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I am looking for an expert System Administrator with deep knowledge of CloudLinux 7, cPanel/WHM, and LiteSpeed to resolve a critical web server failure and bring our server and websites back online. Background & Actions Taken: Our server was recently compromised due to the global cPanel Authentication Bypass vulnerability (affecting versions after 11.40). We successfully applied the security patch via a forced cPanel update. The server is now secured and running version 11.130.0.19. We bypassed the hacker's locks (chattr -i) and successfully restored around 100 cPanel accounts from clean backups (dated April 29) using the restorepkg script. Databases were restored successfully after temporarily disabling the MySQL strict password validation component. The Current Problem: Although the accounts are restored and the server is secured, the web server is completely down, and all websites are returning a refused to connect error in the browser. The server was originally running LiteSpeed. Following the forced cPanel update, both Apache and LiteSpeed crashed. The apache_php_fpm service is failing to start. When attempting to switch to and start LiteSpeed, we receive the following error: Job for [login to view URL] failed because the control process exited with error code. See "systemctl status [login to view URL]" and "journalctl -xe" for details. We have already attempted to clear the /tmp/lshttpd/ directory and run the LiteSpeed auto-fix script (/usr/local/lsws/admin/misc/[login to view URL] -f), but the service still refuses to start. Scope of Work (What you need to do): Access the server via Root SSH/WHM. Troubleshoot and fix the LiteSpeed web server issue so it boots up successfully (or fix Apache/PHP-FPM as a fallback if LiteSpeed requires license syncing/reinstallation). Ensure all restored websites are fully operational, accessible via the browser, and loading properly without connection or permission errors. Conduct a quick check to ensure no lingering hacker remnants (e.g., immutable files) are blocking the web server services. Required Skills: Advanced experience with CentOS / CloudLinux 7. Deep expertise in cPanel/WHM architecture and LiteSpeed Web Server. Strong troubleshooting skills with systemd, Apache, and PHP-FPM logs.
Project ID: 40409622
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79 freelancers are bidding on average $133 USD for this job

Hello I can help you right now Write me without obligations
$100 USD in 1 day
7.8
7.8

Hello. I would like to help you with system fix Cpanel server after recovery and optimization apache/memory/php/mysql issue. I have experience. Please read my feedbacks. Thank you.
$40 USD in 1 day
8.0
8.0

I can help with this, I will get LiteSpeed back online — diagnosing the lshttpd service failure, checking for broken PHP handlers after the forced cPanel update, and ensuring all 100 restored accounts serve traffic again. If LiteSpeed needs a license resync or reinstall, I will fall back to Apache/PHP-FPM immediately so sites are not down while that resolves. One likely culprit: the cPanel update may have overwritten the LiteSpeed vhost conf mappings, leaving PHP handlers pointing to nonexistent paths. Questions: 1) Is the LiteSpeed license active and valid for this server? 2) Do you have SSH root access ready to share via secure channel? Looking forward to talking through the details. Kamran
$90 USD in 5 days
7.8
7.8

With over a decade of experience as an Azure Solutions Architect and DevOps Engineer, I'm no stranger to resolving complex infrastructure issues. I've worked extensively with CentOS/CloudLinux 7, cPanel/WHM, and LiteSpeed Web Server—exactly what you need for your project. As an architect, I have a deep understanding of not just the components involved but also how they interact with each other, which is crucial for troubleshooting and fixing diverse systems configurations. My strong background in troubleshooting systemd, Apache, and PHP-FPM logs will enable me to rapidly pinpoint the root cause of your web server failure. Once identified, I know how to apply precise solutions to get everything back online smoothly. No stone will be left unturned—I will ensure there are no lingering hacker remnants like immutable files blocking the web server services. Moreover, my experience doesn't stop at resolving issues but extends to designing future-ready systems. By leveraging my skills in Terraform, ARM templates and scripting languages like Bash and Python, I can help improve the overall resilience and security of your infrastructure. Choose me for a fast turnaround that doesn't compromise on durability.
$250 USD in 3 days
7.6
7.6

As a veteran System Administrator with extensive knowledge in CentOS and CloudLinux 7, I have dealt with numerous server failures during my career. My proficiency in cPanel/WHM architecture and LiteSpeed Web Server aligns perfectly with your project requirements. I understand the crucial nature of this issue and am committed to restoring your web server and getting all your websites up and running. One of my key strengths is my adeptness in troubleshooting complex server problems. My experience in interpreting and working with Apache, PHP-FPM and systemd logs will be indispensable in diagnosing the root cause of the LiteSpeed web server failure. Additionally, I possess comprehensive skills in dealing with MySQL databases, which will help ensure all your restored websites are functioning optimally without any connection or permission errors. Understanding the gravity of the recent security compromise, I promise to not only restore but also meticulously ensure there are no remnants or backdoors exposed to hackers that could potentially jeopardize your system. Time is of the essence here, and you can rely on my quick and efficient resolution abilities to get your server back online without delay. Look no further for a skilled professional tailored for this task - choose me as your dedicated problem solver.
$80 USD in 1 day
7.6
7.6

