Running Apache Dev/Test server locally

Question

Is there any way that I can set up Apache to run locally, specifically NOT connecting to the internet, so that it may serve dynamic content (PHP) over a LAN?

I'm trying to set up a development environment on my Windows XP SP3 box and gain some experience with building web PHP driven web applications. I have residential Rogers service, and it's a violation of the TOS to have a server running over that connection.

Answer 1

Umm yes. Just download apache and fire it up. The only way it's going to get to the outside is if you specifically open up ports in your firewall/router to let http traffic in and route it to your machine. And if you're serious about getting some experience, ditch XP and get a quality linux distro on your "development" box. You can always remote desktop or ssh to it from a windows machine if you feel more comfortable that way.

My experience has been that many hosting companies use CentOs for their client servers, so I'd recommend trying that first if the purpose is gaining useful experience.

Oh by the way, Linux happens to be free.

Answer 2

You can use WAMP. It installs everything you'll need to get a testing server up and running in minutes

Answer 3

Using a packaged solution like WAMP or XAMPP will provide you with the basics for setting up an Apache web server + PHP + MySQL + the phpMyAdmin interface for working with MySQL outside of the command line.