This is the first chapter of the Complete
WordPress Theme Guide series. In this chapter, you will learn how to install WordPress on a local computer. By doing so, it will save you time from updating and previewing files (so, you don't have to frequently upload files on every change). You can also use the local version to test new plugins, themes, and upgrades. This tutorial is intended for beginners who want to learn how to run WordPress locally.
Quick SummaryIf you have some technical background, you can skip the detailed steps in this tutorial. Here are the simplified steps on how to install WordPress on a local computer:
Let's Begin...Before you start, let's look at the requirements to run WordPress:
- PHP 4.3+
- MySQL 4+ Database Server
1.Install a Local ServerIn order to run any PHP/database application on a local computer, you need a local host (ie. Apache + MySQL). For Mac, use
http://www.mamp.info. For PC, use
http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html or
http://www.wampserver.com/en/2.Create a New DatabaseAfter you've installed Wamp or Xampp, run it and it should take you to the start page. Now click on phpMyAdmin. In the phpMyAdmin page, create a new database (eg. wordpress).
3.Download WordPressGo to wordpress.org and download the latest build of WordPress. Go to the www folder (where you installed the WAMP), extract the wordpress.zip to a new folder (eg. mysite).
4.Run install.phpWith your browser, go to
http://localhost/mysite/wp-admin/install.php and follow the instructions to install WordPress.