DreamHost offers one click installs for a stack of open source software. Which makes it incredibly simple to get a fully functional database driven site up In 5 mins — without much hosting or programming knowledge.

Sweet, eh?

Dreamhost even has an “Easy Mode” for installing WordPress, Zenphoto, phpBB, and Drupal. In easy mode, Dreamhost handles all the software management/upgrades (installation, upgrades, and maintenance is 100% handled for you!), and no files are installed to your account. However, in easy mode you cannot install your own plugins or themes (though there are a number included).

To have full customization, choose the advanced mode instead.

In “advanced mode” (which is still incredibly simple) there are even more 1-click-install web software available: WordPress, Zenphoto, phpBB, Gallery, ZenCart, Pligg, Joomla and others. Remember by using advanced mode you are responsible for upgrading your old installations. Luckily, you can even upgrade your software when needed via the same control panel.

I find this an excellent way to set-up friend’s who don’t know the first thing about HTML, FTP, or hosting, with their own blog or online store.

Check out the support wiki for more information about 1-click installs available through Dreamhost, as well as overviews of the software offered through this service.