Installing WordPress on Windows 10 is easier than you might think! First, you’ll need to set up a local server using software like XAMPP. After that, download and extract WordPress, then configure your database and run the WordPress installation script. Finally, you’ll be able to access your WordPress site locally and start customizing it. Follow the steps below to get WordPress up and running on your Windows 10 machine.
How to Install WordPress on Windows 10
In this section, I’ll walk you through the steps to install WordPress on Windows 10. By following these steps, you’ll have a local WordPress environment to test and develop your site without needing a live server.
Step 1: Download XAMPP
Start by downloading XAMPP from the official Apache Friends website.
XAMPP is a free and open-source cross-platform web server solution stack package developed by Apache Friends. It consists mainly of the Apache HTTP Server, MySQL database, and interpreters for scripts written in the PHP and Perl programming languages.
Step 2: Install XAMPP
Run the downloaded XAMPP installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
During the installation, you might be asked to select components. Ensure that Apache, MySQL, PHP, and phpMyAdmin are selected. The default options will normally work just fine.
Step 3: Start the Modules
Open the XAMPP control panel and start the Apache and MySQL modules.
The control panel provides an easy-to-use interface to start and stop the different modules. You should see green lights indicating that Apache and MySQL are running.
Step 4: Download WordPress
Go to the official WordPress website and download the latest version of WordPress.
The downloaded file will be a zip archive. Extract it to a location on your computer where you can easily find it.
Step 5: Move WordPress Files
Copy the extracted WordPress folder to the "htdocs" directory inside your XAMPP installation folder.
The "htdocs" directory is the root directory for your local web server. By placing the WordPress files here, you’re making them accessible via your local server.
Step 6: Create a Database
Open a web browser and navigate to http://localhost/phpmyadmin to create a new MySQL database for WordPress.
Click on the "Databases" tab, then enter a name for your database and click "Create". Make a note of the database name, as you’ll need it in the next step.
Step 7: Configure wp-config.php
Open the WordPress folder in the "htdocs" directory and rename "wp-config-sample.php" to "wp-config.php". Then, edit this file to add your database details.
You’ll need to enter the database name you created earlier, along with "root" as the username and leave the password blank. Save the changes to the file.
Step 8: Run the WordPress Installation
Open a web browser and navigate to http://localhost/wordpress to run the WordPress installation script.
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your WordPress site. You’ll need to enter details like the site title, username, and password.
Once you complete these steps, WordPress will be installed on your Windows 10 machine. You can now log in to your local WordPress site and start customizing it to your liking.
Tips for Installing WordPress on Windows 10
- Backup Important Files: Always back up your files before making any major changes to your system.
- Use Strong Passwords: For added security, use strong passwords for your WordPress admin account.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update XAMPP and WordPress to the latest versions to benefit from new features and security patches.
- Localhost URL: Remember that you can access your local WordPress site via http://localhost/wordpress.
- phpMyAdmin: Use phpMyAdmin for easy database management and troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is XAMPP?
XAMPP is a free and open-source web server solution stack package that enables you to run a local web server on your PC.
Why do I need XAMPP for WordPress?
XAMPP provides the necessary server environment (including Apache, MySQL, and PHP) to run WordPress on your local machine.
Can I use another software besides XAMPP?
Yes, there are alternatives like WAMP, MAMP, and Local by Flywheel that also provide local server environments for WordPress development.
Is installing WordPress locally different from installing it on a live server?
The process is similar, but installing WordPress locally doesn’t involve domain registration or live web hosting.
How do I update WordPress on my local machine?
You can update WordPress on your local machine just like you would on a live server, through the WordPress admin dashboard.
Summary
- Download XAMPP.
- Install XAMPP.
- Start the modules.
- Download WordPress.
- Move WordPress files.
- Create a database.
- Configure wp-config.php.
- Run the WordPress installation.
Conclusion
Installing WordPress on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that allows you to create and test your website locally before going live. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, having a local WordPress environment can be extremely beneficial for testing changes, developing themes, and even learning how WordPress works.
Once you’ve set up WordPress on your local machine, you can easily tweak your site without any risk. Don’t forget to keep both XAMPP and WordPress updated to ensure you have the latest features and security enhancements.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring more resources on WordPress development, and happy blogging!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.