How to Install WordPress on Localhost (Step-by-Step Guide)
Want to build a WordPress site without paying for a domain or hosting? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a developer, a blogger, or just a curious tinkerer, learning how to install WordPress on localhost is a total game-changer—and it’s easier than you think.
This guide from Digital Janit walks you through the entire process from scratch, using plain English and real-world steps you can follow right now.
Introduction
Installing WordPress on localhost means you’re setting it up on your own computer, not on the internet. It’s like building your dream home in a secret location before showing it off to the world.
What is Localhost and Why Use It?
Localhost is simply a web server that runs on your own PC. It’s like having a private version of the internet just for you.
Benefits of a Local Development Environment
- It’s free: No need to buy hosting or a domain.
- It’s fast: No internet lag; changes happen instantly.
- It’s private: Perfect for testing or developing without the public eye.
- It’s safe: Break stuff without consequences—total freedom!
When Should You Use Localhost?
- Developing a new WordPress theme or plugin
- Practicing WordPress without going live
- Testing updates or changes safely
- Designing client projects before deployment
What You Need Before Installation
Before we dive in, make sure you’ve got the right tools.
Basic Requirements
- A PC or Mac with at least 4GB RAM
- Admin access to install software
- A browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)
Recommended Software Tools
To run WordPress locally, you’ll need:
- A local server environment like XAMPP, MAMP, or LocalWP
- The latest version of WordPress (free from wordpress.org)
Choosing a Local Server Environment
Let’s quickly look at your options.
XAMPP
Best for Windows and cross-platform users. It comes bundled with Apache, PHP, and MySQL—everything you need to run WordPress locally.
MAMP
Great for Mac users. It offers a clean interface and easy switching between PHP versions.
LocalWP (Formerly Local by Flywheel)
Perfect for beginners. Super user-friendly and requires zero setup.
We’ll use XAMPP in this tutorial because it’s the most popular.
Step-by-Step: Installing XAMPP
Downloading XAMPP
- Visit apachefriends.org
- Choose the version for your OS (Windows/Linux/Mac)
- Click Download
That’s it—your local server is live!
Creating a Database for WordPress
Using phpMyAdmin
- In your browser, go to http://localhost/phpmyadmin
- Click on Databases
- Enter a name for your database (e.g., wordpress_local)
- Click Create
Boom. You’ve got your database.
Naming and Setting Up the DB
Stick to lowercase letters and no spaces. It’ll save you headaches later.
Downloading and Configuring WordPress
Getting WordPress from the Official Site
- Head over to wordpress.org
- Click Download WordPress
- You’ll get a .zip file—unzip it.
Placing WordPress in the Correct Folder
- Go to your XAMPP installation (usually C:\xampp\htdocs)
- Create a new folder like mytestsite
- Copy all the WordPress files into that folder
Editing the wp-config.php File
- Find wp-config-sample.php and rename it to wp-config.php
- Open it and update these lines:
php
define(‘DB_NAME’, ‘wordpress_local’);
define(‘DB_USER’, ‘root’);
define(‘DB_PASSWORD’, ”);
define(‘DB_HOST’, ‘localhost’);
Save it. You’re ready to roll.
Running the WordPress Installer
Accessing via localhost/your-folder-name
Open your browser and go to:
http://localhost/mytestsite
You’ll see the WordPress setup wizard.
Setting Site Title, Username & Password
- Choose your Site Title
- Pick a Username and Password (keep it simple)
- Enter your email
- Click Install WordPress
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Port Conflicts
If Apache won’t start, another app (like Skype) might be using port 80. Change Apache’s port to 8080 via the config panel.
Database Connection Errors
Check your wp-config.php settings. Make sure:
- Database name matches
- Username is root
- Password is blank (on XAMPP)
Tips for Using WordPress on Localhost Effectively
Backup and Sync Best Practices
Even local sites need backups. Use tools like:
- UpdraftPlus
- All-in-One WP Migration (also great for moving to live)
Working with Themes and Plugins Locally
Test new themes and plugins here before using them on your live site. It saves your real site from any drama.
Migrating from Localhost to Live Server
Ready to go live? You’ve got two main options.
Using a Plugin (All-in-One WP Migration, Duplicator)
- Export the site on localhost
- Install WordPress on your live host
- Import the file using the plugin
Manual Migration Steps
- Upload all files via FTP
- Export your database and import it via phpMyAdmin on your live host
- Update wp-config.php with new DB details
- Fix URLs using a tool like Better Search Replace
Conclusion
Installing WordPress on localhost is a must-know skill for any web enthusiast. It’s free, fast, and gives you full control over your development process. Whether you’re learning the ropes or building a client project, localhost is your safe playground to experiment.
