Setting up your own local server will allow you to build and edit your websites live in a local environment, this is powerful!
This allows you to “get it right” before going live with your new WordPress website or blog.
In this PART 2 tutorial series on WordPress, we’ll be delving into how to install XAMPP locally, and also the WAMPSERVER.
The very first thing we need to do is download XAMPP or WAMP, not both (although you could).
How to you know which one to use?
Really, it boils down to personal preference, since they are both very similar.
For more then 5 years I have used XAMPP without any problems. About 2 months ago I decided to try the WAMPSERVER just for kicks!
I liked it!
At the moment I’m using both, but that’s only because I’ve been transferring all my local XAMPP sites over to the WAMP and haven’t finished yet. I like the look and ease of the WAMP a little better.
When your deciding which one to use, don’t over analyze it. They are both great and you can’t go wrong with either one.
We’ll start by installing XAMPP first. This is very easy and I’ve taken quite a few screenshots so you can follow along. If you’ve made up your mind you’d like to install the WAMP server, simply scroll down this page to where the WAMPSERVER tutorial begins.
Download XAMPP if you haven’t done so already. http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html
You will need to choose your operating system (I will be installing on windows)
Now choose ZIP or EXE format. I will be choosing self extracting EXE:
Once your download is complete, we’ll start the installation.
Double click the XAMPP file you just downloaded to start installation.
You wil get the following popup window. Although you can change the installation folder, it’s best to keep it as the default setting on the C: drive.
Click “Install”
The files will begin extraction/installation and will take several minutes, be patient.
Once the files have been extracted you will get the following popup where you will be asked if you’d like shortcuts created, type “y”
The next screen is about locating the paths correctly, type in “y”
Now you will be asked if you’d like to drop the drive letters to create a portable version. Type “n”. (if you do want a portable version, go download the “lite” version, not this one)
You will then be told that XAMPP is ready to use, press “Return”
The screen will ask if your time zone is correct. The default is Eastern Time Zone USA. Press “Return”.
This is the last screenshot before the install is complete. Type “1″ so we can fire up XAMPP for testing, then type “x” to close the command window.
You should now see this in the lower right corner of your desktop. Press the start button next to Apache and MySql.
You will now see Apache and Mysql running!
XAMPP is now installed, and you’ve fired it up. Now lets’ test it out. Make sure your disconnected from the internet. At the moment there are no security protocols in place and you are vulnerable. (We’ll correct this in the next tutorial) So, disconnect the internet, then open up your browser.
Type “localhost” in the address bar, hit enter.
You will arrive at a splash screen where you’ll need to choose your language. Click your choice and you should now see a congratulations screen!
XAMPP is now installed and operational. Now let’s install WAMP.
Download WAMPSERVER if you haven’t done so already. http://www.wampserver.com/en/download.php
Once your download is complete, we’ll start the installation.
Double click the WAMP file you just downloaded to start installation.
You will get the startup wizard popup, click the “Next” button.
You must agree to the terms by choosing “I agree” then clicking “Next”
You will be asked for an install location. Leave as the default which is c:\wamp then click the “Next” button.
If you would like shortcuts added to the desktop or quick launch then decide that here, then click the “Next” button.
The next screen is just to verify you want to proceed and everything is cool. Click the “Next” button.
WAMP will now begin installation. This will only take a few minutes. Just before it finishes installation, you will get a popup asking for your default browser. You can just click “Next” or browse your folders and find the browser exe.
You will now see a popup asking for your PHP mail parameters. Just click the “Next” button.
Cool, WAMP is installed! Now click the finish button and we’ll test it out.
WAMP is now installed, and you’ve fired it up. Now lets’ test it out. Make sure your disconnected from the internet. At the moment there are no security protocols in place and you are vulnerable. (We’ll correct this in the next tutorial).
Notice the WAMP icon in your system tray
Left click the WAMP icon and choose “Localhost”
You should now see the WAMP welcome screen which will show you info about your server and your current projects (which should be none)
Now let’s make sure phpMyAdmin is good by clicking the “phpMyAdmin” link.
WAMP is now installed and operational, congratulations!
In the next tutorial we will add some security to both the XAMPP installation and to WAMP as well.
5 (Leave a Reply)
Can I install WAMP and XAMPP both in C:\? Will there be any conflict when I start WAMP or XAMPP? I am using a Windows XP Home edition.
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