- XAMPP is a free software package that includes Apache, MySQL, PHP and Perl.
- Allows you to simulate a local server on your computer without having to pay for hosting.
- Databases can be managed through phpMyAdmin, accessible from localhost.
- It is key to test web projects before deploying them on a real server.
If you've decided to start with web development or test your sites in a local environment, you've probably come across XAMPP, an indispensable tool for working with PHP, MySQL, and other components necessary for any website to function properly. If you're on a Windows 10 computer and you're not sure how to start installing XAMPP, you've come to the right place. In this article, I'll show you step by step how to install and configure XAMPP, easily and without complications.
In addition, we will cover some important details to avoid common problems during installation, and how to make the most of the features offered by the XAMPP package to create an effective testing environment. Let's get started!
What is XAMPP?
XAMPP is a free software package that provides a complete environment for installing a local server on your computer. It consists of several essential components such as Apache (the web server), MySQL/MariaDB (for managing databases), PHP (programming language) and Perl. Thanks to this software, you can simulate a server environment without having to pay for hosting.
It is ideal for both beginners and expert developers who need to test their projects locally before uploading them to a live server. XAMPP is available for various platforms such as Windows, Linux, and macOS. Here we will focus on how to install it on Windows 10.
Downloading XAMPP
To get started, the first thing we need to do is head over to the official XAMPP website, where you'll find different versions available depending on your PHP needs. It's recommended to choose the latest stable version available to ensure the best compatibility and security.
Once on the download page, select the option XAMPP for Windows. Remember that the minimum version of Windows required is Windows 7, so you won't have any problems using it on Windows 10.
Installing XAMPP on Windows 10
Once the installer has downloaded, double-click on it to begin. You may get some Windows security warnings or User Account Control (UAC) prompts, in which case you should just allow the installer to make changes to your computer.
1. Installation Wizard
When you start the installation wizard, the first thing you will see is a warning about the access permissions that the program might require if you install it in the “Program Files”. Although you can change the installation path, it is recommended to leave the default path at C:\xampp. This will avoid permission issues later.
Press "Next” and continues with the wizard.
2. Component selection
One of the most important steps is selecting the components you want to install. Choose the necessary options depending on the use you are going to give it, although I recommend that you install everything that XAMPP offers to have a complete testing environment. Crucial components such as Apache, MySQL y phpMyAdmin They are mandatory if you are going to work with databases and dynamic websites.
3. Folder Settings
As I already mentioned, the default folder will be C:\xampp, although you can change it if you wish. Simply click on the folder selection button and choose a new location. However, it is recommended to leave the default path to avoid permissions issues.
4. Complete the installation
After choosing the components and the folder, the wizard will show you some additional details such as the option to install Bitnami, a tool for installing systems like WordPress or Joomla. You can uncheck this option if you are not interested.
Finally, click on “Next” and the installation will begin. Depending on your computer’s performance, it may take a few minutes.
XAMPP Configuration
Once the installation is complete, the XAMPP Control Panel. This is where you can start or stop the different services such as Apache o MySQL. To test that everything went well, click on “Start” in Apache and MySQL, and make sure the modules turn green, indicating they are working properly.
Common troubleshooting
Sometimes when you start the Apache server, you may find that the port 80 or 443 are already in use by another program, such as Skype. This will prevent Apache from running properly. Here are three possible solutions:
- Change the port in Skype. Uncheck the “ports 80 and 443” option in Skype’s connection settings.
- Modify the Apache port. You can edit the files httpd.conf y httpd-ssl.conf to change these ports to others, such as 8080 or 8443.
- Temporarily close Skype before starting Apache.
Accessing phpMyAdmin and managing databases
If you need to manage databases for your projects, XAMPP includes phpMyAdmin, a very useful tool to manage databases such as MySQL or MariaDB. You only need to start MySQL from the control panel and then access http://localhost/phpmyadmin.
The default user will be root and it doesn't have a password, although it's recommended to change it if you plan to use the server for anything other than local testing.
Create and manage projects in XAMPP
One of the most common questions is where to place the projects you want to run on the local server. To do this, direct your projects to the folder htdocs inside the XAMPP installation directory. If you have a test project called “mysite”, simply create a subfolder with that name inside “htdocs”. Then, access through the browser to http://localhost/misitio and your project will load as if it were hosted on a real server.
This is a great way to test your developments before publishing them online.
As you've seen, installing and configuring XAMPP on Windows 10 is a fairly simple process if you follow each of the steps carefully. It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or an experienced developer, XAMPP gives you all the tools you need to work on your projects locally without having to pay for an external server. In addition, the possibility of managing your databases and running your developments quickly is one of the great advantages of this software. If you want to start experimenting with web development, XAMPP is the package you need on your computer.
I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.
If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.