Local by WP Engine: Build WordPress Sites on Your Computer
Local · for Windows, macOS and Linux
Developer: WP Engine (opens in a new tab)
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
The download link points to the program’s official source; the file is not hosted on this site. Link address: localwp.com
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Local is a free local WordPress development app from WP Engine for Windows 10/11, macOS Monterey or later and Debian-based Linux. It needs at least 4 GB of RAM and 1.5 GB of disk space.
Local is built for one job: running WordPress on your own machine. Theme developers, agencies and site owners use it to try plugins, build new designs or debug a problem without touching the live site.
What Local offers
- Local WordPress sites: Create a site on your computer and work on it offline.
- Live Links: Share a temporary link so a client or colleague can preview your local site.
- Connect: Move sites between Local and supported hosting.
- Cloud Backups, Image Optimizer and add-ons: Extra tools listed on the official site.
Requirements
- macOS: Monterey (12) or later. Older macOS versions can use Local 9.0.5.
- Windows: Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11. Windows 7 and 8.x users can use Local 7.2.1.
- Linux: A .deb build tested on Ubuntu and Pop!_OS; other Debian-based distributions may work but are not tested.
- At least 4 GB of RAM and 1.5 GB of disk space, more for large sites.
Installing Local
- The Download button opens the official Local website; download is free.
- On macOS, open the .dmg and move Local to Applications. On Windows, run the installer.
- When you create your first site on Windows, Windows Defender Firewall may ask for permission; click Allow access on each prompt.
- On Linux, open the .deb file in your package manager or install it with apt.
If you would rather install WordPress yourself on a server or another local stack, start with the WordPress download. To upload files to a live host, FileZilla is a common companion.
Pros
- Made specifically for WordPress
- Live Links for sharing previews
- Free on Windows, macOS and Linux
Cons
- Focused on WordPress rather than general PHP work
- Linux build tested only on Ubuntu and Pop!_OS
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Local free?
Yes, Local is a free download. WP Engine also sells WordPress hosting, but that is a separate product.
Why does Windows show firewall pop-ups when I create a site in Local?
Local's services need network access. The official guide says to click Allow access on each Windows Defender prompt, or allow them later under Allowed Apps in Windows Defender Firewall.
LocalFree
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