Installing Your Own php.ini on a Shared Server

[Bluto]

Excuse me admins if you feel this is in the wrong place, and please move to the area you feel appropriate. If you find this may cause more problems than it may solve, feel free to remove it at your discretion. It was in my futile efforts in trying to get the Teamspeak Block code to work that led me to this solution. I also ask for any suggestions or comments you have that may be helpful.

After running into problems installing either SMF mods, or Block Code Snippets due to constraints on a shared host, I've finally found an easy way to install your own php.ini, on your domain, so that you may change some of the settings, enabling the use of these mods and codes that otherwise won't work on many shared hosting plans.
These instructions were written for Dreamhost customers, but I believe they may work on any shared hosting plan. I have no way to test that, so I would advise that you first contact your host, and advice them that you would like to install your own php.ini on your domain. This method works very easily and runs with-out flaw on Dreamhost, I cannot promise the same for others. Ok, enough of the disclaimer.
First go to this link: Custom php.ini
For more advanced users, you may start from the begining but, the easiest way is to scroll down about half way to the line: Alternate Non-shell method .
Read the instructions carefully. The 2 files need to go in your www.domain directory via ftp.
First do the test to make sure the procedure will work, Next install either php 4 or 5.
When you are done installing, upload the php.info file, attached to this post, to the root directory. Go to that file in your browser and open it. It will show you your current php settings.
You will also notice a new cgi-bin directory and an htaccess file. If you already have this directory, then you probably already have your own php.ini file. If you are already using an htaccess file, you may have to alter it to add the changes this install makes. Or, it may be overwritten, I don't know as that is not my situation.
Some settings you may need to change for some specific blocks.
For the Teamspeak block code you must have:  allow_call_time_pass_reference set to on
For SMF Store and classifieds, you must have fsockopen enabled in PHP and GD is required for resizing of images for products.
I'm sure some of these values will also apply to other block codes found here on TP and is why I am posting here.
I cannot emphasize enough that you must use caution when changing any php.ini values as they may pose a security risk. Please consult with you host first!
Also, I am not a coder or am I a host, so if you have questions, chances are, I won't have the answers.
I hope this will help those having similar issues, and if you don't need it, don't do it.
Thanks,
B-Lute