OpenAdmin is the central administrative interface for managing an OpenPanel server — similar to how WHM works in cPanel. While it provides access to user accounts, configurations, and services, in some cases you might want to disable it entirely to increase security or prevent web access to the admin interface.
If you manage your server primarily via SSH or CLI tools (like opencli), disabling OpenAdmin can help minimize exposure to potential attacks on port 2087.
By disabling the OpenAdmin web interface, you effectively close access to the control panel while keeping the backend (user) services running. This can be useful in scenarios such as:
- Hardened or locked-down environments where all administration is automated or performed via command line.
- Temporary maintenance or security auditing periods.
You can easily manage the OpenAdmin service using the opencli command:
Stops and disables the OpenAdmin web service:
opencli admin off
Enables and starts the OpenAdmin web service:
opencli admin on
In summary, disabling OpenAdmin prevents anyone from accessing the OpenAdmin web UI, but doesn’t affect running websites or user services. You can always re-enable it later if needed.