Introduction
Dolibarr is an open-source ERP & CRM that allows businesses of all sizes to efficiently manage their operations. Easy to install and use, it offers a complete solution for managing clients, invoices, stock, projects, and much more. This article provides a step-by-step guide for beginners who want to install and configure Dolibarr to optimize their business management.
1. What is Dolibarr?
Dolibarr is an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software that centralizes all business activities. It is suitable for freelancers, SMEs, and large enterprises due to its flexibility and active community that constantly develops new modules.
1.1. Main Features of Dolibarr
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Client and prospect management
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Invoice and quote management
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Stock and order management
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Project and task tracking
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Human resources and expense management
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Integration with other software and applications via API
2. Installing Dolibarr
Dolibarr can be installed in different ways: on a local server, web hosting, or via Docker.
2.1. Prerequisites for Installation
Before starting the installation, make sure you have:
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A web server (Apache, Nginx)
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PHP 7.4 or later
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A MySQL or MariaDB database
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Access to web hosting or a local server
2.2. Installation on a Local Server (Windows, Linux, Mac)
Installation with Dolibarr Auto-Installer (Windows)
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Download Dolibarr from the official website (www.dolibarr.org)
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Launch the installer and follow the instructions
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Set up an installation folder
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Create a MySQL database and connect it to the software
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Complete the installation and log in to the interface
Manual Installation (Linux/Mac)
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Install Apache, MySQL, and PHP:
sudo apt update sudo apt install apache2 mysql-server php libapache2-mod-php php-mysql php-cli -
Download Dolibarr:
wget https://www.dolibarr.org/files/dolibarr.tgz -
Extract and move files:
tar -xvzf dolibarr.tgz mv dolibarr /var/www/html/ -
Configure the database:
mysql -u root -p CREATE DATABASE dolibarr; GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON dolibarr.* TO 'dolibarruser'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'password'; -
Access Dolibarr through your browser:
http://localhost/dolibarr/
3. Initial Configuration of Dolibarr
3.1. Basic Configuration
After installation, log in to the Dolibarr interface via http://localhost/dolibarr/ and follow the configuration steps:
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Choose the language
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Set up the database with access details
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Create an administrator account
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Validate the configuration
3.2. Activating Modules
Dolibarr offers several modules that can be activated according to your needs:
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Invoicing Module: for managing quotes and invoices
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CRM Module: for tracking clients and prospects
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Stock Module: for managing products and services
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HR Module: for managing employees and payroll
4. Optimization and Customization
4.1. Adding Modules and Extensions
Dolibarr has a marketplace where you can purchase and install extensions. To do this:
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Go to
Configuration > Modules -
Search for the desired module and activate it
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Configure the module settings
4.2. Customizing the Interface
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Change the theme in
Configuration > Display -
Add a logo and configure colors
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Create custom fields for invoices or clients
5. Security and Backup
5.1. Securing Dolibarr
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Change the default access port
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Enable HTTPS with an SSL certificate
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Restrict access to certain features based on roles
5.2. Backup and Restoration
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Export the database:
mysqldump -u dolibarruser -p dolibarr > backup.sql -
Backup files:
tar -czvf dolibarr_backup.tar.gz /var/www/html/dolibarr -
To restore:
mysql -u dolibarruser -p dolibarr < backup.sql
6. Conclusion
Dolibarr is a powerful and flexible solution that adapts to all businesses. Its installation and configuration are accessible even to beginners. By following this guide, you can efficiently start with Dolibarr and optimize the management of your business. Don't forget to explore the many features offered by Dolibarr to maximize your productivity!