Hi, I am working with cPanel on a daily basis for the past 10 years and can assist you with getting you back online. Although a server once root compromised will always be a security risk and a full migration is necessary to another server in order to resolve any future security issues. Let me know if interested THanks
$140 USD in 7 days
7.0
7.0

As an experienced System Administrator proficient in CloudLinux 7, cPanel/WHM, and LiteSpeed, I am the ideal candidate to address the critical web server failure. With a proven track record in web development and server management, I will swiftly troubleshoot and resolve the issues causing the refusal to connect error. My expertise in Node.js, React, and Excel automation ensures a comprehensive solution. Rest assured, I will restore all websites to full functionality while safeguarding against potential hacker remnants. Entrust your server to me, and I will have it up and running in no time.
$107 USD in 7 days
6.7
6.7

Hello Sir, I think you should not do much more experiment while hosting so many websites on same server. You should avoid this. Sometimes so much cleverness destroy the server. May I know what error it is showing? I am ready to fix. Thanks
$140 USD in 2 days
6.7
6.7

Hello! I see you need a pro system admin to recover your web server on CloudLinux 7 with cPanel/WHM and LiteSpeed, which requires precise handling to avoid downtime or data loss. Many underestimate the nuances of CloudLinux kernel features and LiteSpeed config conflicts during recovery, which can cause bigger issues if mishandled. Our team has 10+ years mastering server environments and web stacks, ensuring smooth recoveries and optimal setups. You can check samples from our work at https://www.freelancer.com/u/eliaa. Let's discuss your server issues so we can start restoring your system seamlessly today!
$250 USD in 7 days
6.5
6.5

Hello, I can help you recover and stabilize your CloudLinux 7 + cPanel/WHM server with LiteSpeed after a security incident and failed service restart. I have strong experience in emergency server recovery, especially with broken web stacks after cPanel updates, LiteSpeed crashes, and compromised environments. I will start with a full root-level diagnosis of systemd, Apache/PHP-FPM, and LiteSpeed logs to identify the exact failure chain (service dependencies, license issues, corrupted configs, or socket conflicts). Then I will restore a stable web stack—either repairing LiteSpeed or safely falling back to Apache + PHP-FPM if needed—while ensuring all cPanel accounts load correctly and websites become accessible again. I will also verify restored backups, check file integrity (including immutable flags and malware remnants), and ensure no hidden restrictions are blocking services. Final steps will include service hardening checks and ensuring consistent startup behavior after reboot. Thanks, Asif.
$250 USD in 3 days
6.4
6.4

With over a decade of experience under my belt working with systems like Linux, cPanel/WHM, and specifically LiteSpeed...including advanced troubleshooting skills which encompass even complex log file problems. I’m confident I can resolve the issue plaguing your web server. When it comes to servers and recovering them from critical failures and web server issues, I’m your go-to professional. I understand the importance of maintaining your system's security - a reason why my team and I stay fully updated with vulnerabilities and security patches. As you mentioned, you've already applied the necessary patch but now the web server is refusing to start. Rest assured, I will get your web server running smoothly again as quickly as possible. My journey with SoftwareLinkers has been defined by client satisfaction, evident in my high retention rate. We strive to work not just as contractors but as dedicated partners in our clients' technical journeys. Let me get startedon recovering your server!
$150 USD in 4 days
6.3
6.3

Hi, I’m a Linux system administrator with **6 years of related experience** working on CloudLinux, cPanel/WHM, and LiteSpeed environments, handling post-incident recovery, service failures, and restoring web server functionality after crashes or security events. ✅ A quick question: what error message appears in `journalctl -xe` or `systemctl status lshttpd` when LiteSpeed fails to start? Best regards, Amita
$99 USD in 1 day
5.7
5.7

** THIS IS NOT AN AUTOMATIC BID ** Hello, the error you have specified appears to be a Litespeed web server and apache binding issue, which means due to the forced update that went ahead, the bind setup for caching and reindexing has been disrupted, I will need to conduct log checks and then subsequently flush these bindings to reset in order to allow for your websites to start working again as expected, the cost of this project will be fixed at 99.99 USD and take 1-2 hours to complete, please drop me a message to get started, Thank you!
$99.99 USD in 1 day
5.4
5.4

Hello, I can help bring your CloudLinux server back online by digging into the LiteSpeed and Apache service failures and cleaning any remnants left from the cPanel compromise. I’ve handled similar recovery cases where services crash after forced updates and restored both LiteSpeed and fallback Apache/PHP-FPM stacks. I’ll work through the logs directly on your server, fix the web server boot issues, and make sure all restored sites load normally while ensuring nothing malicious is left behind. Thanks, Teo
$200 USD in 2 days
5.5
5.5

