testing php and mysql

[spnwebdesign]

hey all

i have decided to start learning php and mysql

however, is there a way to preview what you are doing without having to upload it to the internet?

[Toon]

set up a development environment on your local computer. This basically means installing a web server (most likely Apache), PHP, and if needed a database (like MySQL) on your computer. Not only does this allow you to completely test your work on your local computer but it will definitely boost your knowledge of installing and configuring PHP.

- Apache web server (Welcome! - The Apache HTTP Server Project)
- PHP (PHP: Downloads)
- MySQL (MySQL AB :: MySQL Product Archives)

Also for instructions on installing PHP check out:
- PHP: Installation and Configuration - Manual
[1]EditPlus Text Editor, HTML Editor, Programmers Editor for Windows - Features
[2]PHPEdit
[3]PHP Expert Editor
[4]PHP Editor Review - PHP IDE

PHP3: PHP Preview

[LeadMagnet]

As a shortcut, i was told about this little gem recently by one of my college lecturers:
Install PHP 5 Apache MySQL on Windows : WampServer << For windows

It's a standalone webserver + php server + mysql etc. I haven't tested it yet.... i think i will now actually now that you reminded me about it.

Here's the mac equivalent >> living-e AG: MAMP - Mac - Apache - MySQL - PHP
Some reading material >> LAMP & - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

*edit* Tested it, easy installation, no configuration needed, works straight off the bat. You can still edit your php.ini and all that as before of course. This is far less painful for a beginner to learn php than the traditional route.

*edit2* link fixed, cheers

[tommylogic]

broken link Lead...

LAMP (software bundle)

[LeadMagnet]

cheers, sorted

[LeadMagnet]

I just noticed that the wamp interface doesn't work properly in 64bit systems, so here's an alternative that works just as well and has some extra features too.
apache friends - xampp

[flick]

this book is brilliant:
Sams Publishing - 0672328739 - Sams Teach Yourself PHP, MySQL and Apache: All in One, Third Edition
it incorporate's php, mysql and apache too (which is also a massively useful thing to know lots about)