Installing WordPress (Localhost & Web Hosting)
Two Environments, Two Purposes
Before your site goes live, it's common practice to install WordPress on a local computer (localhost) first. This lets you experiment safely, test themes and plugins, and build a design without affecting a live audience.
Once you're happy with the setup, the same skills transfer to installing WordPress on a live web hosting account, which is what your visitors will actually see.
Installing on Localhost
- Use local server software such as XAMPP, WAMP, or Local by Flywheel to run PHP and MySQL on your own machine.
- Create a database, download the WordPress package from wordpress.org, extract it into your server folder, and run the installer through your browser.
- Complete the setup wizard by entering your database details, site title, admin username, and password.
Installing on Web Hosting
Most hosting providers offer a one-click WordPress installer inside their control panel, which automatically creates the database and files for you.
If your host doesn't offer one-click install, you can upload the WordPress files via FTP and run the same browser-based installer used on localhost.
| Step | Localhost | Web Hosting |
|---|---|---|
| Software needed | XAMPP/WAMP/Local | Hosting control panel |
| Database setup | Manual, via phpMyAdmin | Often automatic |
| File upload | Copy to local server folder | Upload via FTP or one-click installer |
| Visible to public | No | Yes |
Installing WordPress is only half the equation — you also need the right web host and domain name to support it long-term.
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