Installing TYPO3 Extensions: Complete Guide

TYPO3 is a powerful enterprise CMS that you can extend with hundreds of extensions. At Theory7, we help clients daily find and install the right extensions for their projects. In this guide, we explain how to install, activate, and manage extensions.

What are TYPO3 Extensions?

Extensions are additions that add extra functionality to your TYPO3 website. Think of forms, news modules, e-commerce features, or advanced SEO tools. The official TYPO3 Extension Repository (TER) contains thousands of extensions, both free and paid.

Unlike WordPress plugins, TYPO3 extensions are often more complex and offer enterprise-level functionality. This makes them suitable for large websites and complex applications.

Installing Extensions via Composer

The modern and recommended way to install extensions is via Composer. This ensures correct dependency management and makes updates easier.

Step 1: Search for the Extension

First, search for the Composer package name of the extension. You can find this at:

The package name usually follows the format vendor/extension-name.

Step 2: Install the Extension

Connect via SSH to your server and navigate to your TYPO3 root directory:

For example, for the popular news extension:

composer require vendor/extension-name

Composer will automatically download the extension and all dependencies.

Step 3: Update the Database

After installation, you need to update the database:

php typo3cms database:updateschema

Activating Extensions in the Admin Panel

After installation via Composer, you still need to activate the extension:

  1. Log in to your TYPO3 backend
  2. Go to Admin Tools in the left menu
  3. Click on Extensions
  4. Find your extension in the list
  5. Click on the activate icon (plus sign)

The extension is now active and available for use.

At Theory7, we see that these extensions are the most commonly used:

Content and News

  • news - The standard news extension for TYPO3
  • tt_news - Alternative news module with a long history

Forms

  • powermail - Powerful form builder
  • form - Standard TYPO3 form extension
  • formhandler - Advanced form processing

Layout and Design

  • gridelements - Flexible grid layouts in the backend
  • container - Modern container elements
  • mask - Custom content elements without programming

SEO and Marketing

  • yoast_seo - SEO optimization as you know from WordPress
  • cs_seo - Complete SEO toolkit for TYPO3
  • indexed_search - Advanced search functionality

E-commerce

  • cart - Shopping cart functionality
  • fe_login - Frontend user management

Updating Extensions

Regular updates are essential for security and compatibility:

composer update

Always make a backup before updating extensions.

Check Extension Compatibility

Not every extension works with every TYPO3 version. Check the compatibility on the TER page of the extension. Look for:

  • Supported TYPO3 versions
  • PHP version requirements
  • Date of last update
  • Number of downloads and reviews

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Extension Does Not Appear in the List

Clear the caches after installation:

Composer Error Message About Dependencies

Check if you are running the correct PHP and TYPO3 version. Update your core installation if necessary.

Database Errors After Activation

Run the database update again:

php typo3cms database:updateschema

Need Help?

We are here for you! Are you facing any issues or have questions? Our support team is happy to assist you personally. Send us a message via the ticket system - we usually respond within a few hours and are happy to help.