Introduction

Whether you’re building a website for learning, testing, or launching a real business, the first step is installing WordPress. This blog will walk you through two methods: installing WordPress locally on your computer (for testing and development) and installing it on a live web hosting server (for launching your site online).

Let’s explore both methods step-by-step.

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Method 1: Installing WordPress on Localhost

Installing WordPress locally is ideal for beginners and developers who want to test things without going live.

Step 1: Install a Local Server Environment

You’ll need software that mimics a web server on your computer. Popular options:

• 🖥️ XAMPP (Windows, macOS, Linux)
• 💻 MAMP (macOS)
• 🐘 LocalWP (user-friendly for beginners)

Step 2: Download WordPress

Go to wordpress.org and download the latest version of WordPress.

Step 3: Set Up the Project Folder

Extract the WordPress zip file into the htdocs folder (XAMPP) or relevant directory for your server.

Step 4: Create a Database

• Go to http://localhost/phpmyadmin
• Click on “Databases” and create a new database (e.g., my_website)

Step 5: Run the WordPress Installer

• Visit http://localhost/your-folder-name
• Follow the on-screen instructions:
  • Choose language
  • Enter database info
  • Set up admin credentials

✅ Done! WordPress is now installed locally.

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Method 2: Installing WordPress on Web Hosting

This is how you make your website available to the public.

Step 1: Buy a Domain & Hosting

Choose a reliable hosting provider like:

• Bluehost
• Hostinger
• SiteGround
• Namecheap

Most hosts offer 1-click WordPress installation.

Step 2: Access Your Hosting Control Panel (cPanel)

Login to your hosting account and go to cPanel (or dashboard).

Step 3: Use Softaculous or WordPress Installer

• Click on “WordPress” under auto-installer tools like Softaculous
• Choose your domain, enter site info, and click “Install”

✅ WordPress will be installed in minutes and ready for customization.

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Manual Installation (Optional Advanced Method)

If you prefer to install WordPress manually:

1. Upload WordPress files via FTP to your hosting server.
2. Create a database using cPanel > MySQL Databases.
3. Run the installer via your domain name (e.g., www.yourdomain.com).

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Tips After Installation

• Login to your admin panel via /wp-admin (e.g., www.example.com/wp-admin)
• Choose a theme and install plugins
• Set up your homepage and menu
• Configure SEO with plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math

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Conclusion

Installing WordPress is the first exciting step toward building your dream website. Whether you’re working offline with localhost or publishing online through hosting, the process is simple and beginner-friendly. Pick the method that suits your needs and start creating today!

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