WordPress requests FTP details when updating WordPress or plugins

Symptoms

You may be asked for FTP connection details when attempting to update WordPress or WordPress plugins.

Description 

This typically occurs when scripts are being executed with the permissions of the Apache user, "nobody", instead of the cPanel user.

Workaround

Installing mod_suexec or mod_ruid2 will allow the user to launch processes with the appropriate ownership:

1. Access your server via WHM as the root user
2. Navigate to "Home / Software / EasyApache 4"
3. Select the option to "Customize" the current profile
4. Choose the "Apache Modules" category on the side menu
5. Search for and select either "mod_suexec" or "mod_ruid2" to install. You can only install one of these, and they are compatible with different plugins and environments. If you are not sure which to install, please consult your System Administrator.
6. Select the option to "Review" the installation and "Provision" when you are ready to commit the changes.

Additional Information

Further information on the importance of running scripts as the script owner can be found here:

What's the importance of running scripts as the user?