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Installing a Joomla Package (pkg)

This guide explains how to install an extension package (a component, module, plugin, template, or language pack) in Joomla using the built-in Extensions Manager.

Requirements

  • Administrator access to the Joomla back-end.
  • The extension package file, typically a .zip archive, saved to your computer.
  • Confirmation that the package is compatible with your Joomla version.

Steps

  1. Log in to the Joomla administrator panel. Go to https://yoursite.com/administrator and sign in with an account that has Super User or Administrator privileges.
  2. Open the Extensions Manager. From the top navigation menu, select System, then under Import click Install Extensions.
  3. Select the Upload Package File tab. This tab is selected by default. If not, click it to make sure you're using the file upload method.
  4. Choose the package file. Click Choose File (or Browse) and select the .zip file for the extension from your computer.
  5. Upload and install. Click Upload & Install. Joomla will upload the file, unpack it, and install the extension automatically.
  6. Confirm the installation. A success message will appear once installation completes, along with any post-installation notes provided by the extension developer. If an error appears instead, review the message for details (see Troubleshooting below).
  7. Enable and configure the extension. (Media Audit packages are designed to do this on installation, but you may enable/disable our extensions as desired.) Depending on the type of extension, navigate to the relevant manager to enable and configure it:
    • Components: Components menu
    • Modules: System > Manage > Modules
    • Plugins: System > Manage > Plugins
    • Templates: System > Manage > Templates

Install the Download ID Update Key

If you purchased an In Color extension (or completed registration for a free product), you will be provided with a Download ID update key. You can find this key on the Accounts page while logged in to https://incolor.dev.

In Media Audit's Options, paste this key into the Download ID field and click Save (or Save and Close). You can find the Options page from the Joomla Options area or by clicking the Options button in the upper-right corner of the Media Audit Dashboard.

Troubleshooting

  • "Unable to upload file" error: Check your server's PHP upload_max_filesize and post_max_size settings; increase them if the package exceeds the current limit.
  • "Unable to find install package" error: The zip file may be corrupted or not structured correctly. Re-download the package and try again.
  • Compatibility errors: Verify the extension supports your installed Joomla version before installing.
  • Directory permission errors: Confirm the Joomla tmp and destination directories are writable by the web server.

Notes

  • Always back up your site and database before installing new extensions.
  • Download packages only from trusted sources, such as the Joomla Extensions Directory (JED) or the official developer's site.
  • After installation, check for a Post-Installation Message in the Joomla admin panel, which may include setup instructions specific to that extension.