Hi, I have strong experience managing CloudLinux/cPanel servers with LiteSpeed and Apache stacks, including post-compromise recovery, service restoration, and deep troubleshooting of systemd, PHP-FPM, and web server failures. For this project, I will diagnose and restore your web stack by fixing LiteSpeed or stabilizing Apache/PHP-FPM as fallback, resolving service startup errors, validating configs, and ensuring all restored sites are fully accessible and running clean. You can expect fast response, clear communication, and a stable recovery with proper checks to eliminate any leftover issues from the compromise. Best regards, Juan
$140 USD in 1 day
5.6
5.6

Hello Dear! Greetings from Toriqul Global Solutions! We are pleased to introduce our company as a reliable and experienced provider of Web Design & Development services. Founded and led by Engineer Toriqul Islam, a B.Sc. graduate in Computer Science & Engineering from Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology (RUET), our team brings over 10 years of industry experience. At Toriqul Global Solutions, we specialize in building modern, user-friendly, and high-performance websites that help businesses grow and stand out in the digital world. Our design approach focuses on simplicity, elegance, and functionality to ensure maximum user engagement. Technologies We Use: Custom Websites Development Using ======>Full Stack Development. 1. HTML5 2. CSS3 3. Bootstrap4 4. jQuery 5. JavaScript 6. Angular JS 7. React JS 8. Node JS 9. WordPress 10. PHP 11. Ruby on Rails 12. MYSQL 13. Laravel 14. .Net 15. CodeIgniter 16. React Native 17. SQL / MySQL 18. Mobile app development 19. Python 20. MongoDB What you'll get? • Fully Responsive Website on All Devices • Reusable Components • Quick response • Clean, tested and documented code • Completely met deadlines and requirements • Clear communication We would be honored to discuss your project requirements and help bring your ideas to life. Thank you for your time and consideration. Warm Regards, Toriqul Global Solutions
$90 USD in 4 days
5.2
5.2

Hello, I have worked on Linux/Windows + Apache/Nginx/IIS + PHP/Perl/Python + MySQL/PostgreSQL. I also have 15+ years experience working with wHM/cPanel, Plesk, VirtualMin/UserMin, DirectAdmin as well as other custom built control panels. I'v built dedicated servers, hosting/Cloud/VPS servers, web, database, mail servers, proxy servers, voip/calling/FreePBX servers, OpenVPN servers. I have built, managed VMWare, HyperV, etc etc based virtual DataCenter(s). I have installed, customized, moved/migrated, secured, troubleshooted, cleaned-up hundreds of websites for US, Canada, Europe based clients. I'm asking for extended time owing to the fact that number of accounts to look for is around or upwards of 100 on this setup. ==================================================================== I live in Pakistan, in UTC/GMT + 5 timezone. I have broadband Internet over Fiber (FTTH) and am available via email, IM (MS Teams, Google Chat or any other you are comfortable with). ==================================================================== I provide; (1) 15 days money back guarantee on all services rendered (2) 15 days additional support, so you can check all is according to your requirement(s) Let me earn your trust and confidence Best Regards, M. Istehbab
$150 USD in 14 days
5.2
5.2

hello! hoping you are fine. im an expert with +8 years of experience in cloudlinux, cpanel and litespeed. i've recovered compromised servers, fixed immutable file locks and repaired broken litespeed and apache services before, so i can get your websites back online fast. do you have the root ssh credentials ready so i can check the logs immediately? contact me, i will reply right now!
$140 USD in 2 days
4.6
4.6

With your server's critical state, I know just how to provide the immediate and impactful solution you need. My name is Mahad Sheikh, a seasoned web and software developer specializing in Apache, MySQL, as well as the exact technologies your project demands, including CloudLinux 7, cPanel/WHM, LiteSpeed. My experience has equipped me with an advanced understanding of CentOS / CloudLinux 7 and a deep expertise in cPanel/WHM architecture and LiteSpeed Web Server. Not only am I skilled in giving swift resolutions to compromised servers given my extensive database management background but my knowledge of issues such as the one you've faced with 'refusal to connect' errors aligns perfectly with your project's scope. Lastly, I assure you that beyond recovering your damaged server and making it safe for use again, I can quickly identify any lingering hacker remnants - ensuring that your restoration journey truly leaves no room for exploiters. So as you look to get back the peace-of-mind you deserve from a secure web server environment serving fluidly restored websites, let's connect. I'm ready to lend my skills to get your web server back up and running smoothly; your business matters.
$150 USD in 5 days
4.0
4.0

CloudLinux 7 went EOL late 2024, so if this broke after a recent update, a kernel module mismatch or CageFS hook is the first thing I'd check. Console access before any service restart. With cPanel and LiteSpeed together, status flags mislead when one masks the other. Pull all three logs (cPanel, LiteSpeed, MySQL) first, then read the actual error. Before touching anything live, snapshot /var/cpanel, /etc, my.cnf. Services come back staged: MySQL, then LiteSpeed, then cPanel. That tells you which one was actually broken. M1 ($71, 1d): log audit, root cause confirmed. M2 ($72, 1d): fix blocker, restore services. M3 ($72, 1d): patch, harden, one-page runbook so this doesn't repeat. What's the current symptom, and do you have KVM or rescue mode?
$215 USD in 3 days
3.9
3.9

madinah, Saudi Arabia
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