How to Install WordPress on XAMPP Localhost: Complete Step-by-Step Tutorial

If you want to build or test a WordPress website without buying hosting or a domain, installing WordPress on XAMPP localhost is the best solution. It’s fast, free, and perfect for beginners, developers, or anyone who wants to test themes, plugins, or custom features safely.
In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn exactly how to install WordPress on XAMPP on your local computer.

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What Is XAMPP?

XAMPP is a free, open-source software that provides:

• Apache (server)
• MySQL (database)
• PHP
• phpMyAdmin

These tools allow you to run WordPress locally on your Windows, macOS, or Linux computer without internet hosting.

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Why Install WordPress on XAMPP?

Installing WordPress on XAMPP is beneficial because:

• ✔️ 100% free environment
• ✔️ No hosting required
• ✔️ Safe testing for themes, plugins, and custom code
• ✔️ Fast development and debugging
• ✔️ Works offline anytime

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How to Install WordPress on XAMPP Localhost (2026 Guide)

Follow the steps below to set up WordPress on your computer.

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Step 1: Download and Install XAMPP

1. Visit the official Apache Friends website.
2. Download XAMPP for your operating system (Windows/Mac/Linux).
3. Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
4. After installation, open the XAMPP Control Panel.

Start the Required Services

• Click Start for Apache
• Click Start for MySQL

Both should turn green, meaning they are running.

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Step 2: Download WordPress

1. Go to the official WordPress.org website.
2. Download the latest WordPress zip file.
3. Extract the folder to a safe location on your computer.

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Step 3: Move WordPress Into XAMPP htdocs

1. Navigate to the XAMPP installation folder:
   • On Windows: C:/xampp/htdocs/
2. Paste the extracted wordpress folder here.
3. Rename the folder to your local site name (optional), e.g.:
   mywebsite

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Step 4: Create a Database in phpMyAdmin

1. Open any browser and visit:
   http://localhost/phpmyadmin/
2. Click on Databases.
3. Enter a name for your WordPress database (e.g., mydb).
4. Click Create.

Your database is now ready.

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Step 5: Install WordPress on Localhost

Now it’s time to start the WordPress installation.

1. Open your browser and visit:
   http://localhost/mywebsite/
2. Select your preferred language.
3. Click Let’s Go.

Enter Your Database Details

• Database Name: your created database
• Username: root
• Password: (leave empty)
• Database Host: localhost
• Table Prefix: wp_

Click Submit, then Run the Installation.

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Step 6: Configure WordPress Setup

Fill in your WordPress site details:

• Site Title
• Username
• Password
• Admin Email

Click Install WordPress.

After a few seconds, your WordPress site will be ready on localhost.

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Step 7: Login to Your Local WordPress Dashboard

Visit your login page:

http://localhost/mywebsite/wp-admin/

Enter your username and password to access the dashboard.

You now have a fully working WordPress website installed on XAMPP!

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Common Errors & Solutions

1. Apache Not Starting (Port 80 Error)

• Skype, IIS, or another service may be using Port 80.
  Fix: Change Apache port to 8080 in XAMPP settings.

2. Database Connection Error

• Wrong database name, username, or password.
  Fix: Use:
• Username: root
• Password: empty

3. Blank Page / White Screen

• PHP version mismatch or plugin/theme conflict.
  Fix: Increase PHP memory or enable debugging.

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Tips for Better Local Development

• Always enable pretty permalinks.
• Create multiple sites using different folders in htdocs.
• Backup your local projects regularlyInstall WordPress On XAMPP Localhost.
• Clone your localhost site to live hosting using plugins like Duplicator or All-in-One Migration.