Nginx Configuration File Missing: Fix the issue Step by Step

Introduction: This tutorial addresses a common issue faced by users running Nginx on Virtual Private Servers (VPS) - the absence of the /etc/nginx/nginx.conf file. This file is vital for Nginx to function correctly, and its absence can prevent the Nginx service from starting.

Troubleshooting Steps:

Step 1: Check the Nginx Configuration File

Begin by verifying the existence of the configuration file:

cat /etc/nginx/nginx.conf

If you receive a "no such file or directory" message, proceed with the following steps.

Step 2: Remove and Reinstall Nginx

First, remove Nginx:

sudo apt-get --purge remove nginx

Next, reinstall Nginx:

sudo apt-get install nginx

Step 3: Restart Nginx

Restart the Nginx service to apply changes:

sudo systemctl restart nginx

Step 4: Check the Nginx Service Status

Ensure the service is running properly:

sudo systemctl status nginx

If the Above Steps Do Not Resolve the Issue:

Step 5: Stop Nginx Service

Stop the Nginx service:

sudo systemctl stop nginx

Step 6: Purge Nginx Completely

Completely remove Nginx and its components:

sudo apt-get --purge remove nginx nginx-common nginx-full nginx-core

Step 7: Clean Up Dependencies

Remove unnecessary packages:

sudo apt-get autoremove

Clean up the package cache:

sudo apt-get autoclean

Step 8: Reinstall Nginx

Update package lists:

sudo apt-get update

Install Nginx:

sudo apt-get install nginx

Step 9: Start and Verify Nginx Service

Start the Nginx service:

sudo systemctl start nginx

Check the service status:

sudo systemctl status nginx

Conclusion:

Following these troubleshooting steps should resolve the issue of a missing Nginx configuration file, ensuring that your Nginx service operates correctly on your VPS.