---
title: Installation
description: Learn how to install WaypointAds in Joomla, open it for the first time, use the optional Learning Example and safely upgrade to future versions.
canonical_url: https://waypointads.com/getting-started/installation
language: en-GB
date: 2026-09-04T02:12:54Z
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### Installing WaypointAds

Installing WaypointAds is no different from installing most modern Joomla extensions. If you've installed an extension before, you'll feel right at home.

Simply download the appropriate installation package, log into your Joomla Administrator, and use Joomla's built-in Extension Manager to install the package.

Within a few moments, WaypointAds will be ready to use.

### Installing the Extension

- Log into your Joomla Administrator.
- Select System from the main menu.
- Open Extensions.
- Select Install Extensions.
- Upload the WaypointAds installation package.
- Wait for Joomla to complete the installation.
 
When the installation finishes successfully, Joomla will display a confirmation message indicating that the extension has been installed.

### Opening WaypointAds

After installation, WaypointAds is available from the Joomla Administrator menu.

The first time you open the extension, you'll be taken to the setup area where you can choose whether to install the optional Learning Example. This creates sample advertisers, campaigns, creatives, and zones so you can explore how WaypointAds works before adding your own information.

You may install the Learning Example or continue without it. Once that choice has been made, you can proceed to the WaypointAds Dashboard, where you'll find an overview of the advertising system and quick access to its main features.

### Upgrading WaypointAds

Future updates are installed using exactly the same Joomla installation process.

Simply upload the newer installation package through Joomla's Extension Manager. Joomla will detect the existing installation and perform the upgrade while preserving your advertising data and configuration.

As always, we recommend creating a complete website backup before installing any update.

### After Installation

Once WaypointAds has been installed, we recommend following these steps:

1. Review the Dashboard.
2. Install the Learning Example if you'd like to explore the extension with sample data.
3. Read the Quick Start guide.
4. Create your first Advertiser.
5. Create your first Campaign and Creative.
 
Most administrators can have their first advertisement displayed within just a few minutes.

### Need Help?

If installation doesn't go as expected, don't worry. Visit the Troubleshooting section of this documentation for solutions to common installation issues, or visit the WaypointAds support resources for additional assistance.

Our goal is to make installing WaypointAds as straightforward as using it.

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