~2 min read • Updated Feb 21, 2026
1. Introduction
This guide explains how to fully uninstall LiteSpeed Web Server from cPanel & WHM. Following these steps ensures that LiteSpeed will not be reinstalled automatically during future system updates.
2. Uninstall LiteSpeed Web Server
Step 1: Switch the Web Server Back to Apache
As the root user, run the following command to switch from LiteSpeed to Apache:
/usr/local/lsws/admin/misc/cp_switch_ws.sh apacheThen verify that Apache is running by navigating to:
WHM » Home » Server Status » Apache Status
The Restart Time header will show the last time Apache restarted.
Step 2: Uninstall the LiteSpeed WHM Plugin
This step removes only the LiteSpeed plugin from WHM. It does not remove the LiteSpeed Web Server itself.
/usr/local/cpanel/whostmgr/docroot/cgi/lsws/lsws_whm_plugin_uninstall.shStep 3: Remove LiteSpeed Web Server Files
To completely remove LiteSpeed files from your server, run the following command:
/usr/local/lsws/admin/misc/uninstall.shStep 4: Prevent Automatic Reinstallation (For cPanel Store Purchases)
Important: This step is required only for users who purchased LiteSpeed Web Server through the cPanel Store.
Create the following touch file to prevent upcp from reinstalling LiteSpeed during the next cPanel & WHM update:
touch /var/cpanel/disable_auto_lswsConclusion
By following these steps, LiteSpeed Web Server will be fully removed from your server, and automatic reinstallation will be prevented. This ensures your system remains on Apache unless you manually choose to reinstall LiteSpeed in the future.
Written & researched by Dr. Shahin Siami