How to Install WordPress on a Local Server (XAMPP)

Setting up WordPress on a local server allows you to build and test websites without a live hosting environment. This guide will walk you through installing WordPress using XAMPP.

Step 1: Download and Install XAMPP

• Visit the official XAMPP download page.
• Download the latest version for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
• Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
• Ensure that Apache and MySQL services are running.

Step 2: Download WordPress

• Go to the official WordPress website.
• Download the latest WordPress zip file.
• Extract the files into the htdocs folder of your XAMPP installation (e.g., C:\xampp\htdocs\wordpress).

Step 3: Create a Database for WordPress

Before installing WordPress, you need to create a database:

1. Open XAMPP and start MySQL.
2. Go to phpMyAdmin.
3. Click Databases and enter a name (e.g., wordpress_db).
4. Click Create to generate the database.

Step 4: Configure WordPress

1. Go to C:\xampp\htdocs\wordpress.
2. Rename wp-config-sample.php to wp-config.php.
3. Open the file and update the following lines:

define('DB_NAME', 'wordpress_db');
define('DB_USER', 'root');
define('DB_PASSWORD', '');
define('DB_HOST', 'localhost');

Save the file and close it.

Step 5: Install WordPress

Now, install WordPress through the browser:

• Open a browser and go to http://localhost/wordpress/.
• Choose your preferred language and click Continue.
• Enter your site title, username, password, and email.
• Click Install WordPress.

Step 6: Log into WordPress

To access your local WordPress site, go to:

http://localhost/wordpress/wp-admin/

Enter your login credentials and start customizing your WordPress site.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed WordPress on a local server using XAMPP. Now, you can experiment with themes, plugins, and customizations before deploying your website live. For further learning, check out the WordPress Support Forum.