How to run a local web server for a site directly on Windows and OS X

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Do you have an idea for a cool website, a plan for its implementation, but at the same time you want to open the doors to visitors only when everything is really finished and tested? There is nothing easier, because a web server for a website can be launched directly on your computer, and the purchase of hosting can be postponed until the project is fully ready.

Today we will talk about a local web server available for both Windows and OS X. Moreover, its key feature is the presence of a simple and intuitive interface. You don't need to be a bearded administrator to run the server. It is enough just to thoughtfully read the instructions, and you can easily revive the local version of the site.

So, meet MAMP and MAMP PRO. The first one is free, but with stripped down features, which will still be enough for most of your needs. The second one is paid, it will cost 4,000 rubles. If, after reading, you decide to download MAMP or buy MAMP PRO, welcome to.

First, let's talk about the free version of MAMP, because that's the easiest way to get started with your local web server. Immediately after installation, you will have a working web server with Apache, MySQL and PHP.

After starting MAMP, you will see a simple menu of the most requested options. You can start or stop the web server, go to the main page of the web interface, or change any settings. You can configure the ports for Apache and MySQL, select the PHP version and specify the root folder of your project. In general, even with the default settings, you can start working.

The possibilities for customizing MAMP PRO are incomparably greater. Moreover, MAMP PRO is an add-on for free MAMP, so it can be installed at any time without harm to your current project. If you feel that the free version does not allow you to turn around, then moving will not be a hassle.

Now let's quickly go over the differences between MAMP PRO.

The developers rely on additional security and recommend running the web server in MAMP PRO under the www / mysql entry. This is especially true if the computer is constantly connected to the Internet. The full version also allows you to enable or disable individual Apache modules.

MySQL advanced options are also aimed at security. You can set or change the MySQL master password, as well as restrict external access to your database. Also error logs are available for both Apache and MySQL, which can be useful. It is noteworthy that the phpMyAdmin interface is completely Russified in MAMP PRO, but the free version cannot boast of this.

The full version of the web server has Dynamic DNS support. It is possible to match the site name and your current IP address. In addition, there is support from the providers dyndns.com and easydns.com. It is enough to have an account with one of them to take advantage of Dynamic DNS support.

MAMP PRO will allow you to configure the sending of letters from your local web server, if the need arises.

The paid version also features the ability to create an unlimited number of hosts with a minimum of effort. In other words, you can run multiple sites at the same time. Free MAMP is limited to just one.

MAMP and MAMP PRO are the most user-friendly local web server solutions. A clear interface and detailed documentation will allow you to quickly understand all the intricacies. The need for an expensive paid version can arise if your work on a site or several resources goes beyond mere curiosity. It is a serious tool for web developers.