PHP settings

Here, in the PHP settings section, you can view a list of all the PHP versions. Additionally, also ensure that IonCube Loader is available with all Plesk PHP packages from 12.5.

Hence, you can enable the extensions for lesser versions.

Step 4:
The next step is to click on any version less than 12.5; for instance, let’s say 5.6.40 FastCGI application.

Step 5:
Now, open the extensions tab and here you will find the list of all extensions.

Step 6:
Check mark the box with the IonCube Loader option and then click the “Ok” button.

IonCube Loader option and then click the “Ok” button

That’s it!

As a result, all the necessary changes will be saved and enable the IonCube Loader.

Final Thoughts

Enabling IonCube Loader in Plesk is simple and straightforward. Basically, it is available in the extensions menu and can be done easily by following a few simple steps mentioned earlier. Additionally, check the PHP versions and follow security measures while making any server changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you require using the IonCube Loader?
IonCube Loader is required and utilized by PHP-based websites or applications, thus protecting their source code. It can be termed as a PHP extension that allows your server to run PHP files that require to be encrypted.

Is it required to have an IonCube Loader for every PHP version installed on my server?
Yes, you are required to have an IonCube Loader installed for every PHP version separately.

When do you require to update the IonCube Loader?
IonCube Loader requires an update on the upgrade of the new PHP version. Additionally, it requires update on a release of security or compatibility update by IonCube Loader.

June 21, 2025