XAMPP is a powerful tool for web developers, and learning it well can help you succeed in building and testing websites locally. Here is a curated guide to help you get started, as well as some top resources you can consider as an alternative to a dedicated blog course.
What a XAMPP full course might include
A full XAMPP course will likely cover the following topics, progressing from beginner to advanced concepts:
1. What does XAMPP mean
XAMPP is a free and open-source software used to setup web servers on a local computer. Its full name is X (Cross-Platform), Apache, MariaDB, PHP, and Perl.
It comes as a package, allowing developers to easily develop and test websites or web applications on localhost.
Key Components of XAMPP
Apache – This is the web server, which processes HTTP requests.
MariaDB (formerly MySQL) – It is a database management system.
PHP – It is a server-side scripting language used to create dynamic web pages.
Perl – It is a programming language used in certain types of web applications.
phpMyAdmin – It is a graphical interface that lets you easily manage databases.
Why use XAMPP?
1. To develop websites on localhost :- To test web applications without internet, To run and test PHP and MySQL based projects Easily installable and usable
2. Installation and setup :-
Downloading XAMPP from the official site (Apache Friends or SourceForge). Step-by-step installation on Windows, macOS or Linux. Configuring Apache, MySQL and PHP settings.
3. Basic usage :- Starting and stopping services through XAMPP control panel. Running your first PHP file in the `htdocs` folder. Accessing phpMyAdmin to manage the database.
4. Creating the Project :-
Creating a simple website with HTML, CSS and PHP. Setting up a MySQL database and connecting to it with PHP. Examples like a login system or a basic CMS.
5. Advanced Features :- Configuring virtual hosts for multiple projects. Using Perl for scripting tasks. Installing additional tools such as WordPress or Joomla via Bitnami.
6. Troubleshooting :- Fixing common issues (e.g., port conflicts, permissions). Backing up and restoring databases.
7. Transitioning to Production :- Best practices for moving from a local XAMPP setup to a live server, Top Resources for Learning XAMPP,
Since no single blog offers a “complete course” in one post, here are some of the best options from across the web that collectively cover the above topics:
1. Udemy Blog: “XAMPP Tutorial: How to Use XAMPP to Run Your Own Web Server” A beginner-friendly guide with clear steps for installation, running PHP, and exploring MySQL. Key Features:
Explains Apache, MySQL, PHP, and Perl components with practical examples. Best for: Getting started quickly.
2. Studyopedia : "XAMPP Tutorial"
Covers installation, database creation, and basic PHP scripting, Highlights : Simple explanations with a focus on cross-platform use, Best for: Understanding the basics of XAMPP's stack.
3. Class Central : "30+ XAMPP Online Courses for 2025"
List of free and paid courses from platforms like the University of Michigan and others. Highlights : Includes specific tutorials like setting up WordPress locally with XAMPP or mastering SQL with XAMPP. Best for: Structured learning beyond a sing
4. Tpoint Tech : "XAMPP Tutorial" :- - Detailed lessons on installing WordPress, creating a login page, and managing the control panel. Highlights : Practical examples like creating a login system.
Best for: Practical project ideas.
5. IoT Academy : "What is XAMPP Server | How to Download, Install, and Use it?" A concise guide on setup and usage with a focus on web development. Key Features: Clearly explains each component (Apache, MySQL, PHP, Perl).
Best For: A quick but thorough overview.
Recommendation
For a blog-style experience, I would suggest starting with the Udemy Blog tutorial for its simplicity and then supplementing it with Tpoint Tech for practical projects. If you prefer a more structured approach, explore
the free courses listed on Class Central, such as "Learn to set up and manage WordPress locally using XAMPP on Windows."