Run a Webserver on Your Computer

Started by DeveloperOnRent, Aug 12, 2022, 05:10 AM

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DeveloperOnRentTopic starter

If you have an idea for a website and want to wait until it is finished and tested before allowing visitors, you can run a webserver on your computer and delay the purchase of hosting.



MAMP and MAMP PRO are local web servers that are available for both Windows and OS X and boast simple and intuitive interfaces, even for those without a technical background.
The free version of MAMP provides a working web server with Apache, MySQL, and PHP immediately after installation. MAMP PRO, which is worth $500, offers more advanced options such as increased security, individual Apache module control, advanced MySQL options, error logs, dynamic DNS support, email sending capabilities, and the ability to create multiple sites at the same time. Free MAMP is limited to just one.

A clear interface and detailed documentation make MAMP and MAMP PRO the ideal solutions for local web servers. The paid version may be required if you are a serious web developer whose work goes beyond mere curiosity.
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ACKET

After working with Vagrant or MAMP, switching to Laravel Valet + MySQL via Brew and Sequel Pro as the visual client on a Mac feels like a breath of fresh air.
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merlinraj

If you're a .NET programmer on Windows, it's recommended to use OpenServer as it provides significantly more tools and options than paid MAMP PRO. It's hard to justify the cost of MAMP PRO when OpenServer is available.

On a Mac, PHP and Apache come pre-installed, making setup simple. All you need to do is type `php -S localhost` in the correct folder and your web server is up and running. Additionally, installing Brew will allow you to easily add any necessary tools.

In general, it is advisable to use Vagrant on both operating systems. The convenience of pre-made LAMP images cannot be overstated.
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chirkovmisha

If you want to run a local server on a Windows PC, some program settings or the operating system settings will have to be adjusted. In order for servers to work, port 80 must be freed up as it's often occupied by Internet Information Services (IIS).

To check if port 80 is occupied by a system process, simply enter the command "netstat -aon | findstr 0.0:80" in the dialog box. If the value "4" appears in the last column, then port 80 is indeed taken up by IIS.

To disable IIS, go to Control Panel and select "Programs and Features". From there, click on "Turn Windows features on or off" and uncheck the box next to "IIS". Save the changes and reboot the system if prompted to do so.
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orlandouriel

Running a web server on your computer using MAMP or MAMP PRO can be a great solution if you want to develop and test a website before launching it to the public. MAMP provides a basic web server setup with Apache, MySQL, and PHP, while MAMP PRO offers additional advanced features for more experienced web developers.

The choice between the free version of MAMP and the paid MAMP PRO depends on your specific needs. If you're just starting out or working on small personal projects, the free version should suffice. However, if you require enhanced security, more control over Apache modules and MySQL settings, access to error logs, email sending capabilities, or the ability to work on multiple sites simultaneously, upgrading to MAMP PRO may be worth considering.

Both versions of MAMP have user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive documentation, making them suitable options for individuals without a technical background as well.
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