Technical Guides • January 16, 2025 • Admin

Advanced WHMCS Module Development: From Concept to Production

Advanced WHMCS Module Development: From Concept to Production

Developing WHMCS modules requires understanding the module architecture, database operations, admin interfaces, and client area integration. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

Module Structure

A WHMCS module consists of several key components:

  • Module File: Main PHP file containing module logic
  • Configuration: Module configuration options
  • Admin Interface: Admin area integration
  • Client Area: Client-facing functionality
  • Database Tables: Custom data storage

Module Types

1. Server Modules

Server modules handle service provisioning, suspension, and termination. They integrate with hosting panels, IPTV systems, and other service providers.

2. Addon Modules

Addon modules extend WHMCS functionality with additional features like referral systems, giveaways, or custom reporting.

3. Payment Gateway Modules

Payment gateway modules integrate payment processors like Stripe, PayPal, or cryptocurrency gateways.

Module Configuration

Define module configuration in the module file:

function yourmodule_ConfigOptions() {
    return array(
        'API Key' => array(
            'Type' => 'text',
            'Size' => '25',
            'Description' => 'Enter your API key'
        ),
        'API Secret' => array(
            'Type' => 'password',
            'Size' => '25',
            'Description' => 'Enter your API secret'
        )
    );
}

Database Operations

WHMCS provides database helper functions:

// Insert data
full_query("INSERT INTO mod_yourmodule (field1, field2) VALUES ('value1', 'value2')");

// Select data
$result = select_query("mod_yourmodule", "*", array("id" => $id));
$data = mysql_fetch_assoc($result);

// Update data
update_query("mod_yourmodule", array("field1" => "newvalue"), array("id" => $id));

// Delete data
delete_query("mod_yourmodule", array("id" => $id));

Admin Area Integration

Add admin area pages using hooks:

add_hook('AdminAreaPage', 1, function($vars) {
    if ($vars['filename'] == 'clients') {
        return array('customVariable' => 'value');
    }
});

Client Area Integration

Extend the client area with custom pages and functionality:

add_hook('ClientAreaPage', 1, function($vars) {
    if ($vars['templatefile'] == 'yourpage') {
        return array('customData' => getCustomData());
    }
});

Error Handling

Implement comprehensive error handling:

  • Validate all input data
  • Handle API failures gracefully
  • Log errors for debugging
  • Provide user-friendly error messages

Testing and Debugging

  • Test in a development environment first
  • Use WHMCS debug mode for troubleshooting
  • Check module logs for errors
  • Test all module functions thoroughly

Deployment Best Practices

  • Follow WHMCS coding standards
  • Use proper version control
  • Create installation documentation
  • Provide upgrade paths for existing installations
  • Test compatibility with different WHMCS versions

Conclusion

Module development for WHMCS requires careful planning, proper architecture, and thorough testing. By following best practices and understanding the module system, you can create robust, maintainable modules that extend WHMCS functionality effectively.

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