local testing for php and mysql

[deanosrs]

Running windows xp and looking for a way to test php and mysql locally. Can someone recommend a way this is possible? Thanks.

[scoutt]

yup, you can download apache and mysql and php for free.

to install mysql an get it running read this
http://www.htmlforums.com/showthread.php?t=53484

apache is self explainatory but you can read this for apache/php install
http://www.htmlforums.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=40769

that should help you :)

[Horus_Kol]

if you have XP pro then the CD will also have IIS on it as an installable option...

[_Aerospace_Eng_]

I prefer using XAMPP (http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html). Its an easy to use installer that comes with apache, mysql, mercury, and filezilla along with many other server side capabilities.

[Horus_Kol]

installers are good for when you are starting out - just like HTML editors - and even when you've been working for a long time...

but the only way to truly understand the workings of your server, and the configurations of the various software used, is to wade in completely.

[scoutt]

plus some installers don't give you all of php extensions to work with. some are limited in that dept.

sometimes installing them seperately fomr a very good tutorial you can do it in less time than it would to install a installer. I can configure apache and php in 10min. bu tI also have seen some take days as they miss settings.

[Horus_Kol]

yeah - i got the IIS/PHP configuration down pat on 2k and XP - 2k3 is a pain in the arse though... damned "web extensions"