Enabling the module via Drush or UIfor Drupal 8 , 9 , 10 , and 11

After setting up your module and configuring everything within the .info.yml file, the next crucial step is enabling it within your Drupal site. This lesson will guide you through two primary methods for enabling modules: using the command-line tool Drush and Drupal's user interface (UI). Mastering both methods will provide flexibility and efficiency in managing modules.

Understanding Module Enabling

Enabling a module involves activating it within your Drupal site, allowing it to execute its intended functions and integrate with other components of the system. Activation is necessary for testing, deploying features, and utilizing custom functionalities developed for the site.

Enabling Modules Using the Drupal UI

Enabling modules via the Drupal UI is the most intuitive way, ideal for users who prefer graphical interfaces:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Log in to Drupal Admin: Access your Drupal site administrative dashboard.
2. Navigate to the Extend Page: Click on Extend from the main admin menu. This takes you to the module management interface, where you can install or enable modules.
3. Locate Your Module: Use the search bar or scroll to find your custom module, such as "Hello World," under the designated package header.
4. Enable the Module: Check the box next to your module's name to select it. Then, click the Install button at the bottom of the page to enable the module.
5. Verify Activation: Once enabled, ensure the module is functioning correctly by checking for new functionalities or features it should introduce on your site.

This interface is user-friendly and provides an overview of all installed modules, making it simple to manage them.

Enabling Modules Using Drush

For those who prefer or require command-line access, Drush offers a powerful alternative to enable modules:

What is Drush?

Drush is a command-line shell and scripting interface specifically for Drupal. It automates many admin-level tasks, such as enabling modules, running updates, and clearing caches, which can be particularly useful for developers.

Prerequisites

Before using Drush, ensure it is installed on your server and accessible via the command line. You should have a basic understanding of terminal operations and access permissions.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open Terminal: Access your site's root directory through the terminal.
2. Use Drush to Enable: Run the following command to enable your module:

   drush en hello_world -y

   The -y flag automatically confirms all prompts, streamlining the process.
3. Verify Module Activation: Execute:

   drush pm-list

   This lists all enabled modules, allowing you to confirm activation of "Hello World."

This method is expedient for developers managing modules across multiple environments or needing to script changes.

Advantages and Considerations

Both enabling methods have their benefits:

• UI Method: Ideal for beginners and those preferring a graphical overview of modules. It facilitates learning Drupal's functionality and exploring module options seamlessly.
• Drush Method: Preferred by developers for efficiency and automation, especially in development environments. It reduces the time spent navigating through menus and allows batch processing of multiple modules.

Consider your role, environment constraints, and personal preference when choosing between the two methods. Understanding both enhances flexibility and proficiency in managing your Drupal site.

Conclusion

Enabling modules effectively activates their functionality within your Drupal site, whether you utilize the Drupal UI for simplicity or Drush for rapid implementation. Mastery in enabling modules supports efficient site management and empowers your development capabilities.

In the next lesson, we will explore further management practices in our topic on Disabling and uninstalling modules to maintain site performance. Keep learning to enhance your control over Drupal module management!