Step-by-Step Guide on How to Install WordPress Locally with XAMPP

Installing WordPress locally is a great way to test and develop your website before going live. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Set Up a Local Server Environment

1. Install a Local Server Environment:
   • Use software like XAMPP, WampServer, or MAMP to set up a local server environment on your computer.
2. Download and Install XAMPP (Example):
   • Visit XAMPP’s official website.
   • Download the XAMPP installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
   • Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions to install XAMPP.

Step 2: Start the Local Server and Database

1. Launch XAMPP:
   • Open XAMPP and start the Apache and MySQL services.

Step 3: Download WordPress

1. Visit WordPress Official Website:
   • Go to WordPress.org.
2. Download WordPress:
   • Download the latest version of WordPress.

Step 4: Create a WordPress Database

1. Access phpMyAdmin:
   • In your web browser, go to http://localhost/phpmyadmin.
2. Create Database:
   • Click on “Databases” and create a new database (e.g., wpdatabase).

Step 5: Configure WordPress

1. Extract WordPress Files:
   • Navigate to the directory where you installed XAMPP (e.g., C:\xampp\htdocs on Windows).
   • Create a new folder for your WordPress site (e.g., mylocalsite).
   • Extract the WordPress zip file into this folder.
2. Rename Configuration File:
   • In the WordPress folder, find the file named wp-config-sample.php and rename it to wp-config.php.
3. Edit Configuration File:
   • Open wp-config.php in a text editor.
   • Enter your database details (database name, username, and password).

Step 6: Run WordPress Installation

1. Visit Your Local WordPress Site:
   • Open your web browser and go to http://localhost/yourfoldername (replace “yourfoldername” with the name of the folder where you extracted WordPress).
2. Complete Installation:
   • Follow the WordPress installation wizard, providing the site information, admin username, password, and email.
3. Login to Your WordPress Dashboard:
   • Once installation is complete, log in to the WordPress dashboard using the admin credentials.

Step 7: Explore and Develop Locally

1. Customize Your Site:
   • Start exploring and customizing your WordPress site locally.
   • Install themes, plugins, and create content as needed.

You’ve successfully installed WordPress locally, allowing you to develop and test your website before going live.