We have decided to gradually eliminate our reliance on FastPanel, other server management panels, and specific hosting providers by the end of 2026.
iEXExchanger will switch to a new installation and maintenance model, enabling deployment on almost any compatible Linux server.
Why we made this decision
FastPanel remains a convenient and straightforward control panel that has greatly simplified server installation and management. However, its development pace has noticeably slowed: the last release published in the official changelog is dated December 25, 2025.
Currently, FastPanel supports Debian only up to version 12, as well as several versions of Ubuntu, AlmaLinux, and Rocky Linux. Debian 13 is not yet supported.
Debian 12 has now moved from main support into long-term support (LTS) mode. Security updates will continue to be released until June 30, 2028. However, for new projects, we prefer to use more current operating system versions rather than wait for third-party panels to add their support.
This is becoming a significant limitation for us. iEXExchanger is actively evolving, migrating to PostgreSQL 18, with new versions of PHP, Node.js, and other modern components. Dependency on the panel may slow down the adoption of new technologies, performance upgrades, and security measures.
Therefore, we want to independently manage the server environment, promptly maintain up-to-date stable versions of operating systems, and release updates without waiting for changes from third-party developers.
One-step setup
Instead of separate panel instructions, we will provide ready-made files and a unified method to install iEXExchanger on a clean Linux server.
To start the installation, run a single command. After that, the system will automatically:
- will check the server and its compliance with requirements;
- will install the necessary components;
- will configure Nginx, PHP, PostgreSQL, Redis, Node.js, and other services;
- will prepare a secure server configuration;
- will install and launch iEXExchanger;
- will check the operation of all components after installation.
The user will not need to manually install and configure each service separately.
Installation with AI
Additionally, we will prepare ready-made prompts and instructions for AI tools.
They can be handed over to an AI agent who will assist in connecting to the server, starting the installation, checking the settings, identifying potential errors, and ensuring that iEXExchanger operates correctly.
This will give users several installation options: fully automatic one-command launch, installation with AI assistance, or manual setup following the documentation.
More freedom in choosing a server
We also discontinue the exclusive recommendation of FastVPS as our main provider.
After switching to the new system, users will be able to select a server based on its location, performance, cost, and project requirements.
The list of recommended options will include:
- DigitalOcean;
- Hetzner;
- other trusted VPS and dedicated server providers.
FastVPS will continue to be supported but will become one of the available options rather than the primary hosting method for iEXExchanger.
The main requirement will be that the server meets the system requirements, rather than having FastPanel or using a specific hosting provider.
Switching to our own installation and update system will make iEXExchanger more independent, secure, and easier to maintain. We will be able to support modern operating systems and software components faster without restrictions from third-party control panels.
