XAMPP for Windows: Apache, MariaDB and PHP in One Installer
XAMPP · for Windows
Developer: Apache Friends (opens in a new tab)
- Windows
The download link points to the program’s official source; the file is not hosted on this site. Link address: apachefriends.org
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XAMPP is a free Apache distribution from Apache Friends that bundles MariaDB, PHP and Perl. Its download page currently offers 64-bit Windows installers for several PHP versions; it is meant for development, not production.
Before changing a live website, many developers and WordPress users test on their own computer. XAMPP sets up the classic server stack in one installer, so you can run PHP sites locally without configuring each piece by hand.
What is in the bundle
- Apache web server
- MariaDB database server
- PHP for running PHP applications such as WordPress
- Perl
Choosing a download
- The Download button opens the official download page on apachefriends.org.
- The page lists several 64-bit Windows installers, each tied to a PHP version. Pick the one that matches the PHP version your live host uses, so your tests behave the same way.
- Run the installer, then open the XAMPP Control Panel and start Apache and MySQL (MariaDB).
The current download page lists Windows builds only; Apache Friends says new Linux and macOS versions are coming. Windows XP and Server 2003 are not supported.
Development only
The XAMPP FAQ is clear: XAMPP is not meant for production use, only for development environments. Out of the box several security measures are missing; for example, the MySQL administrator (root) has no password. Secure it before anything on it is reachable from the internet.
A code editor such as Visual Studio Code pairs well with XAMPP. If you want automatic virtual hosts and SSL, look at Laragon.
Pros
- Apache, MariaDB, PHP and Perl in one installer
- Several PHP versions to match your host
- Free
Cons
- Insecure defaults; development use only
- The current download page offers Windows builds only
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use XAMPP to host a live website?
Apache Friends says XAMPP is not meant for production use, only for development. Some security settings are left open by default, such as a MySQL root account with no password.
Is XAMPP free?
Yes. Apache Friends describes it as a completely free Apache distribution containing MariaDB, PHP and Perl.
XAMPPFree
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