How to Set Up a Web Server with a Live Domain Name in XAMPP


Setting up your own web server is much easier than you might think! In just 7 simple steps, you can host your website using XAMPP with a live domain name. Let’s dive into the details to help you get your site up and running!


Introduction

Ever wondered how to get your website live with a domain name using XAMPP? You’re in the right place! With just a few steps, you can transform your computer into a local web server and link it to a live domain name. Here’s a quick guide that breaks it all down into manageable steps.


1. Install XAMPP on Your Computer

To start, download and install XAMPP, a popular software that combines Apache (the web server), MySQL (the database), and PHP (the scripting language). XAMPP turns your computer into a server environment where you can test and run your website locally.

Pro tip: Always download the latest version of XAMPP from the official site to ensure compatibility with your software.


2. Register a Domain Name

Next, you’ll need a live domain name for your website. Many domain registrars are available, such as Kenya Website Experts and HostPinnacle. Choose a domain that reflects your website’s purpose.

Pro tip: For affordability, consider Truehost or Domain Racer for great deals.


3. Point Your Domain to Your Local Server

Once you’ve registered your domain, the next step is pointing the domain to your local machine. This requires editing your system’s “hosts” file.

Here’s how:

  • Go to the directory C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.

  • Open the "hosts" file using a text editor like Notepad.

  • Add a new line with your local IP address (usually 127.0.0.1) followed by your domain name:

    127.0.0.1 mywebsite.com

Pro tip: This method only works locally. To allow others to access your site, you’ll need to configure DNS settings with your domain registrar.


4. Create Virtual Hosts in XAMPP

For each domain or website, you need to create a Virtual Host entry in XAMPP. This will map the domain to the appropriate folder on your local server.

  1. Open the httpd-vhosts.conf file located in C:\xampp\apache\conf\extra.
  2. Add a new entry like this:
<VirtualHost *:80>
  DocumentRoot "C:/xampp/htdocs/mywebsite"
  ServerName mywebsite.com
</VirtualHost>
  1. Save the file and restart Apache from the XAMPP control panel.

5. Test Your Domain Locally

Now, open your browser and type mywebsite.com in the address bar. If everything is configured correctly, you’ll see your site running from XAMPP!


6. Upload Your Website Files

Place your website files inside the folder you specified in the VirtualHost entry (e.g., C:/xampp/htdocs/mywebsite). These are the files that will be served when your domain is accessed.

Pro tip: Use TMD Hosting or Hostinger for easy hosting of live sites when you’re ready to go beyond XAMPP.


7. Go Live (Optional)

If you want to make your site accessible over the internet, consider moving from XAMPP to a live hosting provider like A2 Hosting or InterServer. These services offer professional web hosting for broader accessibility.


Conclusion

Setting up a web server with a live domain name using XAMPP isn’t just for professionals—it’s something anyone can do! By following these 7 easy steps, you’ll have your website live locally or on the internet.


Have you tried hosting a website locally? What challenges did you face, and how did you solve them? Let us know in the comments!


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