Fix rsync Failed to Connect to cPanel Error

August 21, 2025 / General Discussion

Introduction:

When updating cPanel with /scripts/updatenow, you may encounter the “rsync failed to connect to cPanel” error:

rsync: failed to connect to rsync.cpanel.net: No route to host

This happens when firewall rules block cPanel update ports. Here’s how to fix it step by step.

Steps:

  1. Run the update command to confirm the error:
    /scripts/updatenow
  2. Allow outgoing connections through ports 2080–2099 in your firewall:
    iptables -I INPUT -p tcp –dport 2080:2099 -j ACCEPT
    iptables -I OUTPUT -p tcp –dport 2080:2099 -j ACCEPT
    service iptables save
    service iptables restart
  3. Run the following commands as root to refresh cPanel:
    /usr/local/cpanel/cpkeyclt
    rm -f /usr/local/cpanel/cpanel
    /scripts/upcp
  4. Verify the update again with:
    /scripts/updatenow


Pro Tip:

Always keep firewall rules updated and ensure cPanel ports (2080–2099) remain open to avoid future sync failures. Regular updates help maintain server security and performance.