How to Set Up WordPress on a Local Server for Development
### Excerpt on Setting Up WordPress Locally
Setting up WordPress on a local server is essential for a safe and efficient development process. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to achieving this setup.
#### Prerequisites
Before starting, ensure you have the necessary tools:
1. **Local Server Environment:** Choose from options like [XAMPP](https://www.apachefriends.org/index.html), [MAMP](https://www.mamp.info/en/), or [WAMP](https://www.wampserver.com/en/) to get essential services like Apache, MySQL, and PHP installed.
2. **WordPress Files:** Obtain the latest version from [WordPress.org](https://wordpress.org/download/).
#### Steps to Install WordPress Locally
1. **Install Your Local Server:** Follow the official instructions for your chosen environment and verify that Apache and MySQL are running.
2. **Create a Database:** Access `phpMyAdmin` by navigating to `http://localhost/phpmyadmin`. Create a new database by entering a name and clicking “Create.”
3. **Configure WordPress Files:** Extract WordPress files into the designated directory (`htdocs` for XAMPP, `www` for WAMP) and rename `wp-config-sample.php` to `wp-config.php`. Edit this file to update database credentials:
“`php
define(‘DB_NAME’, ‘your_database_name’);
define(‘DB_USER’, ‘root’);
define(‘DB_PASSWORD’, ”);
define(‘DB_HOST’, ‘localhost’);
“`
4. **Run the WordPress Installation:** Visit `http://localhost/your-folder-name` in your browser and follow the installation prompts to configure your site.
### Conclusion
This setup provides a safe space to test WordPress changes before live deployment. When ready to move your site to a live server, refer to best practices for site migration. For further guidance, explore the [official WordPress tutorials](https://wordpress.org/support/category/tutorials/).